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Advanced ISM Code, Lead Auditor & DPA Roles

Master ISM Code Compliance, Lead Auditor Skills, and DPA Responsibilities

Advanced ISM Code, Lead Auditor & DPA Roles

Course Schedule

Classroom

Online

No online dates are currently available.

Training Introduction

The Advanced ISM Code, Lead Auditor & DPA Roles training course is designed to provide maritime professionals with in-depth knowledge of the International Safety Management (ISM) Code, Lead Auditor responsibilities, and the Designated Person Ashore (DPA) role. Developed by ISM experts in line with IMO Guidelines MSC-MEPC.7/Circ.6, the course blends regulatory compliance requirements with practical insights from the shipping industry and legal considerations for DPAs.

Participants will gain the skills to implement, audit, and monitor Safety Management Systems (SMS), understand ISM Code compliance, and manage the responsibilities of a DPA. The course also provides comprehensive Lead Auditor training, covering planning, conducting, reporting, and following up on ISM audits. By completing this course, delegates will enhance operational safety, strengthen stakeholder confidence, and develop the competence required for ISM-related leadership roles.

Interactive case studies, scenario-based exercises, and practical simulations ensure participants can apply learning directly to real-world shipboard and shore-based operations. This course is ideal for shipping managers, auditors, DPAs, and officers seeking advanced knowledge of the ISM Code and practical competence in audits and SMS management.

Key Focus Areas of this Course:

  • Comprehensive understanding of the ISM Code, its objectives, and operational benefits.
  • Roles and responsibilities of the Designated Person Ashore (DPA).
  • Lead Auditor principles, techniques, and audit lifecycle management.
  • Safety Management System (SMS) development, implementation, and continuous improvement.
  • ISM Code compliance, certification, verification, and regulatory obligations.
  • Incident investigation, corrective and preventive action planning, and risk management.
  • Emergency preparedness, crisis management, and communication between ship and shore.
  • Practical exercises, scenario simulations, and case studies to reinforce real-world application.

What are the goals?

This course equips participants with the knowledge and practical skills to implement and maintain ISM Code compliance, conduct audits, and fulfill the responsibilities of a DPA.

By the end of this training course, participants will be able to: 

  • Gain an in-depth understanding of the ISM Code, including objectives, functional requirements, and benefits.
  • Understand the legal and operational responsibilities of a DPA, including possible legal exposure.
  • Apply SMS principles to ensure compliance, continuous improvement, and effective risk management.
  • Conduct audits as a Lead Auditor, including planning, evidence collection, reporting, and follow-up.
  • Develop communication, observation, and conflict-handling skills for auditing and SMS oversight.
  • Implement and monitor corrective actions, incident investigations, and emergency response plans.
  • Understand related maritime regulations, including STCW 2010 and MLC 2006, to strengthen SMS effectiveness.
  • Enhance operational performance, stakeholder confidence, and safety culture across shipboard and shore-based operations.

Who is this Training Course for?

This course is suitable for maritime professionals responsible for safety, compliance, and operational management within shipping organizations.

This training course is suitable to a wide range of professionals but will greatly benefit: 

  • Shipping company management and team leaders
  • Personnel involved in SMS preparation, implementation, and compliance
  • ISM compliance officers and auditors
  • Marine superintendents and quality managers
  • DPAs and assistant DPAs
  • Deck and engine officers seeking DPA roles
  • Professionals participating in ISM audits or aspiring to become Lead Auditors
  • Management representatives and personnel responsible for regulatory compliance

How will this Training Course be Presented?

The course uses a blend of instructor-led lectures, interactive discussions, scenario-based exercises, and practical simulations to ensure maximum engagement and knowledge retention. Participants will receive comprehensive course manuals, session PowerPoint presentations, and handouts for ongoing reference.

Practical exercises include mock ISM audits, DPA role simulations, emergency response drills, and group discussions. These activities reinforce the application of SMS, audit principles, and DPA responsibilities in real-world operational environments. Case studies and role-playing exercises allow delegates to practice decision-making, communication, and problem-solving skills, ensuring readiness for audit and DPA responsibilities onboard ships and ashore.

The Course Content

Day 1: Introduction to the ISM Code

Overview of the ISM Code

  • History and development
  • Objectives and functional requirements
  • ISM Code Requirements
  • Review of Safety Management System (SMS)

Structure of the ISM Code

  • General provisions
  • Safety management objectives
  • Company responsibilities and authority

Benefits of ISM Code Compliance

  • Enhanced safety and environmental protection
  • Improved operational efficiency

ISM Certification and Verification

  • Verification by Administrations or Recognized Organizations (ROs)
  • Certification & Periodical Verification (para 13 ISM Code)
  • Annual verification of Document of Compliance
  • Interim Certification requirements (para 14 ISM Code)

Day 2: Safety Management Systems (SMS)

Overview of the ISM Code

  • Objectives of an SMS

Components of SMS

  • Safety and Environmental Policy statements
  • Procedures and Manuals
  • Emergency preparedness
  • Reporting and Investigation of Non-Conformities

Developing and Maintaining SMS

  • Risk Assessment & Management
  • Defined Responsibilities and Authority
  • Continuous improvement processes

SMS Implementation & Certification

  • SMS and ISM Code Compliance
  • Benefits of an Effective SMS
  • Common Challenges and Solutions in SMS Implementation
  • Role of the Designated Person Ashore (DPA) in SMS
  • SMS Audits and Certification
  • SMS Continuous Improvement and Feedback Loop
  • Best Practices for SMS Effectiveness

Day 3: Lead Auditor Training

Understanding Audits

  • Types of audits: Internal, external, and third-party
  • Importance of audits for ISM Code compliance

Audit Phases

  • Planning and Preparing

Roles and Responsibilities of a Lead Auditor

  • Planning and preparation
  • Forming An Audit Team
  • Managing the audit team

Conducting an Audit

  • Opening meeting
  • Evidence collection techniques (interviews, document reviews, observations)
  • Closing meeting

Audit Reporting

  • Drafting the Audit Report
  • Non-conformity reporting
  • Corrective and preventive action follow-ups

Audit Skills Development

  • Communication and observation
  • Handling conflicts during audits

Day 4: Designated Person Ashore (DPA) Role

Understanding the Role of the DPA

  • Legal framework and ISM Code requirements

Key Competencies for a DPA

  • Leadership and decision-making
  • Effective communication and interpersonal skills

Monitoring and Auditing SMS Performance

  • Conducting Internal Audits and Inspections

Communication and Liaison

  • Acting as the link between the ship and shore
  • Ensuring the company’s SMS is effectively implemented
  • Liaising of External Audits and Regulatory Compliance

Incident Management

  • Investigating incidents and ensuring corrective actions
  • Post-Incident Recovery and Reporting under the ISM Code
  • Coordinating the response to incidents

Monitoring and Review

  • Evaluating SMS performance
  • Proactive identification of non-conformities

Emergency Preparedness and Crisis Management

  • Emergency Response Planning

Day 5: Practical Exercises and Case Studies

ISM Code Application

  • Scenario-based exercises on SMS implementation

Audit Simulation

  • Conducting a mock ISM audit with reporting
  • Role-Playing Exercises
  • Group discussions on audit approaches and challenges

DPA Practical Exercises and Case Studies

  • DPA Role Simulation
  • Coordinating a mock emergency as a DPA
  • Discussion on lessons learned and best practices

DPA Challenges

  • Handling real-world situations, such as emergencies and communication breakdowns

Providers and Associations

Anderson

Anderson

Aztech Training

Aztech Training

COPEX

COPEX

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers to common questions about this training course.

Absolutely. Coventry Academy provides customised in-house training solutions for organisations seeking a tailored learning experience. The Advanced ISM Code, Lead Auditor & DPA Roles training course can be adapted to reflect your organisation's objectives, industry requirements, operational challenges, and strategic priorities. Delivered exclusively for your team, customised training enables organisations to maximise relevance, encourage collaboration, and achieve targeted development outcomes. Our team will be pleased to discuss your requirements and develop a solution that aligns with your goals.

Absolutely! If you’re attending one of our courses at an international venue, we can help
with hotel reservations and entry visas. Just reach out to our Customer Service team:

  • Phone: +971 4 420 8304
  • Fax: +971 4 420 8304
  • Email: info@coventryacademy.com

No prior experience is required to attend the Advanced ISM Code, Lead Auditor & DPA Roles training course. The course is designed to accommodate participants from diverse professional backgrounds and varying levels of experience. While some familiarity with the subject matter may help participants gain additional value from certain discussions and activities, the course content is structured to ensure that both newcomers and experienced professionals can fully engage with the learning experience and benefit from the training.

Our dedicated support team is available to assist you with any questions regarding the Advanced ISM Code, Lead Auditor & DPA Roles training course, including course content, scheduling, registration, corporate bookings, and customised training solutions. We are committed to providing prompt and professional assistance throughout your learning journey.

📞 Phone: +971 58 840 7925

📧 Email: info@coventryacademy.com

🌐 Website: coventryacademy.com

Registering for a course is super easy! Here’s how you can do it:

  • Online: Pick your course, hit the "REGISTER" button, fill out the form, and
    submit it.
  • Email: Drop us a line with your details at info@coventryacademy.com.
  • Phone: Give us a call at +971 4 420 8304 to book your spot.
  • Fax: Fill in the booking form (you’ll find it in our brochures, flyers, or catalogue)
    and fax it to [+971 4 420 8304](tel:+97144208304).

The Advanced ISM Code, Lead Auditor & DPA Roles training course is designed to be practical, engaging, and highly interactive. Participants benefit from a dynamic learning environment that combines expert-led presentations, facilitated discussions, case studies, practical exercises, and collaborative learning activities. The focus is on developing knowledge that can be applied immediately within the workplace, ensuring participants gain both valuable insights and practical skills that support improved professional performance.

Your course fees cover:

  • For classroom courses: printed materials, lunch, and refreshments.
  • For online courses: all materials sent to you by email.
  • A certificate of completion or attendance.

You’ll need to make payment before the course starts. Here are your options:

  • Bank draft
  • Cash
  • Credit card
  • Wire transfer

Heads up: If we don’t receive payment before the course begins, we may have to deny
admission.

We delivers training courses in carefully selected professional venues that provide a comfortable and productive learning environment. Classroom-based courses are typically hosted in premium international venues with modern facilities and dedicated training spaces designed to support effective learning. Participants also benefit from a professional setting that encourages networking, collaboration, and knowledge sharing with peers from diverse industries and backgrounds.

The Advanced ISM Code, Lead Auditor & DPA Roles training course is designed for professionals seeking to strengthen their knowledge, enhance their capabilities, and achieve greater impact within their organisations. It is suitable for managers, supervisors, team leaders, technical specialists, consultants, and professionals at all career stages who wish to expand their expertise and stay current with industry developments. Whether you are looking to advance your career, improve workplace performance, or prepare for new responsibilities, this course provides valuable knowledge and practical insights to support your professional growth.

Our courses are led by top-notch international instructors. They’re not just academically qualified—they’ve also got years of real-world experience. They bring practical insights and deep knowledge to every session, making your learning experience truly valuable!

Yes. Participants who successfully complete the Advanced ISM Code, Lead Auditor & DPA Roles training course will receive a Coventry Academy Certificate of Completion, recognising their commitment to professional development and continuous learning. This certificate serves as formal evidence of participation and achievement and can support career progression, professional credibility, and ongoing development objectives. Where applicable, details regarding professional development credits or accreditation will be provided within the course information.

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