What is the ISM Code primarily concerned with?

• A. International standard for safe management and operation of ships
• B. Guidelines for emergency response in harbors
• C. Provide international standard for safe management and operation of ships and pollution prevention
• D. Guidelines for port state control

Answer: (C)

The ISM Code is about setting international standards for how ships are managed to operate safely and to protect the environment. It requires shipping companies to establish a Safety Management System (SMS) that covers safe operating procedures, training, drills, maintenance, and pollution prevention. The aim is not just safe operation in general, but a systematic approach to prevent accidents and minimize environmental impact through approved procedures and ongoing verification. That combination—safe management and operation along with pollution prevention—is what the ISM Code focuses on, with audits and certification to ensure the system is actually implemented on board. The other options describe different guidelines (emergency response, port state control) that aren’t the primary focus of the ISM Code.