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Report highlights role of IACS and its members in developing technical rules and guidance to meet new and emerging safety issues facing global shipping

31 March 2025 – IACS, the membership organisation for the world’s leading classification societies, has published its 2024 Annual Review, which highlights the central role played by IACS in supporting safety standards in global shipping.

In a year that marked the 50^th anniversary of the adoption of the SOLAS Convention, safety was at the forefront of IACS’s work programme for 2024. This was exemplified by the new Safe Digital Transformation Panel, which began its important work to identify and mitigate any safety risks posed by shipping’s ongoing digital transformation.

Technical and digital advances featured heavily in IACS’s programme for 2024, including the significant challenge posed by new technologies and alternative fuels when it comes to the safety and reliability of engines and other onboard systems. IACS’s work in emerging fields was further highlighted by its work on remote surveys, which included the development of a new Unified Requirement to ensure uniform standards in the conduct of surveys undertaken without the presence of a surveyor.

The report also highlights other areas of important work, including safety standards for gas carriers, improvements to the implementation of the Safe Return to Port (SRtP) scheme for passenger ships, and further guidance to support compliance with ballast water management system (BWMS) standards. 2024 also saw extensive consultation with industry and Flag States on the ongoing comprehensive review of the IACS Common Structural Rules, which will continue into 2025 and until their expected adoption in four years’ time.

Although digital and technological innovation has been a core focus of IACS’s work, the human element has remained at the heart of IACS safety agenda. As the report explores, IACS has continued to invest heavily in training and guidelines that support the role of people, including the risks posed to and by people in a ship’s lifecycle.

Robert Ashdown, IACS Secretary General, commented: “2024 was an extremely busy year for IACS, which saw us deliver a diverse work programme, with safety at the heart of all we do, whether that was through our strong presence at IMO, our close collaboration and engagement with industry partners, or our new and revised rules, recommendations and guidance. Through the collective efforts of our team and our members, IACS is playing a significant role upholding our purpose of safer, cleaner shipping.”

Roberto Cazzulo, Chair of the IACS Council, said: “At a time of transformation for our industry, IACS has been at the forefront of setting the standards needed to keep vessels safe and to protect the environment, particularly when the world around us is being reshaped by digitalisation and decarbonisation. This pace of change also requires an agile, rapid response in order to address the technical and safety implications for shipping. Throughout 2024, IACS and our members proved their ability to deliver the expert guidance needed by our industry to help safeguard safety at sea.”

The report recognises IACS’s extensive programme of engagement and support for industry at a technical and strategic level with a wide range of regulatory authorities, representative bodies and other stakeholder groups, most notably at the IMO, where IACS works closely with the secretariat and member states to deliver on the shared safety vision of both organisations. In 2024, the collective contribution from IACS and its members resulted in 77 submissions to IMO, along with the co-sponsorship of a further 12 papers.

IACS also plays an important role as a convenor and partner with industry stakeholders through other initiatives, such as the Joint Industry Working Group (JIWG) on Safe Decarbonisation, which was established last year. Through regular technical meetings and workshops, the feedback and insight from these discussions has fed directly into IACS’s rules and recommendations.

Over 2024, IACS adopted 85 new or revised Resolutions and Recommendations for

implementation by its members, and the Annual Review provides a full list of all these, as well as those withdrawn. It also includes the ‘Class Report 2024’, which contains data on the global IACS fleet, broken down by the 12 IACS members.

The 2024 Annual Review is available for download at the IACS website at https://iacs.org.uk/about-us/annual-review. Hard copies are also available on request from the IACS Permanent Secretariat at permsec@iacs.org.uk.

Notes to Editors

For further information, please contact: IACS@blue-comms.com

About IACS

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.

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

 

The shift towards decarbonisation has placed a spotlight on reducing emissions from sea going vessels while at ports, where vessels often rely on auxiliary engines that contribute to GHG emissions. Onshore Power Supply (OPS), commonly referred to as “cold ironing” or shore-to-ship power has emerged as a promising solution, allowing vessels to connect to a land-based electrical grid while at berth, enabling their onboard generators to be switched off. This significantly reduces NOx (nitrogen oxides) and SOx (sulfur oxides) emissions, and particulate matter in port areas, contributing to cleaner air and healthier port communities.

Recognising the critical role of OPS in achieving global decarbonisation targets, the International Association of Classification Societies (IACS) has published recommendation, Rec. 182, a comprehensive framework to support the effective adoption of OPS systems. This recommendation provides detailed guidance for ship designers, builders, operators, and owners on integrating OPS systems into both newbuilds and retrofits, while addressing the technical and operational challenges associated with its implementation. This initiative not only aligns with the industry’s environmental and safety objectives but also supports the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) MSC.1/Circ.1675—Interim Guidelines on the Safe Operation of Onshore Power Supply (OPS) Service in Port for Ships Engaged on International Voyages. By emphasising interoperability, safety, and efficiency, it aims to ensure a seamless integration of this technology and outlines the following aspects to facilitate its adoption:

Ship Requirements for OPS: Ships engaged in international voyages should be equipped with ship-side installations capable of accepting shore power. This includes incoming power receptacles, shore connection switchgear, and necessary protections to ensure compatibility with shore-side systems.

Ship-to-Shore Connection Protocols: The recommendation outlines specific protocols for the connection of ship-side and shore-side systems, emphasizing the need for dedicated ship-side circuit installations to manage the connection and disconnection of power safely.

Testing Procedures for First Connection: At the first call at a shore supply point, ships should undergo mandatory tests, including visual inspections, insulation resistance measurements, functional tests of protection devices, and integration tests to ensure proper operation between ship and shore installations.

Periodic Testing Requirements: If the time between repeated port calls does not exceed 12 months and no modifications have been made, only limited verification tests are required. However, if the interval exceeds 12 months, comprehensive testing as outlined in the document should be conducted.

Operational Safety Measures: The recommendation emphasizes the importance of safety precautions during OPS operations, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), adherence to “lock out/tag out” procedures, and ensuring effective communication between ship and shore personnel during power connection and disconnection.

Documentation of OPS Procedures: Ships are required to maintain detailed documentation of OPS operation procedures, including circuit diagrams, compatibility assessments, and emergency shutdown protocols. This documentation is crucial for ensuring safe and efficient operations.

Pre-Connection Checklist: A comprehensive pre-connection checklist should be completed prior to connecting to shore power. This checklist should cover operational limitations, communication methods, and contact information for personnel in charge (PICs) to ensure all safety measures are in place.

Maintenance and Testing Plans: The planned maintenance program for OPS systems should include periodic testing and maintenance procedures to ensure ongoing reliability and safety of the equipment. This includes regular inspections and functional tests of all critical components.

Quality Assurance of Shore Supply: The recommendation highlights the necessity of assessing the quality of the shore power supply, including total harmonic distortion (THD) and voltage stability, to prevent potential damage to shipboard electrical systems and ensure a reliable power source during operations.

This recommendation addresses a long-standing need for standardised guidance to support the adoption of OPS systems, as voiced by maritime stakeholders. By aligning with the industry’s overarching goal of reducing ship-related pollution and enhancing operational safety, IACS aims to contribute to the development of sustainable ports and better shipping practices.

Commenting on the recommendation, IACS Machinery Panel Chair, Amir LOTFOLAZADEH stated, “The introduction of Rec. 182 underscores IACS’ commitment to advancing sustainable and safe maritime practices. We recognize the importance of shore power in achieving pollution reduction goals and are confident this guidance will drive the adoption of OPS systems industry-wide.”

Available now on the IACS website, this recommendation serves as a critical resource for all stakeholders, including shipyards undertaking vessel retrofits, designers creating future-ready ships, and operators working to meet regulatory and environmental objectives.

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

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 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/

The latest release of the Blue Book package continues to enhance IACS technical support to the shipping industry through our work and investment in technology, innovation, research and development both at the classification and statutory levels.

The IACS Blue Book is an electronic library of all technical resolutions adopted by IACS as a result of its technical work and remains the core reference work for the Association containing, as it does, all previous revisions of IACS publications and historical data. It is updated and published once a year. Together, these IACS publications illustrate well how the aims and objectives of IACS are delivered for the benefit of international shipping and contain:

• IACS Unified Requirements which IACS members incorporate into their Rules.
• Unified Interpretations of IMO convention requirements which IACS Members apply uniformly when acting on behalf of authorizing flag Administrations, unless instructed otherwise.
• Procedural Requirements governing practices among IACS Members.
• Recommendations relating to adopted resolutions that are not necessarily matters of Class but which IACS considers would be helpful to offer some advice to the marine industry.
• Quality Documents containing QSCS (IACS’ Quality System Certification Scheme) description, Quality Management System Requirements, Audit Requirements, ACB (Accredited Certification Bodies) requirements and other quality procedures.
• IACS Charter and IACS Procedures which define the purpose, aim and working procedures of the Association.

These publications are of interest to Ship Designers, Consultants, Shipbuilders, Classification Societies, Ship-owners, Shipbrokers, Insurers, Associations, Accredited Certification Bodies, flag States, Port State Control, MOUs and the shipping industry at large and are available for download, free of charge, at https://iacs.org.uk/resolutions/blue-book .

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

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 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/

Its people are any Class Society’s most valuable resource and their health and safety is paramount. In particular, protecting Class Surveyors who are often faced with various occupational health and safety (OHS) risks, requires robust measures to address the challenges they face during inspections and surveys. Recognising the critical need to address these risks, the International Association of Classification Societies (IACS) has published guidelines on safety standards for work, Rec. 184. With a focus on collaboration and sharing of experiences, this comprehensive document offers a structured approach aimed at enhancing safety practices, reducing incidents, and promoting uniform safety practices across the industry.

Designed to creating safer working conditions for surveyors and all personnel engaged in maritime operations, these guidelines outline critical measures to mitigate risks and addresses key areas such as risk assessments and situational awareness, ensuring that they are equipped to handle the hazards they may encounter.

By introducing these guidelines, IACS aims to enhance OHS standards, prioritising the safety and well-being of surveyors and all associated personnel. This initiative supports the development of consistent OHS practices across classification societies and contributes to a safer and more sustainable maritime industry.

Key highlights of the guidelines include:

Comprehensive Risk Management: The document provides guidance for surveyors to exercise appropriate risk assessment and situational awareness prior to commencing work for prevention of accidents, near-misses, injury or ill health to surveyors, associated personnel and damage to property.

Increased Focus on Collaboration: IACS encourages surveyors to share experiences and safety challenges to improve the overall safety culture across the maritime industry.

Fitness for Work: The guidelines emphasize the importance of physical and mental readiness, including undertaking all periodical medical checkups required by their society.

Fatigue Management: The guidelines stress the importance of ensuring adequate rest to prevent fatigue, which can impair performance and increase the risk of accidents.

  Empowering Surveyors to Use Stop Work Authority: Surveyors are empowered to stop work if they believe safety conditions are at risk, ensuring that corrective measures are taken before continuing with tasks.

Use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): The guidelines mandate the use of appropriate PPE and provide instructions on the maintenance and replacement of worn or damaged gear.

Standardised Safety Practices: The guidelines reinforce the importance of uniform safety practices, ensuring that surveyors adhere to a consistent set of safety protocols regardless of the work environment.

The guidelines further address activities that pose elevated OHS risks for surveyors, providing tailored recommendations to enhance safety. These include working at height, transfers between boats, and performing surveys in confined spaces or using rafts. The document also covers managing pressure tests, control of stored/electrical energy, and participation in sea trials. Additionally, it highlights precautions for exposure to extreme weather conditions, hazardous materials, and travel-related safety concerns, ensuring surveyors are equipped to navigate the varied risks associated with their roles.

The guidelines are now available on the IACS website and serve as a valuable resource for surveyors, classification societies, and industry stakeholders aiming to uphold the highest standards of safety.

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

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 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/

24 March 2025 – The International Association of Classification Societies (IACS) has published a new recommendation, Rec.186, that meets the need for a standardised approach to integrating Additive Manufacturing (AM), commonly referred to as 3D printing, into marine and offshore applications.

The maritime industry continues to embrace developments in manufacturing technologies to enhance efficiency and sustainability in shipbuilding and offshore operations. Additive Manufacturing (AM) has emerged as an alternative to traditional manufacturing processes by fusing materials to produce objects from a digital 3D model into a series of 2D cross sections for layer-by-layer physical prints, ultimately producing a 3D object. Unlike conventional methods such as casting, forging, and welding, AM offers greater design freedom, reduced material waste, and the potential for on-demand production. Its flexibility allows for localised production and customisation, providing tailored solutions for specialised marine and offshore applications.

‘Rec. 186: Additively Manufactured Metallic Parts for Marine and Offshore Applications’ establishes a framework for the qualification, approval, and certification of additively manufactured metallic parts. This recommendation provides detailed guidance for key aspects of the AM process, including part design, feedstock selection, AM processes, post-processing, and inspection/testing. By incorporating recognized international standards such as ISO/ASTM 52900 and AWS D20.1, it aligns AM technology with existing Unified Requirements, particularly UR W for materials and welding, ensuring equivalent reliability and safety.

To facilitate the safe and effective adoption of AM in the marine sector, the recommendation outlines the following key areas:

• Scope of AM Process:The recommendation covers Powder Bed Fusion (PBF), Directed Energy Deposition (DED), and Binder Jetting (BJT), with detailed process-specific parameters.
• Criticality Levels and Testing:Introduces tiered testing levels (AM Levels 1-3) for class and certified items, enabling customised testing based on application criticality.
• Feedstock and Material Standards:Specifies rigorous qualification processes for AM feedstocks, including powder, wire, and binder feedstocks, including recycling protocols for sustainability.
• Part Design and Qualification:Includes innovative provisions for design optimisation, topology adjustment, and pre-build simulation to ensure robust performance under marine conditions.
• Inspection and Non-Destructive Testing (NDT):Addresses anisotropic properties and potential imperfections (e.g., porosity, lack of fusion) through advanced NDT methods like CT scans.

Rec. 186 establishes a robust verification and certification framework, ensuring the safe and effective use of AM technology in critical marine contexts. Moving forward, IACS will continue to collaborate with stakeholders to expand the application of AM in safety-critical marine components. By encouraging shipyards, original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), and vessel operators to adopt AM, it paves the way for innovation in shipbuilding and offshore engineering, marking a pivotal step in the safe and standardized adoption of additive manufacturing.

Commenting on the publication of Rec. 186, Alexandre Astruc, Chair of IACS’ Expert Group on Materials & Welding, said:

“Additive manufacturing, or 3D printing, is increasingly becoming a valuable tool for the marine sector, offering a flexible, speedy and customisable solution for environments where the consequences for safety, sustainability or operational uptime can otherwise be significant. While its potential for rapid production is notable, its true strength lies in its ability to provide innovative, on-demand solutions tailored to complex maritime challenges. In developing Rec 186, IACS is seeking to safeguard the benefits offered by additive manufacturing by ensuring it is underpinned by a standardised framework for verification and certification that gives confidence to all parties.” 

For full details on Rec. 186, please visit here.

About IACS

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.

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