IACS releases new “Blue Book”

FEBRUARY 4, 2014 — The International Association of Classification Societies has released the latest version of what it still calls the IACS “Blue Book,” though it’s actually a zip file.

The “IACS Blue Book, Version January 2014”.is an electronic library of technical resolutions (both past and present) adopted by IACS as a result of its technical work and provides an example of how the aims and objectives of the Association are delivered for the benefit of international shipping. It contains

• IACS “Unified Requirements” which IACS members incorporate into their Rules
• “Unified Interpretations” of IMO convention requirements which IACS Members apply uniformly when acting on behalf of authorizing flag Administrations, unless instructed otherwise
• “Procedural Requirements” governing practices among IACS Members
• “IACS Charter” and “IACS Procedures” which define the purpose, aim and working procedures of the Association
• “Recommendations” relating to adopted resolutions that are not necessarily matters of Class but which IACS considers would be helpful to offer some advice to the marine industry
• “UR – Unified Requirements Status” advising on implementation status
• HF & TB for UR, UI, PR & Rec. containing the History and Technical Background files for the Unified Requirements, Unified Interpretations, Procedural Requirements and Recommendations
• “Quality Documents” containing QSCS (IACS’ Quality System Certification Scheme) description, Quality Management System Requirements, Audit Requirements, ACB (Accredited Certification Bodies) requirements and other quality procedures

The latest version of the Blue Book is available for downloading from the IACS website at www.iacs.org.uk/publications.

Ship designers, consultants, shipbuilders, classification societies, shipowners, shipbrokers, insurers, associations, accredited certification bodies, flag states, port state control, MOUs and the shipping industry at large are able to download the package free of charge at any time.