What is the Importance of the Designated Person Ashore Role in a Shipping Company?
If you’re looking to better understand the importance of the Designated Person Ashore role in a shipping company, then read on!
The Designated Person Ashore (DPA) plays a crucial role in the Safety Management System (SMS) of a shipping company. The DPA is a key position mandated by the International Safety Management (ISM) Code, which is part of the International Maritime Organisation’s (IMO) regulations.
Here are some important aspects of the DPA role in a shipping company:
Safety Management System (SMS) Oversight:
The DPA is responsible for ensuring that the company’s Safety Management System is effectively implemented and maintained. They play a pivotal role in promoting a safety culture within the organisation.
Continuous Improvement:
The DPA is involved in monitoring and evaluating the effectiveness of the SMS, identifying areas for improvement, and implementing necessary changes. Regular reviews of safety procedures and practices are conducted to enhance the overall safety performance of the shipping company.
Communication with Maritime Authorities:
The DPA acts as the primary point of contact between the company and maritime authorities, ensuring compliance with international regulations and standards. They may communicate with flag state authorities, port state control, and other relevant entities.
Incident Investigation:
In the event of accidents, incidents, or near misses, the DPA is responsible for initiating and overseeing investigations to determine the root causes and prevent recurrence. They collaborate with relevant personnel to implement corrective and preventive actions.
Training and Awareness:
The DPA is involved in promoting safety awareness and providing training to the crew and shore-based personnel. Training programs are designed to ensure that all employees understand and adhere to safety procedures.
Emergency Response:
The DPA is responsible for developing and maintaining emergency response plans to address potential maritime incidents or crises. They ensure that the company is well-prepared to respond promptly and effectively to emergencies.
Documentation and Record Keeping:
The DPA maintains documentation related to the SMS, including records of drills, training, and incident investigations. Proper documentation is essential for demonstrating compliance with regulations during audits.
Regulatory Compliance:
The DPA monitors changes in relevant maritime regulations and ensures the company’s compliance with these regulations. They may be involved in preparing the company for external audits by flag states or classification societies.
In summary, the Designated Person Ashore is a critical role in a shipping company, ensuring that safety standards are maintained, continuous improvement is pursued, and regulatory requirements are met. The DPA helps foster a safety culture throughout the organisation, contributing to the overall well-being of the crew, the vessel, and the marine environment.
If you require to undertake training for this role, The Maritime Skills Academy offers this course on a regular basis and can be taught online by remote learning.
The training will cover areas such as
- Context and interpretation of the ISM code
- Issues and common problems for the Designated Person(s)
- Understanding Human Factors and ISM Effective Performance Management and KPIs
- Appreciating Legal Issues and Self-Preservation
- Effective Audit Requirements and Techniques
- Effective ISM Reporting, Analysis and Corrective Actions
- Effective Risk Management
- Effective Management of Change
We have also combined the DPA training with Company Security Officer, as these roles can be held by the same individual within a shipping organisation.
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