American Bureau of Shipping

ABS is one of the world’s leading classification societies. Its mission is to promote the security of life, property and the natural environment primarily through the development of standards for the design, construction and operational maintenance of marine related facilities.

From conceptual design through until decommissioning, an ABS classed vessel will be evaluated, constructed and surveyed to standards that have been carefully developed by ABS, in close cooperation with industry, to be technically comprehensive, that incorporate the latest risk management concepts and yet are practical and easy to apply.

Within ABS the recognition of the need to protect our natural environment is integral to the rules and technology development process and in the provision of classification services to the marine industry.

The extensive global network of skilled ABS surveyors and engineers are able to provide support to clients from the initial design concept, through the design approval process, during construction and throughout the service life of the vessel. ABS staff work closely with client shipowners to assist them in the implementation of appropriate health, safety, quality, security and environmental management systems.

ABS has three operating divisions, Americas, Pacific and Europe with an international network of local offices to support client operations.