CLASSIFICATION SOCIETIES AND SAFETY AT SEA - BACK TO BASICS TO PREPARE FOR THE FUTURE

The original role of a classification society was to supply reliable information about the conditions of ships for under-writers and cargo owners. This role changed during the 19th century into one of regulation and inspection. Today, the role of classification societies is evolving towards a global function that integrates many aspects of ship safety: construction and operation standards, technical requirements, and human factors. This new approach, which also embraces the original role, will prepare classification societies for the future challenges of safety at sea.