This site is part of the Informa Connect Division of Informa PLC

This site is operated by a business or businesses owned by Informa PLC and all copyright resides with them. Informa PLC's registered office is 5 Howick Place, London SW1P 1WG. Registered in England and Wales. Number 3099067.

AVAILABLE SCHEDULED AND ON DEMAND!
Scheduled: Course Starts 23 September 2026, 14 weeks
On-Demand: Start Now!

To support your decision-making, we've gathered the most common questions about the Certificate in Maritime Safety Management & the ISM Code.
These FAQs will help you understand how the programme works and what you can expect.

ABOUT THE COURSE

1. What is the Certificate in Maritime Safety Management?

The Certificate in Maritime Safety Management is a professional development programme from Lloyd’s Maritime Academy designed to provide a practical understanding of safety management in the maritime industry. It focuses on the ISM Code, risk management, and fostering a safety culture. This is the only distance-learning course at this level that examines maritime safety from a risk and culture perspective.

2. What will I learn in the Certificate in Maritime Safety Management course?

The course covers the fundamentals of maritime safety management, including the ISM Code, operational safety, risk and quality management, auditing, and developing a safety culture. It consists of six structured modules released over 12 weeks.


2-1. Will we learn about handling hazards on high seas?

Yes. The course covers how to identify, assess and manage hazards on high seas, from operational risks to emergency scenarios. You'll learn practical techniques to reduce risk, protect crew safety and maintain vessel integrity in line with maritime safety management best practice.

2-2. Does this course include managing safety requirements for crew safety and vessel integrity?

Yes. Managing safety requirements for crew safety and vessel integrity is at the heart of the course, alongside environmental protection. You'll learn how to design and run a safety management system that protects people, vessels and the environment in line with the ISM Code.

3. Why is understanding maritime safety management important for my work?

Understanding maritime safety management is essential for ensuring compliance with international safety standards, reducing risks, and enhancing operational safety. It also helps organisations develop a strong safety culture, which can improve reputation and operational efficiency.

4. Who teaches the Certificate in Maritime Safety Management course?

John Dickie, a renowned maritime expert, is the course director. He provides exclusive tutor support through the online forum, answering questions and offering guidance throughout the course.

WHO THE COURSE IS FOR

5. Who is the Maritime Safety Management course for?

The Certificate in Maritime Safety Management is for DPAs, safety officers, masters, chief officers, fleet superintendents, HSEQ managers and shore-based safety teams responsible for maritime safety management systems. It suits both seafarers and shore-based professionals who need to manage safety requirements, prevent pollution and embed a strong safety culture.

6. Do I need experience before enrolling in the Certificate in Maritime Safety Management course?

While prior experience in the marine industry is beneficial, it is not mandatory. The course is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of maritime safety management, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced professionals.

7. Which companies have previously enrolled staff in the Certificate in Maritime Safety Management course?

Participants have come from organisations such as IMO, Saipem, Kongsberg Maritime, Pan Marine International, Betty K Agencies Limited, De Beers Marine Namibia, Qatar Petroleum, and Saga.

8. What career opportunities can the Certificate in Maritime Safety Management support?

The course can support career progression into roles such as Surveyor, Ship Manager, Superintendent, Technical Manager, Compliance Manager, Safety Manager, Designated Person, Internal Auditor, Commercial Manager, Operations Manager, and even CEO positions.

COURSE FORMAT & DELIVERY

9. Is the Certificate in Maritime Safety Management available on-demand?

Yes. The course is available exclusively as an on-demand programme, allowing you to enrol immediately and study at your own pace from anywhere.

10. How does the Certificate in Maritime Safety Management work?

The course is composed of six modules released over a 12-week period. Each module is released every two weeks and requires approximately 2–3 hours of study. Students are assessed through online tests at the end of each module.

11. Can I study the Certificate in Maritime Safety Management from anywhere?

Yes. The course is delivered fully online and can be accessed globally. No travel or in-person attendance is required.

12. Can I study the Certificate in Maritime Safety Management from anywhere?

Yes. The course is delivered fully online and can be accessed globally. No travel or in-person attendance is required.

13. How much time do I need for the Certificate in Maritime Safety Management & the ISM Code course?

Each module requires approximately 3–4 hours of study, which is around 1–2 hours per week during the scheduled intake.

ASSESSMENT & CERTIFICATION

14. How is the Certificate in Maritime Safety Management assessed?

The course is assessed through online tests at the end of each module. A score of 70% is required to progress to the next module.

15. Do I receive a qualification after completing the Certificate in Maritime Safety Management?

Yes. Upon successful completion of the course, you will receive a certificate of completion with 21 CPD hours (2.1 CEUs) recorded. The course is accredited by IMarEST and RINA for CPD.

16. When will I receive my Certificate in Maritime Safety Management?

You will receive your digital badge and/or paper certificate after successfully completing all assessments and confirming your mailing details.

ADMISSIONS, FEES & DEADLINES

17. When does the next Certificate in Maritime Safety Management course start?

There is no specific start date for the on-demand version of the course. Participants can enrol and begin studying at any time.

18. What is the fee for the Certificate in Maritime Safety Management?

The Certificate in Maritime Safety Management is priced at £2,099 + VAT / $2,840, with an early booking fee of £1,889.10 + VAT / $2,556.
EUR pricing is also available at the exchange rate applied on the invoice date.

19. Are group bookings available for the Certificate in Maritime Safety Management?

Yes. Group bookings and referrals are welcome and may qualify for preferential pricing.
Contact us to discuss the group booking discount.

GENERAL INFORMATION

20. Do I need a visa for the Certificate in Maritime Safety Management?

No. The Certificate in Maritime Safety Management is delivered entirely online and does not require a study visa or physical attendance.

21. Is there a similar course to the Certificate in Maritime Safety Management?

Yes, the Certificate in Maritime Safety Management is part of the Safety and Environment portfolio offered by Lloyd’s Maritime Academy. Related courses in this portfolio focus on environmental compliance, risk management, pollution prevention, and sustainable practices within the maritime industry.