Refers to: Ship-owners, Operators, Masters and Managers of PHRS certified vessels

Action Date: Immediate

 1. SCOPE & PURPOSE

 This Newsletter aims to inform all concerned parties about the MMC-176 reviewed by PMA and recirculated to users of Panama flag.

The purpose of this Merchant Marine Circular (MMC-176) establishes the mandatory policy for the implementation of the International Safety Management (ISM) Code, in strict alignment with International Maritime Organization (IMO) guidelines. It provides a standardized framework for additional verifications to ensure that safety management systems are not merely documented, but are active and effective in identifying hazards and reducing risks to a level that is As Low As Reasonably Practicable (ALARP). Furthermore, it serves as a critical reminder to all stakeholders of their responsibility to maintain a proactive safety culture to achieve the Code’s objectives of maritime safety and pollution prevention.”

2. BACKROUND

The International Safety Management (ISM) Code was adopted by the Assembly of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) on 4 November 1993 through Resolution A.741 (18). It aims to foster the Safe Operation of Ships and for Pollution Prevention. The 1994 Amendments to the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974, included a new chapter "CHAPTER IX" - Management for the safe operation of ships, making the application of the Code mandatory to ships, regardless of the date of construction.

 For any questions or further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us at technical@phrs.gr or Panama’s Registry at segumar.headoffice@segumar.com