Do Shipping Companies Have to Use ISO 45001?

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Durga Mishra

Content and SEO Specialist

Do Shipping Companies Have to Use ISO 45001?

Safe living and working conditions are essential for seafarers on ships. This helps prevent accidents, illnesses, and even deaths that can happen during complex shipping operations at sea. To make sure these safe conditions are met, international rules like the Maritime Labor Convention (MLC 2006) and national laws set by the country a ship belongs to (flag state) require shipping companies to have occupational health and safety (OH&S) policies.

These policies outline how to keep seafarers safe. Following these rules, shipping companies create OH&S management systems based on recognized international standards. Previously, the BS OHSAS 18001 standard was used, and since March 2018, the new ISO 45001:2018 standard has been in effect. So the question is do shipping companies have to use ISO 45001? While it is not mandatory it offers a wide range of benefits to the organisation that chooses to adopt it.

Do Shipping Companies Have to Use ISO 45001?

Obtaining ISO 45001 certification isn't mandatory for shipping companies. However, there are important safety requirements they must follow.

Here's a closer look:

International regulations, like the Maritime Labor Convention (MLC 2006), require shipping companies to have Occupational Health and Safety (OH&S) policies in place to protect their crew (Reg. 4.3). Individual flag state laws (the country a ship belongs to) may also have additional requirements.
ISO 45001 is a well-regarded international standard that provides a framework for building a strong OH&S management system. While certification itself isn't mandatory, implementing a system based on ISO 45001 demonstrates a shipping company's commitment to following best practices for worker safety. This can be a significant advantage.

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Benefits of Implementing ISO 45001 for Shipping Companies

ISO 45001 offers additional benefits that go beyond just safety:

Enhanced Reputation: Today's competitive market rewards companies prioritizing safety. ISO 45001 certification showcases your commitment to responsible practices, attracting customers, investors, and top talent who value a safety-conscious organization.
Competitive Advantage: Being an early adopter of ISO 45001 positions your company as a leader in safety innovation. This proactive approach sets you apart from competitors who haven't yet implemented the standard.
Increased Productivity: Studies show a clear link between safety-focused workplaces and improved productivity. Fewer accidents mean less downtime finding replacements or dealing with operational disruptions, keeping your ships on schedule and maximizing efficiency.

Conclusion

Academy can help. We offer training and consulting services to implement ISO 45001, the international standard for occupational health and safety management systems. By following ISO 45001, you can create a structured approach to keeping your seafarers safe on board.