code_of_practice_V3_2019

4.15.6 The frequency of the inspections should be determined by the Operator in conjunction with the OEM Schedule
and Classification Society/Professional Bodies requirements, but every event should be planned and recorded.
4.15.7 A checklist could be employed as an aide-memoire for the inspection of equipment.
4.15.8 The Operator should identify equipment and technical systems, which, if subject to sudden operational failure,
may result in hazardous situations. The SMS should provide for specific measures aimed at promoting the
reliability of such equipment or systems. These measures should include the regular testing of stand-by/
reversionary arrangements and equipment or technical systems that are not in continuous use.
4.15.9 The inspections mentioned, as well as the measures referred to, should be integrated into the MASS operational
MMS.
4.16 REVIEW
4.16.1 Every management system has a cyclic approach and one of the key stages is review. This enables the Operator
to undertake a review of the MMS and SMS and determine its effectiveness and to develop areas for continuous
improvement and assurance that it is ‘fit for purpose’ and current in accordance with the latest legislation.
4.16.2 The ISM Code regulates and requires a review period for the safety system and award/retention of its certification.
The details of review are as follows:
n Document of Compliance - External audit of system every five years from date of initial issue and an Internal
Verification to be conducted by the Operator on an annual basis;
n Safety Management Certificate - External audit of system every five years from date of initial issue and an
Internal Verification to be conducted by the Operator between two to three years;
n The Operator should periodically evaluate the effectiveness of the SMS in accordance with procedures
established by the Company. The audits and possible corrective actions should be carried out in accordance
with documented procedures;
n Therefore, the Operator should carry out internal safety audits on board and ashore at intervals not exceeding
12 months to verify whether safety and pollution-prevention activities comply with the SMS;
n In exceptional circumstances, this interval may be exceeded by not more than 3 months, as agreed with the
Authority;
n Personnel carrying out audits should be independent of the areas being audited unless this is impracticable
due to the size and the nature of the Company;
n The results of the audits and reviews should be brought to the attention of all personnel having responsibility
in the area involved;
n The management personnel responsible for the area involved should take timely corrective action on
deficiencies found;
n All records and actions from audit should be retained within the organisations document management
system.
MASS UK Industry Conduct Principles and Code of Practice Version 3 39