Quality, modernisation and transparency have been the three fundamental themes of the International Association of Classification Societies (IACS) through 2017, as highlighted in its Annual Review which was presented in London by IACS Chairman Knut Ørbeck-Nilssen.
Looking back at IACS’ development and successes over the past year, Mr Ørbeck-Nilssen said that during these dynamic times, both IACS and its twelve Member societies need to act as a guide for the shipping industry, identifying the path for others to follow.
When many in the maritime community feel like their businesses are in dire straits, IACS and its Members, the top classification societies, need to be a beacon of light setting the course ahead – with modern requirements, transparent processes and the highest quality of service.
Highlights for IACS from 2017 include:
IACS scope of work 2017:
- With arguments both for and against multi-mapping being made, IACS has examined and offered its view on this issue to the IMO,
- IACS is working with IMO on the development of standards for lifesaving appliances and arrangements on polar operating ships to meet IMO’s Polar Code,
- IACS has supported the development and implementation of the IMO’s energy efficiency design index,
- A dedicated IACS Expert Group is focused on conventional and advanced testing techniques,
- IACS has initiated a review of its Resolutions currently in force to address possible requirements that may hinder technical development of autonomous ships
- Safety of converted VLOCs: IACS has evaluated the need for work on converted very large ore carriers
- The evolving ties between IACS and the IMO are deepening and becoming more important to both bodies
- IACS has pioneered a system that flag State Administrations could use in their oversight of IACS Members acting as ROs,
- IACS has prioritised cyber security concerns through a joint working group to determine how best to manage cyber risk.
The support that IACS can offer to regulators like the IMO and ILO, as well as to the industry, relates to the following values:
- Leadership: the ability to be ahead and to co-operate with regulators and industry on initiatives that can effectively promote maritime safety, protection of the environment and sustainability;
- Technical knowledge: collective and individual knowledge and experience leading to the development, adoption and implementation of technical rules and requirements reflecting current practice and changing demands of society, supporting innovation and new technologies;
- Quality performance: commitment of Members to define and adhere to the highest global quality standards;
- Transparency: the ability to provide advice on the implementation of regulations, interpretations or enhancements thereof, if the need is identified, so that practical solutions can be effectively developed in cooperation and with the support of other stakeholders, increasing the trust on class.
Commenting on the publication of the 2017 Annual Review, Mr Ørbeck-Nilssen said:
2017 was a year in which the maritime world’s key players had to get to grips with tectonic changes in markets, regulations and technology. I am proud to say that both IACS and its Member societies rose to that challenge with their work across the year: Together we achieved significant progress in modernising the concept of class and in adapting to the digital transformation of our industry. In IACS, we strive to ensure that our own standards allow for innovative practices that utilise the flexibility available within ship regulations while maintaining high-quality and delivering on our unceasing commitment to a safer and more secure maritime world.
