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London, 30th September 2021 : Nick Brown, chief executive of Lloyd’s Register, has been formally introduced as the new Chairman of the International Association of Classification Societies (IACS) to a group of specially invited maritime journalists at a press conference in London today.

Mr Brown was elected as the new Chairman of IACS in April and his term of office will be 30 months following a recent IACS governance change.

In his first speech in the role, Mr Brown told journalists that work is underway on a long-term strategic roadmap to support industry through decarbonisation with IACS welcoming increasing levels of collaboration.

“Everyone is talking about decarbonisation but very few people, if any, are talking about the impact of the transition on safety. This is fundamental to IACS’ role as the primary technical advisor to the International Maritime Organization,” Mr Brown said.  “Through its work, IACS will continue take a holistic risk-based approach to assure that the safety performance of the industry is maintained or improved.”

With the potential introduction of many new technologies on ships to address decarbonization and other advancement opportunities, Mr Brown announced that the human element is being written into IACS’ strategy as “IACS rules are based on a fit healthy competent crew being on board”. And a joint industry working group will also be established to help assess the regulatory regime in the fast-moving technology environment.

He stressed that it was in society’s collective interests to prioritise and ensure seafarer wellbeing with the critical role of crew being recognised by this year’s World Maritime Day theme “Seafarers: At the Core of Shipping’s Future”.

Referencing IACS’ resilience and agility during the COVID-19 pandemic, Brown pointed to its work with industry stakeholders to agree certificate extensions and its support for the use and acceptance of remote survey to maintain global supply chains, but always with a keen eye on maintaining or improving actual levels of safety in the industry.

He said the association had released 178 publications since January 2020, of which 21 were new as IACS “kept on top of the updates needed to ensure IACS instruments were responsive to technical, industrial and regulatory drivers.”

Ends

Contact: Robert Ashdown, IACS Secretary General
E: robertashdown@iacs.org.uk T: +44 (0) 20 7976 0660
International Association of Classification Societies
Permanent Secretariat 4 Matthew Parker Street, London, England SW1H 9NP​

Notes to Editors:

1. Dedicated to safe ships and clean seas, the International Association of Classification Societies (IACS) makes a unique contribution to maritime safety and regulation through technical support, compliance verification and research and development. More than 90% of the world’s cargo carrying tonnage is covered by the classification design, construction and through-life compliance Rules and standards set by the twelve Member Societies of IACS. 

2. A high resolution (18mb) portrait photo of Nick Brown is available at https://www.iacs.org.uk/media/8051/nick-brown.jpg 

3. More information on the work IACS has undertaken in response to the COVID19 pandemic can be found on our dedicated webpage http://iacs.org.uk/covid-19/ 

4. More information about IACS can be found by visiting iacs.org.uk and in our Annual Review available online at http://www.iacs.org.uk/about/iacs-annual-review/

Noting the work IACS Members undertake as Recognized Organizations of IMO Member States, verifying compliance of ships with IMO agreed requirements, and with a view to achieve clarity for all parties, IACS has submitted and co-sponsored the following papers under agenda item 3 (Consideration and adoption of amendments to mandatory instruments), agenda item 5 (Measures to improve domestic ferry safety) and agenda item 15 (Work programme):

MSC 104/3/1 analyses application requirements of the Protocol of 1988 relating to the International Convention on Load Lines, 1966 (“1988 Load Lines Protocol”) and the IGC Code. The co-sponsors propose a way forward to introduce clarity regarding application of draft amendments to those instruments pertaining to watertight doors on cargo ships.

MSC 104/5/4 elaborates on the concept of delegation of authority to a recognized organization and suggests other improvements to assist the Committee and the Working Group on Domestic Ferry Safety when developing the relevant articles of the model regulations on domestic ferry safety.

MSC 104/15 proposes a new output to revise paragraphs 6.5.1 and 6.5.5 of the 2009 MODU Code to clarify the application of requirements to electrical equipment located in spaces other than enclosed spaces which are capable of operation after shutdown (equipment that is required to remain operational in abnormal situations).  This proposal will lead to a greater consistency in the application of the Code.

MSC 104/15/1 proposes a new output to develop amendments to paragraph 2.4.1.4 of chapter 15 of the FSS Code on enclosed spaces containing a nitrogen receiver or a buffer tank of nitrogen generator systems.

MSC 104/15/2 proposes a new output to review and update SOLAS regulation II-2/9 to address challenges and ambiguities when applying the current SOLAS regulation. Also, the proposal seeks to consolidate by incorporating into SOLAS a number of unified interpretation and guidelines that have been developed through the years to implement SOLAS regulation II-9 in a consistent and efficient manner.

MSC 104/15/8 proposes a new output to review SOLAS chapters II-1 (Part C) and V to address both traditional and non-traditional propulsion and steering systems. A regulatory framework for all types of steering systems, including propulsion/steering systems, will provide the basis for a consistent evaluation of such systems helping to achieve IMO’s safety objectives.

MSC 104/15/25 proposes a new output to take further steps for the introduction of Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS) operations into IMO instruments.  The co-sponsors propose to develop a goal-based MASS instrument and associated non-mandatory instruments (i.e., guidelines for MASS operations).

MSC 104/INF.8 reports on the outcome of a GBS workshop, held on 19 July 2021, organized by the Secretariat and IACS in order to share views and information obtained during GBS verification audits and to close gaps of understanding between auditors and auditees with the aim of further improving and facilitating future audits.

IACS will also contribute to the discussions under agenda item 2 (Decisions of other IMO bodies), agenda item 6 (Goal-based new ship construction standards), agenda item 10 (Formal safety assessment), and agenda item 17 (Any other business).

Any enquiries on the above should be sent to Konstantin Petrov, IACS Accredited Representative to IMO, at arimo@iacs.org.uk

Noting the work IACS Members undertake as Recognized Organizations of IMO Member States, verifying compliance of ships with IMO agreed requirements, and with a view to achieve clarity for all parties, IACS has submitted the following papers under agenda item 3 (Amendments to the IGF Code and development of Guidelines for low-flashpoint fuels), and agenda item 11 (Unified interpretation of provisions of IMO Safety, Security, and environment-related conventions):

CCC 7/3/3 proposes amendments to part A-1 (paragraphs 5.12.1, 6.9.1.1, 9.8.1, 9.8.2, 9.8.4 and table 1 of chapter 15) and paragraph 18.4.1.1.1 of part C-1 of the IGF Code.

CCC 7/3/6 provides comments on the amendments to the IGF Code proposed in document CCC 7/3/1.  IACS offers modifications to improve the proposed text in paper CCC 7/3/1 related to paragraphs 8.4.1.3, 8.4.2 and 8.4.3 of the IGF Code.

CCC 7/3/7 provides key comments on the report of the Correspondence Group on the Development of Technical Provisions for the Safety of Ships Using Low-flashpoint Fuels contained in document CCC 7/3, to facilitate the consistent implementation of the amended IGF Code requirements.

CCC 7/11 provides a draft unified interpretation of paragraphs 11.3.4 and 11.3.7 of the International Code for the Construction and Equipment of Ships Carrying Liquefied Gases in Bulk (IGC Code) (resolution MSC.370(93)), which has been developed with a view to facilitating the consistent and global implementation of the Code’s requirements related to the location of manually operated isolation valves in the water spray system and fire main arrangements.

CCC 7/11/5 provides comments on the draft unified interpretation of paragraph 16.7.3.3 of the IGC Code proposed by INTERTANKO in the annex to document CCC 7/11/2.  IACS offers modifications to the proposed unified interpretation to clarify which areas should be provided with gas detection.

CCC 7/11/6 provides comments on the observations made by EUROMOT related to the draft unified interpretation of paragraph 9.2.2 of part A-1 of the IGF Code, as contained in document CCC 7/11/1.

IACS will also contribute to the discussions under agenda item 4 on Amendments to the IGC and IGF Codes to include high manganese austenitic steel and related guidance for approving alternative metallic material for cryogenic service.

Any enquiries on the above should be sent to Konstantin Petrov, IACS Accredited Representative to IMO, at arimo@iacs.org.uk

Recognising that the power of digitalisation needs to be fully leveraged to support the global imperative of decarbonization, and the cross-cutting nature of both work-streams, C83 agreed to an acceleration of IACS’ existing work program so that relevant outputs will be delivered in time to lead, influence and inform the decisions being made in shipowner and shipbuilders’ offices as well as in the IMO and other regulatory centres.

Concrete steps include the establishment of an Expert Group on the safety of new technologies and zero or very low carbon fuels; to develop high-level positions on these issues and possible related submissions to IMO, and a commitment to ensure that the short-term measures on GHG reduction recently agreed at IMO are capable of global and consistent implementation.

Building on IACS Information Paper on Remote Surveys, C83 also fast-tracked the development of an IACS UR or Recommendation for completion by October 2021 and reaffirmed its intention to engage deeply in discussions on a new output at MSC104.  Recognising the possibility of regulatory obstacles, C83 also expanded IACS work on modernizing SOLAS, committing to submitting a paper to MSC105 highlighting the need for the regulatory regime to keep pace with new technologies and welcoming the engagement of other industry bodies in this work.  Noting that digitalization can only be successful if cyber systems are secure, C83 also welcomed the progress toward the development of requirements for cyber resilience of on-board systems and equipment, the translation of Rec.166 on Cyber resilience of ships into an UR, incorporating the consideration of cyber risk into ISM and initiating discussions with industry on new proposals to IMO following the completion of its regulatory scoping exercise on Marine Autonomous Surface Ships.

C83 also saw Mr. Nick Brown, CEO Lloyd’s Register who was elected in April take up his position for what will be a 2½ year term.  Speaking to C83, he highlighted ‘the need for an even louder voice from IACS during this decade of rapid change as new technologies and new fuels need to be thoroughly understood and risks of adoption mitigated against.’

Noting the increasing calls for IACS to be more responsive, more visible, and more openly and proactively engaged on the big topics facing our industry, Mr Brown continued ‘There is lots for IACS to do and collaboration with all industry stakeholders will be key to our mutual success.’  In this context, Mr Brown paid tribute to Koichi’s Fujiwara’s achievements in delivering the significant governance changes necessary to ensure IACS maintains its unique ability to both contribute to, and harmonise, diverse work streams and to also give institutional effect to new ideas and practices.  As he handed over the Chair, Koichi Fujiwara said ‘IACS response to the COVID-19 pandemic and its rapid expansion of remote surveys was vital in ensuring business continuity in shipping while maintaining high safety standards.  I hope that the agility displayed in this instance will be replicated elsewhere as the new governance changes start to take effect.  I am proud to leave IACS well-positioned to assist industry and regulators in meeting the many challenges ahead.’

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Contact: Robert Ashdown, IACS Secretary General
E: robertashdown@iacs.org.uk T: +44 (0) 20 7976 0660

International Association of Classification Societies
Permanent Secretariat 4 Matthew Parker Street, London, England SW1H 9NP

E: permsec@iacs.org.uk

T: +44 (0)20 7976 0660

Noting the work IACS Members undertake as Recognized Organizations of IMO Member States, verifying compliance of ships with IMO agreed requirements, and with a view to achieve clarity for all parties, IACS has submitted or co-sponsored the following papers:

III 7/5/6 provides input to further update the 2019 Guidelines for port State control under MARPOL Annex VI Chapter 3 (resolution MEPC.321(74)) and comments on paper III 7/2/2, specifically on the outcome of PPR 7 under document PPR 7/2/5 (IMarEST).

III 7/15 proposes amendments to paragraph 6.5.5 of the draft model agreement to achieve alignment with paragraph 5.3.2.4 of the recommendatory part 3 of the RO Code.

III 7/INF.6 informs the Sub-Committee of the decision by IACS to harmonise the use of the term “condition of class” for all mandatory classification matters which must be attended to with respect to the condition of the ship and the consequent deletion of the term “recommendation” used for same purpose.

IACS will also contribute to the discussions under agenda item 4 (Lessons learned and safety issues identified from the analysis of marine safety investigation reports), agenda item 8 (Updated survey Guidelines under the Harmonised System of Survey and Certification), agenda item 14 (Any Other Business) and agenda item 15 (Review of the Model Agreement for the Authorisation of ROs).

Any enquiries on the above should be sent to Konstantin Petrov, IACS Accredited Representative to IMO, at arimo@iacs.org.uk

Noting the work IACS Members undertake as Recognized Organizations of IMO Member States, verifying compliance of ships with IMO agreed requirements, and with a view to achieve clarity for all parties, IACS has submitted or co-sponsored the following papers:

MEPC 76/3/7 proposing modifications to the model form of the International Anti-fouling System Certificate (IAFSC), taking into account the draft amendments to AFS Convention approved at MEPC 75, as set out in document MEPC 76/3/3. The proposed modification provides clarity and a unified approach on completing the IAFSC in order to avoid incorrect interpretations.

MEPC 76/6/4 and INF.28 discusses the amendments to the 2015 Industry Guidelines for Calculation and Verification of the Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI), and the role of the verifier in conducting the verification of EEDI.

MEPC 76/6/9 proposes amendments to the revised 2018 Guidelines on the method of calculation of the attained Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI) for new ships, to add a CF conversion factor between fuel consumption and CO2 emissions to be applied for ethane fuel.

MEPC 76/7/37 comments on the report of the Correspondence Group on the Development of Technical Guidelines on Carbon Intensity Reduction (TOR 3 and TOR 4), with particular reference to SEEMP verification and plans for corrective actions.

MEPC 76/7/47 proposes modifications to the draft guidelines on survey and certification of the attained EEXI, as set out in annex 2 to the report of the Correspondence Group on the Development of Technical Guidelines on Carbon Intensity Reduction (TOR 1) in document MEPC 76/7/4, and comments on the report of the Correspondence Group on the Development of Technical Guidelines on Carbon Intensity Reduction (TOR 2) in document MEPC 76/7/5.

IACS will also contribute to the discussions under agenda item 3 (Amendments to Mandatory Instruments), agenda item 6 (Energy Efficiency of ships), agenda item 7 (reduction of GHG Emissions from Ships) and agenda item 9 (Pollution Prevention and Response). It should be noted that paper MEPC 76/6/9 above is planned to be deferred to MEPC 77.

Any enquiries on the above should be sent to Konstantin Petrov, IACS Accredited Representative to IMO, at arimo@iacs.org.uk

IACS has actively contributed to the discussions in the Correspondence Group on the development of technical guidelines on carbon intensity reduction related to the EEXI framework, Carbon intensity Index (CII) framework, SEEMP and other relevant matters.  In this context and noting ISWG-GHG 8 is tasked to finalise the above-mentioned draft guidelines, IACS has submitted papers MEPC 76/7/37 and MEPC 76/7/47 commenting on the report of the Correspondence Group with a view to assisting the global and consistent implementation of the new requirements.  The report of the Correspondence Group (papers MEPC 76/7/4, MEPC 76/7/5 and MEPC 76/7/6) and all documents commenting on this report submitted to MEPC 76 will first be considered by ISWG-GHG 8.

Any enquiries on the above should be sent to Konstantin Petrov, IACS Accredited Representative to IMO, at arimo@iacs.org.uk

IACS’ high-level intervention at the IMO-Singapore Future of Shipping Conference last week once again demonstrated its commitment and ability to lead the industry through the challenges posed by digitalisation and decarbonisation and to deliver on its mission as a trusted partner of regulators with respect to the development of maritime regulations and to maintain classification as the primary mechanism for practical self-regulation of the maritime industry.

As the sole organisation representing the global classification industry, and as the IMO’s principal technical advisor with its own seat at IMO, the unparalleled strength and depth of the twelve-member Association in delivering on the key challenges facing the industry and its regulator is currently being emphasised in IACS work across such diverse issues as remote survey, complex systems and cyber safety as well as safety issues related to alternative fuels and novel technologies.

The new governance structure for IACS entering into force this year will further strengthen IACS’ ability to engage across multiple fronts simultaneously and to do so with the agility and speed necessitated by the pace and change of technology and regulatory demands.

Noting the plethora of initiatives that have emerged to meet various specific challenges – not least decarbonisation – the ability of IACS to both contribute to, and harmonise, these diverse work streams is unique as is its ability to give institutional effect to new ideas and practices.

IACS Chair, Koichi Fujiwara, said ‘IACS’ ability to be ahead and co-operate with regulators and industry on initiatives that can effectively promote maritime safety, protection of the environment and sustainability, provide practical real-world guidance to regulators and industry, and appropriately address maritime safety and environmental concerns is second to none.  I am proud to have overseen the necessary governance changes that will allow IACS to continue to fulfil this role into the foreseeable future.’

Incoming Chair, Nick Brown, stressed the key role of IACS, stating ‘The collective and individual knowledge and experience amongst the 12 IACS Members enables the timely development of institutional responses that reflect the changing demands of society and support innovation and new technologies; IACS’ Members are united in their commitment to working together to deliver on the practical implementation of safer, cleaner shipping.’

Contact: Robert Ashdown, IACS Secretary General
E: robertashdown@iacs.org.uk T: +44 (0) 20 7976 0660

International Association of Classification Societies
Permanent Secretariat 4 Matthew Parker Street, London, England SW1H 9NP

E: permsec@iacs.org.uk

T: +44 (0)20 7976 0660

Notes to Editors:

1. Dedicated to safe ships and clean seas, the International Association of Classification Societies (IACS) makes a unique contribution to maritime safety and regulation through technical support, compliance verification and research and development. More than 90% of the world’s cargo carrying tonnage is covered by the classification design, construction and through-life compliance Rules and standards set by the twelve Member Societies of IACS. 

2. More information on the work IACS has undertaken in response to the COVID19 pandemic can be found on our dedicated web-page http://iacs.org.uk/covid-19/ 

3. More information about IACS can be found by visiting iacs.org.uk and in our Annual Review available online at http://www.iacs.org.uk/about/iacs-annual-review/