Panama: circular referring to ships subject to the ISM Code

This circular explains the policy for ships adhering to the ISM Code, with a focus on additional verifications in certain situations.

It highlights the significance of promptly addressing safety concerns.

Key Details:

The circular details the ISM Code's application to ships and emphasizes the role of the Flag State Administration in ensuring compliance.
Specific scenarios requiring additional verifications, such as Port State Control detentions, reactivation after operational interruptions, and reported deficiencies affecting ISM Code implementation, are outlined.
Procedures for addressing non-conformities, observations, accidents, and near-misses are described, encouraging companies to report and analyze these incidents for safety improvements.
The qualifications, training, and experience required for the Designated Person Ashore (DPA) role are explained, along with the need for companies to offer relevant training courses.
Instructions for obtaining endorsements for ISM Code Declarations, including Declarations of Company (DC) and Designated Person Ashore (DPA), are provided.
The circular addresses the challenges of managing multi-flagged fleets and recommends seeking agreements with Flag State Administrations to streamline processes.
Penalties for non-compliance with ISM Code requirements are highlighted, emphasizing the importance of adhering to safety standards.

This circular was issued on 1 September 2023.