DNV’s highest governing body, the DNV Council, expresses appreciation for the introduction of common rules, leading to increased safety at sea.

The common rules are now completed after 5 years of intensive work. At their meeting on May 8th the Council underlined that the rule development had involved a large number of DNV professionals.

On April 1st IACS Common Structural Rules for Tankers and Bulk Carriers both entered into force. There still remains some harmonisation to be made between the two rule sets. This work will be a priority in the months to come with the overall purpose of aligning the levels of safety and robustness.

DNV has contributed primarily to the new rules for design and construction of tanker structures. These rules represent an increased level of safety and robustness compared to present rules. During the development process inputs from both shipbuilders and shipowners have been sought. The rules, now the IACS Common Structural Rules for Tankers, reflect the accumulated knowledge and experience of the maritime industry.

The DNV Council expressed their support for the new common rules and concluded that DNV through this process has contributed to safer ships, in line with DNV’s objective of safeguarding life, property and the environment.

Date: 2006-05-08