Much of the advice is aimed at governments and national authorities, but there are numerous sections aimed at shipowners and operators, specifically referencing ISM Code and MLC obligations.

The protocols for crew change and repatriation were drawn up by ICS, IAPH, BIMCO, IFSMA, INTERTANKO, P&I Clubs, CLIA, INTERCARGO, InterManager, IPTA, IMCA, INTERFERRY, FONASBA, ITF, and WSC. They also take account of input from the International Air Transport Association (IATA).