ISM 1.5 — Master’s Responsibility & Authority

Purpose

Define the Master’s overriding authority and responsibility for safety and pollution prevention.

Scope

All vessels under the Company’s DOC.

Responsibilities & Authority

• To make decisions with overriding authority for safety and pollution prevention.
• To request Company resources and support as necessary.
• To ensure compliance with the SMS and applicable regulations.
• To lead the shipboard safety culture and conduct drills/briefs as required.

Communication

• Direct access to the Company’s highest management via the DPA.
• Immediate reporting of incidents/NCs/near misses per Company procedures.

Acceptance Criteria

Evidence of Master’s exercising authority (logs, decisions, drill leadership, formal requests for support) as appropriate.