Panama Observa was created by ISM Shipping Solutions Ltd in response to the numerous enquiries received from shipowners, ship managers and Company Security Officers who were either unaware of Panama’s annual SSAS testing requirement or experiencing difficulties in managing the compliance process.

It was established to provide a trusted source of independent, practical and professional support for shipowners, operators, Company Security Officers (CSO), Designated Persons Ashore (DPA), Ship Managers, Masters, and quality and compliance departments responsible for Panama-flagged vessels.

We do not simply observe the requirement. We remain alongside our clients throughout the compliance process, year after year.

How We Work

For the annual SSAS test, Panama Observa manages and supports the compliance process for the client, including:

• Monitoring each vessel’s annual due date
• Reviewing the vessel, company and CSO information before scheduling
• Assisting with scheduling through the applicable official process
• Coordinating operational instructions with the vessel and the CSO
• Following the test through to successful completion
• Assisting with failed or pending tests and any necessary rescheduling
• Following up on the official Successful Test Confirmation
• Delivering and organising the compliance documentation
• Recording and monitoring the next annual due date

The vessel remains responsible for activating its SSAS equipment in accordance with the applicable instructions. Our role is to assist, coordinate, monitor and manage the administrative compliance process from beginning to end.

Panama Observa provides the management, coordination and documentary follow-up required to help clients complete the process correctly, on time and with an organised compliance record.

The Experience Behind Panama Observa

Panama Observa is operated by ISM Shipping Solutions Ltd, a British family-owned company specialising in ship registry documentation, regulatory compliance and maritime services, established in London in 1998.

Led by Maria Dixon, Panama Observa brings more than 46 years of experience in the shipping industry, with specialist knowledge of Panama Ship Registry documentation and regulatory compliance.

Maria’s professional experience includes serving as Head of Shipping at the Panamanian Consulate in London and subsequently establishing ISM Shipping Solutions Ltd as an independent maritime consultancy.

From ISM to ISPS

In 1998, Maria completed external auditor training covering the International Safety Management Code and ISO 9001 quality management systems.

This training strengthened her understanding of management systems, auditing principles, maritime procedures and regulatory documentation at a time when the shipping industry was adapting to the implementation of the ISM Code.

Following the events of 11 September 2001, Maria’s knowledge of the ISM framework became particularly relevant during the discussions at the International Maritime Organization that led to the development and adoption of the International Ship and Port Facility Security Code.

Working independently and on an ad hoc basis, Maria provided shipping-related background information and assistance, when requested, to Panama’s then Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the International Maritime Organization in London.

This assistance was provided independently and in a personal capacity. Maria did not serve as a member of Panama’s official delegation.

Her knowledge of the ISM Code helped her understand how the new maritime security requirements would need to be incorporated into company management systems, operational procedures, assigned responsibilities and records.

Maria has continued to follow the development and practical implementation of the ISPS Code ever since.

International Ship Registry Research

In 2007, Maria Dixon was commissioned by the Government of Panama and the Inter-American Development Bank to undertake a comparative study of 18 international ship registries.

The research examined their administrative, regulatory and operational practices. A significant part of the study related to the implementation of the ISM and ISPS Codes and the international obligations applicable to flag States and their registered vessels.

The assignment further strengthened Maria’s understanding of how different ship registries interpret, administer and enforce international maritime requirements.

Practical Maritime Security Experience

In 2012, when Panama introduced its framework for the authorisation of Private Maritime Security Companies, Maria prepared and managed the accreditation of the first company under the new system.

She subsequently handled accreditation work for more than 40 Private Maritime Security Companies, developing extensive specialist experience in the management, preparation and submission of security documentation to the Panama Maritime Authority.

This work has given Maria detailed practical knowledge of the regulatory measures associated with protecting vessels against piracy, armed attacks and other security threats at sea.

Our Work Today

This combination of experience in the Panama Ship Registry, the ISM Code, the ISPS Code and practical maritime security provides the professional foundation for Panama Observa.

Today, we provide shipowners, operators, ship managers, Company Security Officers and vessels with direct, experienced and practical assistance rather than an automated or impersonal service.

Our annual SSAS support combines due-date monitoring, preliminary information and documentation checks, assistance with scheduling, vessel coordination, operational guidance, result monitoring, follow-up of pending or failed tests, documentary organisation and registration of the next annual due date.

Independent Professional Support

Panama Observa is a private and independent professional service operated by ISM Shipping Solutions Ltd.

Where required, we assist clients with the necessary communications and administrative follow-up involving the Panama Maritime Authority and the relevant SSAS service provider or agent.

Panama Observa does not replace the statutory responsibilities of the shipowner, operator, Company Security Officer, Master or vessel.

Panama Observa is not part of, affiliated with, or acting on behalf of the Panama Maritime Authority. It does not perform the technical SSAS test, validate its results or issue the official Successful Test Confirmation.