International Chamber of Shipping develops and promotes shipping industry best practices and guidance through a wide range of publications and free resources that are used by ship operators globally.
You can download most publications from the list below for free and purchase the paid-for publications from our ICS bookshop.
Provides a comprehensive and practical framework for shipping companies to get ahead and prepare for any future global health emergency. Each part (before, during and after) comes with a handy toolkit of more than 30 checklists, posters, templates and forms to help companies practically implement these protocols into their safety management system and deliver on their crisis management plan in the event of an outbreak.
The aim of this video is to showcase to people what a diverse and interesting career maritime has to offer. It highlights the longevity of a career in maritime, from seafarer to coming ashore, emphasising how vital being at sea can be when coming ashore to other job opportunities within the sector.
ISM-related deficiencies are in the top three most-reported deficiencies by port state control authorities globally. The ICS Guidelines on the Application of the IMO International Safety Management (ISM) Code helps shipping companies comply with the code and provides practical guidance for designated persons ashore and crew to develop, implement and maintain an effective, user-friendly safety management system. The sixth edition adds a brand new chapter on internal audits, and an enhanced toolkit of checklists and templates.
From alternative fuels and propulsion systems, via energy-efficient practices, to digitalisation and efficient logistics, many possibilities are emerging to make the shipping industry a greener industry. Shipping and the Environment gives shipping companies and seafarers a comprehensive entry point into the vast range of regulatory and operational considerations designed to reduce shipping’s environmental footprint. This fifth edition builds on the success of the previous edition, Shipping and the Environment: A Code of Practice, Fourth Edition, which sold more than 10,000 copies.
The following common guidelines and supporting checklist are intended to ensure that the risks associated with the shipment of vehicles, including electric and hybrid vehicles are managed and to promote the safety of terminal and vessel personnel and the protection of property including the vessel itself.
The Engine Room Procedures Guide provides authoritative and comprehensive guidance on engine room procedures, to ensure that ships’ engine rooms are operated and managed safely while protecting the environment. A companion to the globally recognised ICS Bridge Procedures Guide, the Engine Room Procedures Guide can be used on all types of merchant ship. The second edition includes the latest safe procedures for handling liquefied natural gas, enclosed space entry, and preparing for port state inspections.
Drawing inspiration from an array of company policies and complementary initiatives, ICS and its global network of shipowners and operators present this set of industry principles for establishing effective measures to combat harassment and bullying.
The purpose of this Flag State Performance Table is to encourage shipowners and operators to examine whether a flag State has sufficient substance before using it and to encourage shipowners and operators to put pressure on their flag Administrations to affect any improvements that might be necessary, especially in relation to safety of life at sea, the protection of the marine environment, and the provision of decent working and living conditions for seafarers.
This practical and easy to understand workbook supports the owner, Master and the ship's crew with cyber security risk management.
It contains comprehensive checklists to assist with the day-to-day management of onboard cyber security and facilitates collaboration between ships, onshore IT departments and equipment manufacturers.
This publication provides advice on current piracy and armed robbery hotspots, as well as conflict regions and areas of increased risk. It includes the latest industry guidelines and advice to aid in the development of Ship Security Plans and also provides useful material for the training of Masters and Ship Security Officers to help achieve mandatory training requirements.
This 2024-2025 edition fully updates and supersedes Pirates and Armed Robbers: Guidelines on Prevention for Masters and Ship Security Officers, Fourth Edition by the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS).
