The right focus: effectiveness
The IMO Member State Audit Scheme, IMSAS, assesses the implementation of obligations in the instruments it covers. Starting an audit by preparing folders, without clear responsibilities, hides a fundamental question: can the national implementation system produce reliable evidence in normal operations? According to official IMO information, the first cycle of mandatory audits began in 2016 and ended in June 2026; the revised framework and procedures, A.1211(34), replaced the previous instrument from 30 June 2026, and the second cycle is planned for July 2027. The IMSAS Continuous Monitoring Mechanism (ICMM) is also part of the new direction.
The architecture of an evidence repository
Organise evidence in four clusters: legal (laws and powers), operational (implementation and inspection procedures), human resources (training and qualification of officers) and control (oversight, monitoring and corrective actions). Each document should have a validity date, an owner and a stated link to an obligation. An old certificate or procedure that does not cover the operational process is not enough evidence on its own.
A readiness test before the audit
Follow three sample case files from start to finish: a ship’s registration and certification, a port State control inspection report and the oversight of a recognised organisation. In each case, can the decision, the authority, the correspondence, the handling of complaints and the follow-up of violations be traced? This chain test reveals gaps between units better than an audit of documents alone.
Managing findings
An audit finding must be linked to its root cause. For example, “no review report” may be the result of having no process owner or no information system. Close each corrective action with an owner, a deadline, a budget and an effectiveness test; sending a letter saying a deficiency has been fixed is not the end of the work.
Practical checklist
- Assign a document and an evidence owner for each obligation
- Trace sample case files from end to end
- Record findings with a root-cause analysis
- Do not forget the effectiveness test after correction
Frequently asked questions
Is IMSAS the same as PSC?
No. IMSAS audits the Member State's system for implementing its obligations; PSC concerns the inspection of foreign ships in port.
Related advisory area: International Maritime Regulation & IMO Affairs
Editorial note: this article is written for awareness and management decision-making. Applying any rule depends on the authentic current text, the legal position of the State concerned and the facts of the case. The content is independent and implies no endorsement by, or affiliation with, IMO.