Answer
The comprehensive master list of all mandatory certificates and safety documents required by the IMO to be carried on board is officially detailed in the joint IMO Circular: FAL.2/Circ.131 - MEPC.1/Circ.873 - MSC.1/Circ.1586 - LEG.2/Circ.3 ("List of Certificates and Documents Required to be Carried on Board Ships").
For a normal cargo ship, important safety-related documents/certificates include:
- Cargo Ship Safety Construction Certificate — SOLAS Chapter I
- Cargo Ship Safety Equipment Certificate — SOLAS Chapter I
- Cargo Ship Safety Radio Certificate — SOLAS Chapter I
- Alternatively, where applicable, a Cargo Ship Safety Certificate under the harmonized system
- Safety Management Certificate (SMC) — SOLAS Chapter IX / ISM Code
- Document of Compliance copy (DOC) — SOLAS IX / ISM Code
- International Ship Security Certificate (ISSC) — SOLAS XI-2 / ISPS Code
- Minimum Safe Manning Document — SOLAS V/14
- Stability information/booklet — SOLAS II-1
- Damage control information / damage control plan — SOLAS II-1
- Cargo Securing Manual — SOLAS VI/5 and VII/5, as applicable
- Certificates of competency of officers/ratings — STCW
- Various fire-control, lifesaving, radio and emergency plans/manuals required by SOLAS.