UN seeks governing authority over shipbuilding standards

The UN's International Maritime Organisation (IMO) is assuming jurisdiction over the quality of world shipbuilding, first moving into the realm of tankers and bulkers, the Shipping Gazette reports.

"Leaving classification societies, ship designers and naval architects, marine engineers and shipbuilders to decide on how best to meet standards is a sound one," said IMO secretary-general Efthimios Mitropoulos.

Nonetheless, through the IMO's Maritime Safety Committee, the UN will soon adopt guidelines under the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) from which procedures to which shipbuilders must adhere will emerge, said a statement from the group.

IMO secretary-general Efthimios Mitropoulos said adopting "goal based standards" is important in terms of future regulations and compliance.

(Source:www.transportweekly.com)