IACS Updates Strategy and Elects New Chairman

The International Association of Classification Societies (IACS) has updated its forward strategy and work plan for the upcoming year at its 69th Council meeting held in Santa Margherita, Italy, chaired by Roberto Cazzulo, Chairman of RINA Services and outgoing IACS chairman.

During the three days of Council high-level meetings were held with the IMO Secretary-General and Industry representatives, who participated at relevant sessions of the Council meeting. The Secretary General thanked IACS for its continuing technical advisory work at the IMO and set out a number of current IMO initiatives including the effective implementation of IMO instruments on which IACS is advising.

The two key topics discussed and agreed at Council were:
1. The continued work program in order to meet the schedule for the entry into force of the IACS Common Structural Rules for oil tankers and bulk carriers on July 1, 2015 and relevant IMO verification of compliance with the IMO Goal Based Standards for new ships’ design and construction.
2. The continued work to develop functional requirements for structural safety of post-Panamax containerships.

Additionally, Philippe Donche-Gay, Executive Vice-President and Head of the Marine & Offshore Division, Bureau Veritas, was elected as Chairman of IACS with effect from July 1, 2014.

iacs.org.uk