Christopher Wiernicki
IACS is very pleased that the IMO’s Maritime Safety Committee, at its 96th session, has recognised the IACS-developed rules regarding the goals and functional requirements of the International Goal-based Ship Construction Standards for Bulk Carriers and Oil Tankers (GBS).
IMO’s recognition that the IACS Common Structural Rules conform to the goals and functional requirements set down by the Maritime Safety Committee is a powerful endorsement that Class rules provide for the design and construction of ships that, in combination with proper operation and maintenance, will meet the mission of safety of life, property and protection of the environment throughout their service life.
IACS Chairman Christopher J. Wiernicki commented: ‘This monumental decision is the direct result of IACS and IMO collaboration which represents a new era in maritime safety. This IMO recognition, ahead of the entry into force of the relevant SOLAS amendment on 1 July 2016, reinforces IACS’ trusted technical advisory role.’
Wiernicki continued: ‘I commend the hard work carried out by the IACS Members, the IMO Secretariat and Secretary-General, and the IMO Audit Teams, who all have made significant contributions to bring this 14-year process to a very successful and timely conclusion. Our teams’ efforts today chart stronger relationships across the industry for many years to come and provide even further means for continuous improvement in Class Rules.
Wiernicki concluded: ‘IACS and IMO share a common objective of delivering safer ships on cleaner oceans. IACS anticipates deepening even further its close working relationship with the IMO and believes the Organisation’s recognition that our Members’ rules fully comply with the principles of GBS is a positive step for the entire maritime industry which will further enhance the ways in which we collaborate.’
