Independent ISM, ISPS and MLC internal audits performed onboard commercial vessels and within shore-based management systems to verify compliance, assess implementation effectiveness and identify opportunities for continual improvement.
Audit attendance may be conducted as standalone audits or as harmonized verification activities combining ISM, ISPS and MLC requirements during a single attendance whenever operationally practical.
Compliance Verification & System Effectiveness
Internal audits are intended to assess the effective implementation of management systems, security procedures and maritime labour requirements in accordance with applicable statutory and company standards. Particular attention is given to practical implementation, operational effectiveness and the identification of non-conformities, observations and improvement opportunities.
ISM Internal Audits
ISM audits focus on the implementation and effectiveness of the Safety Management System (SMS), including operational procedures, maintenance systems, emergency preparedness, reporting processes, corrective actions and compliance with company safety objectives. Audit activities may include onboard verification, interviews and review of records supporting SMS implementation.
ISPS Internal Audits
ISPS audits focus on the implementation of ship security procedures, security awareness, records management, drills and exercises, restricted access controls and compliance with approved Ship Security Plans. Audit attendance may include verification of security measures and review of supporting documentation and records.
MLC Audits & Verifications
MLC audits focus on crew welfare, accommodation standards, working and living conditions, hours of work and rest, employment documentation and onboard implementation of Maritime Labour Convention requirements. Particular attention is given to practical compliance and crew-related observations identified during attendance.
Harmonized Audit Attendance
Whenever practical, ISM, ISPS and MLC audits may be performed during a single attendance in order to reduce operational disruption, optimise onboard time and provide a coordinated assessment of vessel compliance, management systems and operational practices.
Audit Findings & Reporting
Audit findings are documented through structured reporting including non-conformities, observations, positive findings and opportunities for improvement. Reporting is intended to support corrective actions, management review processes and continual improvement of onboard and shore-based management systems.
Related Services
Related services include PSC preparation inspections, Flag State inspection attendance and compliance-related assessments performed onboard commercial vessels throughout Spanish ports.
FAQs
Why are internal audits required?
Internal audits help verify the effective implementation of management systems, identify non-conformities and support continual improvement in accordance with statutory and company requirements.
Can ISM, ISPS and MLC audits be combined during one attendance?
Yes. Harmonized audit attendance is commonly performed to minimise operational disruption and optimise audit efficiency whenever vessel schedules and operational conditions allow.
Are audits limited to onboard attendance?
No. Depending on requirements, audits may include both onboard verification activities and review of shore-based management system elements.
What types of findings are commonly identified?
Audit findings may include procedural non-conformities, documentation deficiencies, implementation gaps, training observations, record-keeping issues and opportunities for improvement.
How long does an internal audit usually take?
Audit duration depends on vessel type, audit scope, company requirements and whether ISM, ISPS and MLC audits are performed individually or as a harmonized attendance.
How much does an internal audit cost?
Audit costs depend on audit scope, attendance duration, vessel location, reporting requirements and the number of standards included during attendance.