Crimes of Obedience: Well-meaning auditors in dysfunctional systems

Abstract: The ISM Code requires companies to establish a safety management system and verify its effectiveness through internal safety audits done by internal auditors. The Code is replete with words that are open to interpretation. The ISM code conveys what its objectives are and what it intends to achieve by the language in the code. The interpretation of the meaning of the words is crucial to understanding the content. This research sought the perspectives and understandings of the notions of “safety”, “safety management” and “safety management skills” among internal auditors who audit oil tankers. The research found that there was no common understanding. Initial research on the Code held cautious optimism about its potential impact. With time, the optimism waned and lately transformed into a confident critique of the Code. Is it now time to restore the relevance of the Code through a comprehensive review to align it with the latest developments in the field of Safety Science?