IACS is an association of Classification Societies which:
- establishes, reviews, promotes and develops minimum technical requirements in relation to the design, construction, maintenance and survey of ships and other marine related facilities.
- acts as a catalyst to assist international regulatory bodies and standard organisations to develop, amend and interpret regulations and industry standards in ship design, construction and management, with a view to improving safety at sea and the prevention of marine pollution.
- provides a Quality System Certification Scheme (QSCS) that its Members shall comply with, as an assurance of professional integrity and maintenance of high professional standards.
IACS has a wide perspective on relevant matters through monitoring the developments in EU legislation related to shipping safety and environmental performance in addition to its technical advisory role to the IMO and its interaction with the industry and flag states. IACS technical representatives can therefore bring cross-cutting knowledge and experience from one forum to another.