Working to a well-structured, solid framework is the bedrock of most successfully run organisations. It’s a truth that the Dry Bulk Management Standard (DryBMS) has wholeheartedly taken on board its own structure. We call it the 4Ps.
The 4Ps in the framework represent Performance, People, Plant and Process.
Working as a combined model, these sections provide an essential platform to help maritime organisations exceed compliance and promote continual improvements to its safety standards. The 4Ps serve as a guiding compass for dry bulk shipping companies at all levels including those operating bulk carriers.
In the coming weeks we will be taking a closer look at each of the 4 sections. Today we begin with Performance.
Performance plays a key role within the context of the DryBMS framework. It shows how companies should foster a strong, proactive culture of safety across the organisation. It also stresses the importance of encompassing ship safety management and being accountable for environmental responsibilities. Upholding and enhancing these standards is a duty for the entire workforce. From senior management to crew members, everyone plays their part to ensure the company’s performance is compliant with international maritime regulations and industry best practices such as TMSA and Intercargo standards.
To give a more detailed understanding of this section, we’ll take a closer look at the essential components that define Performance under DryBMS.
Subject Area 1: Commitment to HSSE
A strong HSSE culture is championed by senior leadership and promoted at every level This sets the tone for responsible and safe operations.
Subject Area 2: Vessel Visits and Communications
Managers are expected to lead by example, fostering a workplace culture where employees feel well-informed, involved, and empowered in their roles. A key element of this is ensuring coherence between office operations and shipboard activities. This is achieved through scheduled vessel visits by senior managers. These visits should not be limited to PSC (Port State Control) inspections or audits but form part of an ongoing dialogue and engagement with the crew.
Subject Area 3: SMS Governing Documents
The company’s policies, practices, and procedures are carefully documented, maintained, and consistently followed to protect personnel and support the safe, reliable, and compliant operation of bulk carriers. These documents are written in clear, plain language and are easily accessible to all. This ensures that every member of the workforce can understand and apply them in practice.
Subject Area 4: HSSE Objectives and KPIs
The company sets clear HSSE objectives, underpinned by a balanced system of leading and lagging indicators. This approach enables teams to align their efforts, measure progress effectively, track performance over time, and identify opportunities for continual improvement in health, safety, security, and environmental standards, aligning with ship safety regulations.
Subject Area 5: Audit Planning, Review and Close Out
Regular audits of management and operational processes help assure compliance, reduce risk, and drive continuous improvement. Findings are addressed systematically, often using Root Cause Analysis, to ensure lasting progress and enhance cargo ship safety.
Subject Area 6: Master’s Review and Company Evaluation
Periodic reviews of the Safety Management System in Shipping help assess its suitability and effectiveness, ensuring that efficiency and safety are continually strengthened, supporting ship safety certification.
Together, these practices help create a resilient performance culture that goes beyond compliance. They form the backbone of a DryBMS approach that seeks not only to meet regulatory standards but to exceed them through a culture of safety, inclusivity, and shared accountability in the ship industry.
