COURSE OVERVIEW:

The Advanced ISM Code, Lead Auditor and DPA Roles course is a high-level training program tailored for maritime professionals who bear the responsibility for safety management and regulatory compliance. This course provides an exhaustive analysis of the International Safety Management (ISM) Code, focusing on the strategic and operational implementation of Safety Management Systems (SMS). It goes beyond basic compliance to explore the methodologies for driving a proactive safety culture within shipping companies and aboard vessels.

A significant portion of the program is dedicated to the critical role of the Designated Person Ashore (DPA). Participants will examine the legal and operational framework that empowers the DPA to bridge the gap between ship and shore, ensuring that safety resources are allocated and that direct access to top management is maintained. The course details the DPA’s duties in monitoring safety performance, analyzing near-misses, and spearheading emergency response efforts, providing the tools necessary to fulfill this vital role effectively and legally.

Furthermore, the course provides intensive training in Lead Auditor skills, aligning with ISO 19011 standards. Attendees will master the art of conducting internal and external audits, from planning and opening meetings to identifying non-conformities and verifying corrective actions. By integrating risk management and root cause analysis, the program ensures that auditors can evaluate the effectiveness of an SMS rather than just its documentation. This comprehensive approach prepares leaders to manage maritime risks and maintain organizational resilience in an evolving regulatory landscape.

COURSE OBJECTIVES:

After completion of this course, the participants will be able to:

1. Interpret the ISM Code in the context of the latest IMO amendments and industry trends.
2. Define the legal liabilities and statutory requirements of the Designated Person Ashore (DPA).
3. Establish a robust Safety Management System (SMS) that prioritizes risk-based thinking.
4. Lead multi-disciplinary audit teams in complex maritime environments.
5. Plan, prepare, and execute ISM audits in accordance with ISO 19011 guidelines.
6. Conduct effective interviews and gather objective evidence during safety audits.
7. Identify Major Non-Conformities and assess their impact on seaworthiness.
8. Perform detailed Root Cause Analysis (RCA) for safety incidents and audit findings.
9. Evaluate the effectiveness of Corrective and Preventive Actions (CAPA).
10. Manage the interface between the ship’s crew and corporate management.
11. Monitor Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to track safety and environmental trends.
12. Facilitate the annual Management Review of the Safety Management System.
13. Drive a "Just Culture" and enhance safety awareness across the organization.

TARGET AUDIENCE:  

Designated Persons Ashore (DPAs), Marine Superintendents, Ship Owners, Lead Auditors, Quality Managers, and Senior Ship Officers.

TRAINING COURSE METHODOLOGY:

A highly interactive combination of lectures, discussion sessions, and case studies will be employed to maximise the transfer of information, knowledge, and experience. The course will be intensive, practical, and highly interactive. The sessions will start by raising the most relevant questions and motivating everybody to find the right answers. The attendants will also be encouraged to raise more of their questions and to share in developing the right answers using their analysis and experience. There will also be some indoor experiential activities to enhance the learning experience. Course material will be provided in PowerPoint, with necessary animations, learning videos, and general discussions.

The course participants shall be evaluated before, during, and at the end of the course.

COURSE CERTIFICATE:

National Consultant Centre for Training LLC (NCC) will issue an Attendance Certificate to all participants completing a minimum of 80% of the total attendance time requirement.