The role of classification societies, Recognized Organizations and IACS

摘要

The International Load Line Convention of 1930 recommended collaboration between classification societies to secure "as much uniformity as possible in the application of the standards of strength upon which freeboard is based..." The first conference of the major societies was held in 1939. This agreed on further cooperation between them. A second major classification society conference, held in 1955, led to the creation of Working Parties to address specific topics. In 1968, IACS was formed with seven founding members. It is often stated that the International Maritime Organization (IMO) can be seen as the reason why IACS was formed. IMO provides the opportunity for classification societies to have a collective voice in providing technical expertise, advice and feedback in the development of the regulatory framework for the global shipping industry.