Unit 3 Pinpointing Core Problems: Pareto Analysis of ISM Audits
To identify which factors, if corrected, would provide the maximum impact, a Pareto analysis of non-conformities (NCs) observed during ISM audits was conducted. This method helps to distinguish the "vital few" problems from the "trivial many," allowing for a focused approach to corrective action. Data from both the International Association of Classification Societies (IACS) and Lloyd’s Register (LR) reveals a consistent pattern. Between 2018 and 2022, IACS members recorded approximately 70,000 non-conformities.
The analysis shows that a few key areas account for the majority of issues. The top ten most frequent non-conformities are detailed in Table 3.2.
Table 3.2 Pareto Analysis of Top 10 ISM Audit Non-Conformities (Source: Lloyd's Register):
Notably, the most frequent non-conformity is 'Non-Compliance with rules and regulations', which is classified as a Crew-related Mistake. This is followed by issues in 'Shipboard operations' and deficiencies related to 'Ship maintenance'. This is supported by a pareto analysis of the data obtained from LR, representing 15% of the IACS data. The top ten most frequent non-conformities are listed below:
1.2.3.1 - Non-Compliance with rules and regulations.
10.2.1 - Inspections not held at the proper interval; 10.1 - Establish procedures not in place to maintain the ship; 10.3 - Identification & Measures not in place for critical equipment; 10.4 - Inspection routines & follow up not incorporated in the maintenance routines.
12.1 - Internal audits not held at 12-month intervals; 12.3 - Management review not conducted; 12.4 - Audits and corrective actions not in accordance with procedures; 12.7 - Timely corrective action not taken on findings noted.
5.1.5 - Master not periodically reviewing the SMS
7 - Shipboard operations
1.2.2.2 - Inadequate safeguards against identified risk
9.1 - Lack or inadequate reporting, investigating, analysing accidents, NCs, etc.
8.2 - Inadequate drills & exercise planning for emergencies
11.2.1 - Valid documents not available on relevant locations
9.2 - Non-implementation of corrective actions.