IACs

The International Association of Classification Societies (IACS) is an international body comprising several of the world's leading marine classification societies. Its member societies are responsible for classifying ships and offshore installations to verify compliance with safety, reliability, and environmental standards. IACS acts as a forum for technical coordination, sharing best practices, and developing harmonized rules that member societies apply in surveys and certification.

IACS's primary purpose is to harmonize and advance technical standards for the design, construction, maintenance, and operation of ships and offshore structures. It develops and maintains Unified Requirements (URs) and guidelines that member societies implement when classing vessels. It also oversees the development of Common Structural Rules (CSR) for hull design, including rules relevant to bulk carriers and oil tankers. In addition, IACS works on issues such as safety management, machinery and electrical systems, corrosion protection, and fuel efficiency, and it engages with international bodies to support safety and environmental protection.

Governance and activities follow a collaborative model. IACS operates through a council, technical committees, and a secretariat, with member societies contributing to working groups and task forces. Decisions are typically made by consensus among the member organizations. The association also engages in mutual recognition of surveys and certificates, helping streamline port state control and international trade.

IACS standards influence global maritime practice and are widely adopted by flag states and regulatory authorities. While not a regulatory body itself, IACS provides technical expertise and recommended practices that inform international conventions and national regulations. Its membership includes many of the world’s major classification societies, such as ABS, BV, DNV GL, LR, ClassNK, NK, RINA, KR, and RS, among others.