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What is a Safety Management System (SMS) and Why Do You Need One?

Written by TBS Safety | 6/5/25 4:05 PM

A Safety Management System (SMS) is a comprehensive framework that guides safe and efficient operations for maritime companies. It aligns with the International Safety Management (ISM) Code and meets Subchapter M and AWO RCP requirements.

A SMS is more than a set of documents; it’s a living system tailored to your company’s unique operations. It ensures that everyone, from senior management to crew, understands their roles in maintaining safety and protecting the environment.

Why You Need an SMS

Compliance
The U.S. Coast Guard mandates compliance with Subchapter M for towing vessels. An SMS ensures you’re always inspection-ready and aligned with industry standards.

Safety and Environmental Protection
The SMS covers procedures to prevent injuries, protect lives, and safeguard the environment. It includes risk assessments for everyday tasks and emergency scenarios.

Operational Efficiency
A well-crafted SMS streamlines operations. It details how to handle equipment, respond to emergencies, and perform tasks safely, reducing downtime and improving productivity.

Continuous Improvement
An SMS isn’t static. It’s continuously improved through audits, feedback, and lessons learned, ensuring your company is always moving forward.

At TBS Safety, we don’t just create SMS’s. We help you implement them, train your crew, and perform audits to ensure your system remains effective. With our experience and dedication, your SMS becomes more than a requirement, it becomes a powerful tool for safety, compliance, and operational success.

Ready to Get Started?

Let’s talk about how an SMS can protect your people, your vessels, and your reputation. Contact TBS Safety today to learn more about implementing a Safety Management System tailored to your operations.