Evergreen Achieves Fleet Compliance To ISPS Code

Evergreen Marine Corporation, one of the world’s largest containership operators, has achieved certification to the new International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code for its entire 75-vessel fleet. Auditors from the ABS Pacific Division have played a key role in helping the Taiwan-based container shipping company meet this landmark well in advance of the July 2004 implementation date. The Panamanian-flagged 4,211 teu Ever Develop was the last vessel in the fleet to be certified, completing all requirements by late March.

“With other companies struggling to meet the fast approaching deadline, this early compliance to the ISPS code for such a large global fleet speaks to the deep commitment of Evergreen for systems certification in support of safety, security quality and the environment,” said ABS President and CEO Robert Somerville. “Our longstanding relationship with Evergreen, through which we have provided classification services, ISM audits and certification to the rigorous combined ABS Safety, Quality and Environmental Management System (SQE) requirements helped speed the adoption of these new security measures.”

Evergreen started on its ISPS fleet certification in October 2003. “The speed with which the entire fleet has been brought into compliance with these new security standards is testament to the commitment shown by the management and staff of this forward thinking operator,” Somerville added.

Capt. Shiuan-Yu Kuo, Evergreen Marine Corp. Chairman, said: “In the interest of security and safety worldwide, it was a company goal to reach compliance before the deadline. To be able to achieve this goal three months early, and with the cooperation of ABS, ensures that our people, our customers and the world shipping community are aware of Evergreen’s commitment to this process.”

More than 200 ABS auditors have been trained to assist shipowners meet the IMO security requirements and, when required, the additional security-related standards established by ABS for gaining the optional ABS class notation for security (ABS SEC).