CLASSIFICATION AND CERTIFICATION

Safety in maritime classification and certification

Safety is not just a service at DNV – it is our purpose. As the world’s leading classification society, we safeguard life, property, and the environment by ensuring vessels meet the highest technical and safety standards. Our classification services form the foundation of trusted, resilient, and compliant shipping operations worldwide.

DNV provides statutory certification on behalf of flag states for international conventions such as SOLAS, MARPOL, and ISM. Through independent verification, we help shipowners build and maintain vessels that are resilient, compliant, and future-ready.

Why is classification so important for maritime safety?

Classification is essential for maritime safety because it ensures that every vessel – from design through decommissioning – meets rigorous international safety and environmental standards. DNV's trusted classification services provide shipowners, operators, and regulators with confidence that vessels are designed, constructed, and operated according to the highest benchmarks.

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DNV provides comprehensive classification and certification services that support safety throughout a vessel’s lifecycle. These services verify compliance with international regulations and technical standards, ensuring that vessels are designed and operated with safety at the forefront. Our work includes statutory certification for key IMO conventions, helping shipowners navigate regulatory complexity with confidence.

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Our global network of surveyors conducts inspections, ranging from newbuilding verification to in-service surveys and incident investigations. These activities are essential to maintaining safety across the operational lifespan of a vessel. DNV also offers digital and remote survey options, enabling more efficient processes and deeper insights. These innovations reflect our commitment to modernizing classification services and supporting the industry’s digital transformation.

^{Rules and standards ensuring the highest levels of maritime safety}

DNV’s rules and standards are continuously updated to reflect emerging risks and technologies. While remaining aligned with IMO conventions, our frameworks address new challenges related to decarbonization, digitalization, and alternative fuels. By evolving our standards in step with industry transformations, we ensure that the highest safety standards continue to be reached throughout the maritime industry.