First 2026 Member to Member Secondment

Michael Santos, Supervisory Technician in Ports and Captaincy at Panama Maritime, participated in the first IC‑ENC Secondment of 2026. Hosted by the United Kingdom Hydrographic Office, the program focused on developing expertise in Quality Management Systems and included completion of the ISO 9001 Lead Auditor Training Course.

Michael reflected on his experience and shared insights gained throughout the program.

Observations

During the secondment, several core aspects of UKHO’s Quality Management System became evident. The visit to the Archive and Documentation area demonstrated the importance of structured document control, showing how version management and historical traceability support chart accuracy. Observations of UKHO’s quality framework and risk management practices highlighted how ISO 9001 principles—such as PDCA, process-based thinking, and risk identification are consistently applied across the organisation.

Operational visits showed that chart‑production procedures are fully documented and carefully followed, ensuring accuracy, consistency, and safety. The Customer Service Department illustrated how effective triage and communication support both operational flow and quality assurance. Finally, the Bathymetry team demonstrated how rigorous data and metadata validation underpin reliable chart updates and help prevent downstream errors.

Key Learning Outcomes

The Lead Auditor training developed a comprehensive understanding of Quality Management Systems, including risk‑based thinking, process auditing, and continual improvement. These principles became more tangible through observing their real‑world implementation at UKHO. Across every department visited, documentation proved essential to maintaining accuracy, consistency, and accountability. Whether managing historical archives or responding to stakeholder inquiries, clear procedures and controlled documents form the backbone of quality operations.

Quality management was not treated as a separate or administrative function, it was integrated into every activity. Staff at all levels understood their responsibilities within the QMS, demonstrating an organisation‑wide culture of quality. Bathymetric analysis emphasised the importance of complete metadata, rigorous data validation, and adherence to technical standards. These practices ensure safe, reliable nautical information foundation elements for global navigation safety.

Risk identification and mitigation were visible across operations. Understanding how UKHO incorporates structured risk management reinforced the need for proactive control mechanisms within any maritime organisation.

3. Conclusion

The IC‑ENC Secondment at the UK Hydrographic Office provided a unique combination of structured learning and practical exposure. The ISO 9001 Lead Auditor training established a strong theoretical foundation, while the departmental visits demonstrated how a mature Quality Management System functions in practice.

This experience clearly showed how documentation, data quality, risk management, and process control collectively ensure the accuracy and safety of nautical chart products. Observing UKHO’s well‑embedded quality culture offered valuable insights that can support strengthening quality and operational processes within the Autoridad Marítima de Panamá. The knowledge gained during this secondment will contribute directly to improving internal procedures, enhancing risk control, and promoting a culture of continual improvement in Panama’s maritime operations.

Michael received the ISO ISO 9001:2015 Lead Auditor certificate. He commented that ‘this is just the beginning of the journey for me. I truly see this as a foundation to continue learning and improving.’

For more information and to see what secondment opportunities are currently available, please click here.