ISM Code 12.1 / ISPS Code / MLC 2006

ISM, ISPS & MLC internal audits and gap analysis

Independent internal audits that tell you exactly where your Safety Management System, security arrangements, and working conditions stand before a flag state surveyor or RO auditor arrives — with enough time to close the gaps.

Why internal audits matter

What these audits actually do

ISM Code Clause 12.1 requires companies to carry out internal safety audits to verify that safety and pollution-prevention activities comply with the Safety Management System. In practice, internal audits are most valuable when conducted by someone independent of the day-to-day operation — who can assess the SMS objectively rather than confirming what the team already believes about it. An honest internal audit surfaces real nonconformities before they become deficiencies in a statutory audit, a port state control inspection, or — worse — an incident.

ISM internal audit

Full audit of the Safety Management System against the ISM Code — both company (DOC) and ship (SMC) level. Identifies nonconformities, observations, and areas for improvement. Produces a formal audit report with findings and recommended close-out actions.

ISPS internal audit

Audit of the Ship Security Plan and its implementation against the ISPS Code requirements. Reviews the Ship Security Assessment, SSP currency, drill records, and security-related documentation. Findings reported against ISPS Code Part A requirements.

MLC 2006 audit

Review of working and living conditions, crew employment agreements, wages, hours of work and rest, crew accommodation, food and catering, medical care, and welfare against Maritime Labour Convention requirements. Identifies gaps before an MLC inspection.

Pre-certification support

Gap analysis and mock audits

Pre-certification gap analysis

Ahead of an initial ISM/ISPS/MLC certification, or before an annual/intermediate/renewal audit by an RO or flag state surveyor, a structured gap analysis maps your current position against the applicable code requirements — identifying what's in place, what's missing, and what needs updating before the statutory audit. Delivered as a written report with a prioritised action list and realistic close-out timelines.

Mock audit (full simulation)

A simulated statutory audit conducted in the same way an RO auditor would approach it — opening meeting, document review, crew interviews (where applicable), objective evidence assessment, and formal closing meeting with findings. Gives owners, operators, and captains a realistic experience of what to expect and confidence that the real audit will go smoothly.

Delivery options

Onboard or remote

Onboard attendance (FIFO)

Available to attend the vessel in person across New Zealand, Australia, and the South Pacific. Onboard presence is ideal for the full mock audit format and for vessels where document management is not fully digitalised. Travel costs covered by the client at cost, no markup.

Desktop / remote audit

Full SMS document review, gap analysis, and internal audit report production can be completed remotely from document sets shared via secure link or email. Suitable for vessels with a well-managed digital SMS. Faster turnaround than scheduling an onboard visit, and appropriate for most pre-certification gap-analysis engagements.