Contact Points in IMO GISIS – Maritime Education

An Introduction and Practical Guide to Competent Authorities and Authorized Organizations

Introduction: Why Official Contact Points Matter in Global Shipping

International shipping is one of the most regulated industries in the world. Ships move between countries, ports, and legal jurisdictions on every voyage. To function safely, securely, and efficiently, the maritime industry depends on clear communication between governments, administrations, and authorized organizations.

When a ship needs clarification on regulations, certificates, inspections, crew matters, pollution incidents, or emergencies, it is essential to know who the competent authority is and how to contact them quickly and correctly. Confusion, outdated contact details, or unofficial sources can lead to delays, non-compliance, or serious operational risks.

To address this need, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) provides an official digital solution through the Global Integrated Shipping Information System (GISIS). One of its key modules is “Contact Points”, which offers official contact lists of competent authorities and authorized organizations relating to IMO matters.

This article provides a comprehensive introduction and practical guide to the Contact Points module in GISIS. It explains its purpose, legal background, content, users, and real-world importance for maritime professionals, administrations, students, and researchers worldwide.

Understanding GISIS in the IMO System

What Is the IMO Global Integrated Shipping Information System?

The Global Integrated Shipping Information System (GISIS) is an IMO-managed online platform that collects and displays maritime information submitted by IMO Member States. Its purpose is to support:

Transparency in maritime regulation
Effective implementation of IMO conventions
International cooperation between administrations
Easy access to authoritative maritime data

GISIS integrates many databases into one interface, covering safety, security, environmental protection, certification, audits, and administrative matters.

Several modules are publicly accessible, including Contact Points, making GISIS an essential reference tool for the global maritime community.

What Is the “Contact Points” Module in GISIS?

Core Purpose of the Contact Points Option

The Contact Points module provides official contact details for:

Competent authorities
Governmental maritime administrations
Authorized organizations acting on behalf of States

These contacts relate specifically to IMO-regulated matters, such as safety, security, environmental protection, certification, and compliance with international conventions.

The module’s main objectives are to:

Identify the correct authority for specific IMO issues
Support fast and reliable communication between States and stakeholders
Reduce confusion caused by informal or outdated contact sources

Legal and Regulatory Context of Contact Points

IMO Conventions and Communication Obligations

Many IMO conventions require Contracting Governments to designate authorities and communicate their contact details to the IMO. These include, among others:

SOLAS
MARPOL
STCW
ISPS Code
Ballast Water Management Convention
Load Line Convention

The Contact Points module serves as a centralized digital repository for this information.

Competent Authorities and Authorized Organizations

In the IMO context:

A competent authority is a government body legally responsible for implementing and enforcing IMO instruments.
An authorized organization is an entity (often a classification society) authorized by a flag State to perform statutory functions on its behalf.

GISIS clearly distinguishes between these roles where information is provided by Member States.

What Information Is Available in the Contact Points Module?

Types of Contact Information Provided

Depending on what each Member State submits, the Contact Points module may include:

Name of the authority or organization
Type of authority (flag administration, port authority, maritime safety authority, etc.)
Area of responsibility (safety, security, pollution prevention, certification, audits)
Postal address
Email address
Telephone and fax numbers
Additional remarks or scope of competence

This information is structured to support regulatory, administrative, and operational communication.

Who Submits and Maintains the Contact Data?

Role of IMO Member States

All information in the Contact Points module is:

Submitted by IMO Member States
Based on official national designations
Updated by administrations when changes occur

The IMO does not independently create or verify contact details; it acts as a trusted platform for information provided by governments.

How to Access the Contact Points Module in GISIS

Step 1: Enter the GISIS Public Area

Users access GISIS via the IMO website and enter the Public Area, which is open without login for general information.

Step 2: Select “Contact Points”

From the GISIS dashboard, users select the “Contact Points” option, as shown in the attached image.

Step 3: Browse or Search Contacts

Depending on system functionality, users can:

Browse contact points by Member State
Identify authorities responsible for specific IMO matters
Retrieve official communication details

Why Contact Points Are Critical for Maritime Operations

Ensuring Correct Communication Channels

Using the wrong contact can lead to:

Delayed responses
Incorrect regulatory guidance
Non-compliance with IMO obligations

The GISIS Contact Points module ensures users reach the officially designated authority.

Supporting Time-Sensitive Situations

Contact Points are essential during:

Maritime incidents or accidents
Pollution events
Security concerns
PSC-related clarifications
Certificate or exemption queries

Fast access to reliable contacts can significantly reduce operational risk.

Practical Use Cases of the Contact Points Module

Flag State Administrations

Flag States use Contact Points to:

Publish official communication channels
Coordinate with other administrations
Respond to international inquiries

Port State Control Authorities

PSC officers and authorities rely on Contact Points to:

Verify flag State responsibilities
Communicate inspection findings
Coordinate follow-up actions

Shipping Companies and Ship Managers

Operators and managers use the module to:

Contact flag administrations
Clarify regulatory interpretations
Address certification and compliance matters

Classification Societies and Authorized Organizations

Recognized organizations use Contact Points to:

Coordinate statutory activities
Communicate with flag administrations
Support audits and surveys

Role of Contact Points in IMO Compliance and Enforcement

Supporting Convention Implementation

Clear identification of responsible authorities supports:

Effective enforcement of IMO conventions
Consistent interpretation of requirements
Transparent administrative processes

Reducing Regulatory Fragmentation

By centralizing contact information, GISIS reduces:

Confusion caused by multiple national websites
Reliance on unofficial sources
Language and terminology misunderstandings

Relationship with Other GISIS Modules

The Contact Points module complements several other GISIS databases, including:

Ship and Company Particulars – identifying responsible entities
Maritime Security – linking to security authorities
Port Reception Facilities – environmental compliance contacts
Marine Casualties and Incidents – coordination during investigations
Member State Audits – administrative transparency

Together, these modules form a coherent information ecosystem.

Importance for Environmental Protection and Safety

Pollution Prevention and Response

During pollution incidents, knowing the correct authority is essential for:

Reporting under MARPOL
Coordinating response actions
Managing liability and claims

Safety and Accident Investigation

Contact Points support:

Communication between investigating States
Exchange of safety information
Follow-up on recommendations

Common Misunderstandings About Contact Points in GISIS

It Is Not an Emergency Hotline

The module provides administrative contact details, not real-time emergency response services.

It Does Not Replace Company Procedures

Companies must still follow:

Internal escalation procedures
Flag State requirements
Port and coastal State rules

GISIS supports, but does not replace, these systems.

Best Practices for Using the Contact Points Module

Always use GISIS as a first reference for official contacts
Confirm the scope of authority before making inquiries
Keep records of communications with authorities
Combine GISIS information with flag and class guidance
Treat the data as authoritative but subject to national updates

Educational Value for Maritime Students and Training Programs

For maritime education, the Contact Points module offers:

Practical understanding of maritime governance
Exposure to administrative aspects of IMO conventions
Insight into the roles of national authorities

It is particularly valuable in courses covering:

Maritime law
Ship management
Port State Control
Maritime administration and policy

Digital Governance and the Future of Maritime Contact Information

Increasing Importance of Digital Platforms

As shipping becomes more digital, centralized platforms like GISIS:

Improve efficiency
Reduce administrative burden
Support global harmonization

Future Improvements

Potential future developments may include:

Enhanced search and filtering
Better integration with other IMO systems
Improved usability for non-native English users

The Contact Points module will remain a foundational element of IMO digital governance.

Conclusion: A Small Module with Major Importance

The Contact Points option in the IMO Global Integrated Shipping Information System may appear simple, but its importance is significant. By providing official contact lists of competent authorities and authorized organizations relating to IMO matters, it supports clear communication, regulatory compliance, and international cooperation.

For maritime administrations, port authorities, shipping companies, classification societies, researchers, and students, the module offers a trusted and authoritative reference in an otherwise complex regulatory environment.

In a global industry where timely and accurate communication can affect safety, environmental protection, and trade continuity, the GISIS Contact Points module stands as a quiet but essential pillar of the international maritime system.

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