They deliver classification services by providing third party engineering analyses, followed by periodical verification of the ship's hull structure and mechanical and electrical systems, and provide statutory certification in accordance with various international and national requirements on behalf of flag administrations. These combined functions of classification and statutory work have the great advantage of one organisation applying the necessary classification and mandatory statutory certification requirements to verify the ship's structural integrity and the fitness for purpose of essential engineering systems, throughout its service life. This capability is a mandatory pre-requisite for an organisation to provide statutory services on behalf of a flag administration. The classification certificate is the document which confirms that a ship has been designed and built in accordance with the society's rules and, in this respect, is fit for its intended service. To maintain its class while in service, a ship must be surveyed annually, with major surveys every five years.
Surveys become increasingly stringent as ships get older.
It follows that statutory certification issued on the basis of satisfactory classification will thus be rendered invalid. Through their extensive resources of manpower, expertise and technology, IACS Members have the capability to undertake surveys, maintain records and conduct the technical reviews necessary to fulfil the requirements of the various IMO international conventions and codes. Based also on the national standards imposed by individual flag states, IACS Members undertake statutory work on behalf of individual IMO member states. This continuous process of development, together with essential feedback from service experience, results in a rolling update of classification rules to meet new demands in sea transport and marine technology and to keep classification at the forefront of technical standards. Safe and efficient use of composite materials Technical Advisory Services IACS Members aim to provide services to benefit the industry, and a variety of technical advisory services are available to shipowners and operators.