IACS Encourages Close Links With Port State Control

Commitment by leading classifi- cation societies to increasing dialogue and cooperation with Port State Control (PSC) authorities has been underlined by the International Association of Classification Societies' (IACS) latest involvement in a regional PSC seminar. Improved access to class data and the wide range of assistance available to PSC authorities were main themes in the association's recent presentation to the South Mediterranean in its Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Port State Control, staged in Tunis. The latest in a developing series, the presentation was given by Jim Smith, IACS' permanent representative to the IMO. Formalized cooperation and assistance with Port State Control and improved access to class and statutory data are two of seven marine safety initiatives introduced by IACS last year, which entered into full force in January.

"Our latest initiatives show that the key contribution being made by Port State Control to improved ship safety is fully recognized by IACS," said Mr. Smith. "IACS members consider it their duty to cooperate fully with Port State Control in effective identification of substandard ships — and in the process of corrective action for any safety deficiencies within the remit of class," he added.

A wider range of Transfer of Class and Ships in Operation Class Services data has now become more easily accessible to PSC authorities on request.