CLASSIFICATION SOCIETIES

A Classification Society is an independent, non-commercial, non- governmental and self-regulating body that establishes and maintains technical standards for the construction and operation of ships and offshore
structures. Classification societies validate and report that construction of a vessel is in accordance with relevant standards and carry out regular surveys in service to ensure continuing compliance with the standards.

The society has an obligation towards the insurance industry, Flag States, Port States, charterers, etc. in addition to the ship owners and the public, to be independent and impartial in the application of its expertise. A classification society’s contribution towards safety is considerable.

Worldwide, there are around 50 classification societies, out of which 13 are part of the International Association of Classification Societies (IACS).

A classification certificate issued by a classification society recognized by the proposed ship register is required for a ship’s owner to be able to register the ship and to obtain marine insurance on the ship, and may be required to be produced before a ship’s entry into some ports or waterways, and may be of interest to charterers and potential buyers.

To avoid liability, classification societies explicitly disclaims responsibility for the safety, fitness for purpose, or seaworthiness of the ship, but is a verification only that the vessel is in compliance with the classification
standards of the society issuing the classification certificate.

Work of the Classification Society:

1. The principal work of a classification society is to undertake surveys to ensure that the rules, which it has developed, are applied for new buildings and existing ships to ensure their safety. The rules cover hull structure, safety equipments, cargo handling gear, engine, machinery and other systems.
2. A Classification society conducts surveys on behalf of third parties, including the Flag State administration.
3. They act as a contractual reference between the yard and the owner.
4. They offer technical services and engineering consultation.
5. They conduct research and development in various ship-related fields.They assess and audit the QMS (Quality Management System) of ship management companies in accordance with the International standards.
6. They assess and audit the SMS (Safety Management System) of ship management companies and ships, in accordance with the ISM Code.
7. They assess and audit the Security Management system of ship management companies and ships, in accordance with the ISPS Code.
8. They assess and audit the Environmental Management System (EMS) of ship management companies and ships in accordance with the International Standards.
9. They assess and audit the Energy Management System of ship companies and ships , in accordance with the International Standards.
10. They assess and audit the Occupational Health Management System of ship management companies and ships, in accordance with the International Standards.
11. They approve machinery, materials and equipments that are used for ship building.
12. They conduct assessment of the quality system, production processes and the facilities of the manufacturer.
13. They carry out training of the personnel engaged in testing and measurement services used during surveys.
14. They evaluate drawings and documentation related to cargo loading appliances.

INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF CLASSIFICATION SOCETIES (IACS)

The International Association of Classification Societies (IACS) is a nongovernmental organization with the world’s leading classification societies as its members. More than 90% of the world’s cargo carrying tonnage is
covered by the Member Societies.

Presently, there are 13 members of IACS. They are as follows:

1. American Bureau of Shipping (ABS)
2. Bureau Veritas (BV)
3. China Classification Society (CCS)
4. Croatian Register of Shipping (CRS)
5. Det Norske Veritas (DNV)
6. Germanischer Lloyd (GL)
7. Indian Register of Shipping (IRS)
8. Korean Register of Shipping (KRS)Lloyd’s Register (LR)
9. Nippon Kaiji Kyokai (Class NK) (NK)
10. Polish Register of Shipping (PRS)
11. Registro Italiano Navale (RINA)
12. Russian Maritime Register of Shipping (RS)
    • Admission to IACS signifies high standards, excellent reputation and professional competence in maritime industry. Charterers, cargo owners and underwriters prefer vessels that are classed with an IACS member.
    • The chairmanship of IACS is on a rotational basis with each member society taking a turn.
    • IACS has observer status in IMO and co-operates closely with IMO, participating in the working teams of different IMO committees.
    • IACS develops, reviews and promotes minimum technical requirements in relation to the design, construction, maintenance and survey of the ships and other maritime related facilities.
    • It also assists other international regulatory bodies with a view to improve safety at sea and prevention of marine pollution.
    • IACS members conduct and sponsor extensive research and development programs, and have developed highly advanced engineering analysis and information management systems.

Repairs / Alterations to the Satisfaction of Class:

Whenever a vessel has suffered a damage involving the hull, machinery, electrical installations, special equipment and installations covered by the Classification, a ‘Damage and Repair survey’ falls due.

In such situations where a vessel has suffered damage, those damaged parts of the vessel must be accessible and available for inspection so that the surveyor can examine and ascertain the kind and extent of damage.

The proposed repair work must be agreed with the Class surveyor in such a way that possible confirmation of Class can be granted without reservations when the repair work is completed.

A Class confirmation in case of emergency repair needs to be approved by the Head office of that Society. Any surveys conducted during the repairs are done based on the latest experience and instructions by the Class.

In the case of repairs or replacements on older vessels, the construction rules which were in force when they were constructed continue to apply.

REASONS FOR CLASSIFICATION:

1. Shore based parties, associated with ship’s business like charterers, brokers, bankers, shippers and underwriters, would prefer to have business with the ship owner only when the ship is classed.
2. In the absence of the classification, the ship owner by himself will have to satisfy the Flag State that the ship has sufficient structural strength for assigning load line and to issue a Safety construction certificate.
3. Insurance premiums are lower.
4. Ship is likely to be sea-worthy.
5. Cargo charterers are easier to obtain.
6. Resale value is higher.
7. Owner builds a good reputation in the industry.
8. Required under International Conventions such as SOLAS, UNCLOS, etc. When a ship is classed, the ship owner enjoys commercial advantages and also has a benchmark to ensure ship’s constructional and operational condition is satisfactory.

CERTIFICATE OF CLASS:

A classification society, contracted by the ship owner, carries out surveys at the yard throughout the construction period and a Certificate of Class is issued to the ship upon satisfactory completion of the required surveys.

The Certificate certifies that the ship has been surveyed by the surveyors of the society and the condition of the hull, machinery and equipment have been found in compliance with the Class requirements.

The Certificate will remain valid for a period of 5 years, unless it is withdrawn or suspended by the Class.

The Certificate will reflect the Name of the ship, builder / yard details, Owner details, Port of Registry, signature of the Authorized person from the Society and the Society’s stamp.

The validity of the Class Certificate is subject to successful and timely completion of the following surveys:

1. Annual Survey, Intermediate Survey and Class Renewal / Special Survey
2. Bottom Survey or Docking Survey
3. Tail Shaft Survey, Boiler & Machinery Surveys
4. Surveys for the maintenance of additional Class notations.

A ship is maintained in class, provided that the ship has carried out required surveys in accordance with the Classification Rules and the surveys confirm that the condition of her hull, machinery and equipment remain to be in compliance with the applicable rules at the time of the survey.

Whenever there is any damage, failure or deterioration to hull, machinery or equipment which affects the Classification, the Society must be informed so such damage. Necessary repairs should be carried out to the surveyor’s satisfaction in order to maintain the vessel in Class.

A complete repair procedure, including the extent of proposed repair and the need for a surveyor’s attendance, should be submitted to Class and agreed by the Class in advance. Failure to notify may result in suspension of vessel’s classification until the society is satisfied with the repairs.

SCOPE OF SURVEYS:

Every classed vessel is subject to a specified program of periodic surveys after delivery. These surveys are based on a five-year cycle and consist of annual surveys, an intermediate survey and a Class renewal or special survey (held every 5 years). The severity of each specified survey increases with the age of the vessel.

1. Annual Survey: It is carried out within a window period of 3 months before or after each anniversary date. It includes an external, general inspection of the hull, machinery and equipment of the ship and tests to determine whether the vessel satisfies the rule requirements. Older ships of certain types may be subject to a general examination of some specified internal areas of the hull.
2. Intermediate Survey: It is held approximately half way between the Special surveys. It includes examinations and checks to determine that the ship remains in a condition which satisfies the rule requirements. According to the type and age of the ship, dry-docking and ultrasonic thickness measurements may be required.
3. Class Renewal Survey or Special Survey: A special survey includes extensive out-of-water examinations to verify that the structure, main and auxiliary machinery, systems and equipment of the ship remain in a condition which satisfies the Rules. The survey assesses the structural integrity and identifies areas that exhibit substantial corrosion, significant deformation, fractures, damages or other structural deterioration. Depending upon ship’s age, type and condition, the survey may take several weeks to complete.
4. Bottom/docking Survey: It is the examination of the external part of the hull and related fittings. It is carried out twice in a 5 year period, with a gap of not less than 36 months between the two surveys. It is carried out at drydock (dry-docking survey) or when afloat (in-water survey). In-water survey may be accepted in lieu of dry-docking survey depending on the type of ship and her age.

SUSPENSION OR WITHDRAWAL OF CLASS:

This can happen under the following circumstances:

1. When a ship is not operated in compliance with the rule required. For example, trade outside navigational restrictions for which a class is assigned
2. When a ship proceeds to sea with a less freeboard than that assigned or when the freeboard marks are placed higher than assigned
3. When the owner fails to request a survey after having detected defects or damages affecting the class.
4. When repairs, alterations or conversions affecting the class are carried out without requesting the attendance of a surveyor or not to the satisfaction of surveyor.

In addition to the above, the Class is automatically suspended if –

1. When any one or more survey has become overdue and has not been completed by end of the corresponding survey time window.
2. When a recommendation or condition of class is not dealt with within the time limit specified.
3. During an annual survey if any CSM item is due or overdue.
4. When due to nature of defects, the society considers that a ship is not entitled to retain its class even on a temporary basis

The society will withdraw the class of a ship when –

1. If requested by owner.
2. The class has been suspended for more than six months.
3. When a ship is reported as a constructive total loss and the owner does not have intentions to repair the ship for reinstatement of class.
4. The ship is reported lost.
5. The ship is reported scrapped / put out of service.

CONDITION OF CLASS (COC) AND CLASS MEMO

When a surveyor identifies corrosion, structural defects or damage to the hull, machinery or any piece of equipment, which affects the ship’s Class, remedial measures or recommendations or Conditions of Class are
implemented before the ship continues in service.

Condition of Class is imposed by the society for the defects which will affect the class if not complied with by the assigned due date. Condition of class is a defect or fault of hull/machinery/equipment, repair of which cannot be left to the discretion of the Owner. This is only given to the class items i.e. items that affect the ship’s Class. These require specific measures, repairs and request for survey, etc. to be carried out within a specified time period in order to retain class.

Class Memorandum or Memo is the information to the Owner given by the Class, regarding certain item/area to look at. It is noted as a memo for assistance to the Owner and the next surveyor. e.g. notes concerning material, minor defects, etc. A memoranda may also be defined a condition which, though at that moment does not affect the Class, but if left at that condition for a long time, has the potential of affecting the Class. e.g. slight indent on shell, or minor deficiency of machinery, etc.

CLASS NOTATION

Classification notation consists of words, acronyms, letters and abbreviation that describe a vessel’s restrictions, service or applicable survey characteristics & any other specific requirements met by the vessel.

Each Classification society has a system to certify a ship by giving notation on the basis of ship type, service, navigation and other criteria, provided by the Owner and / or the builder.

Class notations that are assigned to a ship are indicated on the ship’s Certificate of Class as well as in the Register of Ships published by the society. Class notations convey very important information.

Examples of Class Notations are:

1. Main Class Symbol – Express compliance of the ship with specific rule requirements regarding machinery and equipment.
2. Construction Marks – Identifies the Classification society that supervised the ship during construction.

3. Type Notation – Defines the type and/or service of the ship. This is given after fulfillment of specific rule requirements for that type/service.
4. Service Area Restrictions – Defines limiting areas for navigation e.g. high seas, coastal, Ice Class, etc.
5. Additional Class Notations – defines the special features such as additional equipment or any other specific arrangements.

ROLE OF CLASS AS A RECOGNIZED ORGANISATION (RO)

Under UNCLOS, a Flag State has to effectively exercise its jurisdiction and control in administrative, technical and social matters over a ship flying its flag to ensure safety at sea. Many Flag States delegate this responsibility to Classification Societies in order to take advantage of their expertise and worldwide network of surveyors.

When authorized by the Flag State, a Classification Society acts as a Recognized organization. The RO, on behalf of the Flag State, carries out surveys and inspections to verify the vessel’s compliance with International
and National Statutory requirements, such as,

1. International Convention on Load Lines, 1966
2. International Convention on Tonnage Measurements of Ships, 1969
3. International Convention for the safety of life at sea, 1974, as amended.
4. International Convention for the prevention of pollution from ships, 1973/78, as amended.
5. International Convention for preventing collisions at sea
6. International Code of safe practices for Solid Bulk Cargoes.
7. ISM Code
   • The Flag lays down the scope of these surveys and inspections in compliance with the relevant international conventions to which it is a signatory.
   • These surveys do not fall within the scope of the classification of ship, even though their scope may overlap is part and may be carried out concurrently with Class surveys.
   • Whenever a ship is suspended or withdrawn from Class, the Class notifies the Flag concerned and the statutory certificates are invalidated.
   • The Class may also be authorized by the Flag to do the work of a RSO (Recognized Security Organisation). If so, the Class will conduct a security assessment, verify compliance with the ISPS Code and SOLAS and issue the certificate accordingly.

STATUTORY AND MANDATORY SURVEYS / CERTIFICATES

A survey can be termed to be holistic (somewhere interconnected) examination of a marine vessel or structure to assess, monitor and report on their condition with respect to an established Convention, Statute, Rule,
Regulation or Protocol.

The surveys are very important to determine whether the vessel is being built and operated in a manner that is safe for use in the conditions it is designed for, and its compliance to both statutory and mandatory rules and
regulations.

The periodical surveys also help to determine if and what maintenance or repairs may be needed in the near future.

The end product of every survey is certification or the denial of certification if the survey finds deviations from the regulatory processes.

Surveys are required under Flag / Port state statutes, IACS Rules, Conventions, Protocols, Codes, Rules and Regulations.

When the classification survey is taken as an evidence of compliance with the corresponding statutory requirement, e.g. safety equipment, it is given the status of a statutory survey on behalf of the Flag Administration, with the Classification Society being considered as the Recognized Organisation.

Statutory Surveys / Certificates:

1. Statutory certificates are those that are required to be carried on board a ship as per the formal written enactment of a legislative authority that governs the Flag State. In the case of India, they are the Rules and
   Regulations under the enabling legislation i.e. Merchant Shipping Act.
2. A survey resulting in the issue of such certification is known as a Statutory survey.
3. This process is carried out by Flag State surveyors or by a RO, which is usually a Classification Society with membership in the IACS.

Mandatory Survey / Certificates

1. Mandatory certificates are those required to be carried onboard a ship as per the Conventions, Protocols, Resolutions and Codes of the IMO and Class Rules. These are required by ships which trade internationally and for insurance purposes.

2. A survey resulting in the issue of such certification is known as a Mandatory survey.

It should be noted that Statute originates from the acceptance of IMO Codes, Conventions and Protocols. Therefore, a Statutory list and a Mandatory list of certificates will have a lot in common.

Obligatory certificates are those that are required by a port state with which the vessel is trading.