What should be included in the ship's safety management system?

The inclusion of risk assessments, safety procedures, and training requirements in a ship's safety management system is essential because these elements form the foundation of effective safety management and operational safety at sea.

Risk assessments are critical as they identify potential hazards and evaluate the risks associated with specific operations, allowing for proactive measures to be implemented to mitigate those risks. Establishing clear safety procedures is necessary to ensure that all crew members understand their responsibilities and the correct protocols to follow in various situations, reducing the likelihood of accidents. Training requirements ensure that crew members are adequately prepared to handle emergencies and operate equipment safely. Together, these components promote a culture of safety, compliance with regulations, and preparedness for emergencies, aligning with the international safety management code (ISM Code) requirements.

In contrast, while daily logs and crew schedules, navigation charts and port regulations, and insurance policies and crew contracts are important operational elements, they do not directly address the comprehensive safety management elements that are integral to ensuring safety aboard the vessel.