How do you carry out an internal audit on board, covering the opening meeting, documentation and physical checks, and what does CDTR mean for documentation?

flowchart TD
    A[Plan audit] --> B[Opening meeting]
    B --> C[Documentation checks\nCDTR]
    C --> D[Physical checks]
    D --> E[Report findings]
    E --> F[Close out NCs]

• Purpose: verify shipboard SMS implementation against ISM Code
• Opening meeting: introduce auditor, explain scope/methods, establish communication, confirm resources and closing meeting time
• CDTR: Certificates, Documents, Training, Records
• Documentation check: controlled, current, retrievable per ISM §11
• Physical checks: equipment condition, procedure compliance, maintenance status, safety equipment readiness
• Interval: ≤12 months, +3 months only in exceptional circumstances per ISM §12.1
• Indian frame: MS Act 2025 s.147 and MS (ISM) Rules 2000
• As Chief Engineer: plan audit, conduct opening meeting, verify CDTR, perform physical checks, report findings, ensure corrective actions