American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) News

ABS completed a four-year effort to develop a training module to enhance safety training for commercial fishermen. The project delivered a web-based training platform with materials focused on six major categories of safety risks related to fishing vessel dynamic stability. Computational fluid dynamics and modern rendering techniques were adopted to make the simulations as realistic as possible. Awareness of safety risks “This work shows the unwavering efforts of ABS to promote the secu...

ABS Chairman and Chief Executive, Christopher J. Wiernicki was named International Personality of the Year at the Lloyds List Greek Shipping Awards, the second time he has received the honour. The accolade followed ABS being named Number One Classification Society by Gross Tonnage in the annual Lloyds List ranking of the Top 10 Class Organisations. ABS’ flagship global locations Wiernicki, who this week was also placed 72 in the Lloyds List ranking of the Top 100 People in Shipping, sai...

ABS has granted approval in principle (AIP) to Seagate Space for their unmanned semi-submersible launch platform – the first offshore asset to receive AIP under the newly published ABS Requirements for Offshore Spaceports. “Safety and precision are critical to the success of offshore space launch operations. This AIP reflects both ABS’ and Seagate Space’s commitment to advancing innovative technologies that enable reliable and efficient launch operations in a fast-e...

ABS issued approval in principle (AIP) to Hanwha Ocean Co. Ltd. for remote control functions for floating production storage and offloading (FPSO) units. ABS completed design reviews based on the ABS Requirements for Autonomous and Remote-Control Functions. Offshore Technology Collaboration Agreement (OTCA) The project is part of the Offshore Technology Collaboration Agreement (OTCA) between ABS and Hanwha Ocean, which enables the companies to collaborate on a series of cutting-edge projects...

ABS issued an approval in principle (AIP) to Encomara for its Squid™ system, a novel approach that adapts proven disconnectable mooring technology to support floating offshore wind developments. The Squid™ system builds upon the established Disconnectable Turret Buoy (DTB) concept long used in floating production projects. By utilising existing, well-understood offshore technology and installation methods, the system aims to enhance safety and reduce complexity during floating wind...

The latest industry-pioneering analysis from ABS, Retrofits for Energy and Emissions Improvements, provides critical insights into the impact of retrofitting, including classification and statutory requirements, as well as best practices for implementation. This report builds upon the conclusions presented in the ABS 2025 Outlook, Beyond the Horizon: Vision Meets Reality. With an array of retrofit options available, each offering potential improvements dependent on a range of factors,...

ABS issued an approval in principle (AIP) to Petrobras for its safety-enhancing “sandwich hull” design concept for floating production storage and offloading (FPSO) tanks. The design uses parts of longitudinal and transverse elements constructed with steel-concrete-steel sandwich structures that allow tanks to remain free of internal obstructions, promising to improve operational efficiency during tank inspections and enabling activities to be performed using remotely operated tools...

The Maritime Technologies Forum (MTF) now announced the publication of guidelines for conducting qualitative risk assessments for alternative-fuelled ships: HAZID and HAZOP. The use of alternative fuels will be key to addressing the ‘2023 IMO Strategy on Reduction of GHG Emissions from Ships.’ While IMO has developed guidelines for design and operation of ships capable of using them, the Alternative Design and Approval process is required for most alternative fuels until mandatory r...

ABS issued approval in principle (AIP) to Samsung Heavy Industries (SHI) for its innovative HyfloWind Float, a novel hybrid floating offshore wind structure designed to enhance production efficiency and streamline deployment processes. The HyfloWind Float features a unique concrete-based steel composite design, diverging from traditional all-steel structures. This innovative approach facilitates local fabrication in regions where steel manufacturing capabilities are limited, helping lower the c...

ABS issued a product design assessment (PDA) certificate to Samsung Heavy Industries for its condition-based maintenance system, SCBM. The SCBM system has earned a SMART (MHM) Tier 2 PDA from ABS, signifying that it meets the functional and system requirements listed in the ABS Guide for Smart Functions for Marine Vessels and Offshore Units. ABS’s comprehensive standards This achievement highlights the system’s compliance with ABS’s comprehensive standards for innovativ...

The ABS Board of Directors has elected John McDonald as the new Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of ABS at a board meeting on November 11. In the culmination of a well-planned succession process, McDonald, the serving ABS President and Chief Operating Officer, will take over on January 1, 2026, when present ABS Chairman and CEO Christopher J. Wiernicki retires. McDonald said: “I am honored to lead this remarkable organisation. I do so with deep respect for the legacy of technical exc...

ABS and the Korean Agency for Technology and Standards (KATS) signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to explore the international standardisation of smart ship and shipyard technologies related to shipbuilding and ship maintenance, repair and overhaul. Through a series of joint workshops and seminars, the organisations will exchange information to strengthen international standardisation capabilities and streamline certification procedures for Korean equipment manufacturers. The MOU also a...

ABS and Siemens Digital Industries Software (DISW) have signed a memorandum of understanding to accelerate the digital transformation of maritime classification processes across ship design and construction. The collaboration will also advance product lifecycle management (PLM) technology to enhance efficiency, data integrity and regulatory compliance throughout the vessel life cycle. Digital twin and simulation capabilities The MOU establishes a framework for both organisations to collaborat...

Shipping has entered a Maritime 5.0 world defined by rapid change, artificial intelligence, advanced fuels, and digital ecosystems, where decisive leadership is critical for success. That was the message to the industry from ABS Chairman and Chief Executive, Christopher J. Wiernicki in a keynote address at the North American Marine Environment Protection (NAMEPA) Awards at SUNY Maritime College. Set of guiding principles “In this new era, change and technology will dominate our conversa...

Maritime industry pioneers explored the opportunities and critical challenges in the revitalisation of U.S. shipbuilding and maritime infrastructure at the ABS North America Regional Committee Meeting. The committee heard from ABS specialists on key regulatory, technology and market factors driving a wave of change for the global industry, making training to upskill seafarers in dynamic fuels, digital systems, and energy efficiency technologies more important than ever. Christopher J. Wiernick...

ABS granted approval in principle (AIP) for Samsung Remote Operation Centre (SROC), a remote operation management solution designed to enhance the efficiency and safety of maritime vessels and offshore units. The technology was reviewed by ABS for compliance in accordance with the ABS Requirements for Autonomous and Remote-Control Functions, recognising its remote operational capability to manage auxiliary and industrial processes, cargo handling, and ballast and trim machinery functions....

With improved safety for offshore operations as the objective, ABS launched ABS EagleTwin, a web-based structural digital twin solution tailored for FPSO, FLNG and FSRU owners and operators. ABS EagleTwin provides an interactive 3D digital representation of an offshore asset to enable more informed decision-making for repair and inspection operations. The new tool integrates inspection and Class data, connecting with any brand of Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS) and giving ope...

ABS awarded approval in principle (AIP) to Samsung Heavy Industries (SHI) for its novel design of a wireless fire and gas detection system that advances safety in maritime operations. Conventional detection systems use power cables to transmit signals to a control panel. The new design from SHI uses a vessel’s metal structure as the low-voltage power transmission medium. Similarly, signals from the fire detection and alarm devices are converted into magnetic waves and transmitted wir...

ABS has appointed David Wechsler, a Founding Partner of the firm that became Hitachi Consulting, as the new Chief Executive Officer for ABS Group. Wechsler has a distinguished 35-year career in management consulting leadership positions across manufacturing, consumer products, sustainable energy, automotive, technology and services industries. He has grown multiple consulting practices, demonstrating expertise in heading complex operations and driving growth. Wealth of experience Christopher...

ABS and the Korea Research Institute of Ships & Ocean Engineering (KRISO) signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to cooperate on the application of small modular reactors (SMRs) in the marine and offshore sectors. The agreement establishes a framework for both organisations to exchange information and engage in joint research projects related to concept designs for an SMR-powered ship and a floating SMR power generation platform. Among the objectives are identifying and developing appli...

ABS hosted the second edition of the Middle East Women in Maritime Summit at the Address Dubai Mall, gathering more than 150 industry professionals to celebrate the expanding role of women in the region’s maritime sector. Themed “Advancing Women in Maritime – Challenges and Opportunities,” the summit showcased stories of leadership and mentorship across the Middle East’s fast-growing maritime ecosystem. Keynote address Guests of honour included Her Excellency Eng...

In a landmark deal to deliver immersive, next-generation training at scale to the maritime industry, ABS has signed an agreement to purchase the MetaSHIP intellectual property and related vessel simulator software assets from Orka Informatics as part of the strategic growth plan for ABS Training Solutions. The acquisition, subject to Turkish regulatory approval, will allow ABS to expand its highly realistic digital training program, which can be delivered on board, in port or at home, as well a...

An advanced design of an ammonia vent treatment system from HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering (HD KSOE) received approval in principle (AIP) from ABS and the Liberian International Ship and Corporate Registry (LISCR). Ammonia vent treatment system The ammonia vent treatment system integrates compact scrubbers to treat ammonia fuel, which can escape during the purging process, to maintain safe concentration levels before discharge through the vent mast. HD KSOE says this design...

ABS has launched the Saudi Arabia Technology Center dedicated to industry-pioneering work on smart systems, robotics, AI and advanced digital technologies. Launched during the Saudi Maritime Logistics Congress, the pioneering research centre supports the Kingdom’s maritime strategy for global pioneership in shipping. Patrick Ryan, ABS Senior Vice President and Chief Technology Officer said: “We are witnessing unprecedented technology innovation in our industry, and this centre will...

ABS granted approval in principle (AIP) for VesselWise, a next-generation autonomous technology for optimising propulsion to improve fuel efficiency and enhance operational stability. The technology was developed by HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering (HD KSOE), HD Hyundai Heavy Industries (HD HHI) and HD Hyundai Marine Solution (HD HMS) for LNG carriers. ABS grants AIP for VesselWise The technology was reviewed by ABS for compliance in accordance with the ABS Requirements for Au...

ABS awarded a statement of compliance certificate to AVIKUS Co., Ltd., for the fuel-saving verification framework that AVIKUS has developed for HiNAS Control, an autonomous navigation system. ABS joined AVIKUS, shipping company HMM Co., Ltd., and the Liberian International Ship and Corporate Registry in a project to assess the fuel-saving potential of the navigation system by analyzing ship performance data from vessels with HiNAS Control installed. A verification framework was developed by AV...

ABS is supporting the marine industry in Alaska with a team of surveyors in key locations, enabling faster response times for inspection, survey and classification projects. Expanding its U.S. West Coast footprint, ABS is establishing a physical presence in Anchorage at the Port of Alaska. The port is the state’s key transportation hub, handling 75 percent of Alaska’s imports. The new site joins other ABS locations along the U.S. West Coast in Seattle, Portland, San Francisco, Los...

ABS granted approval in principle (AIP) for VesselWise, a next-generation autonomous technology for optimising propulsion to improve fuel efficiency and enhance operational stability.  The technology was developed by HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering (HD KSOE), HD Hyundai Heavy Industries (HD HHI) and HD Hyundai Marine Solution (HD HMS) for LNG carriers. The technology was reviewed by ABS for compliance in accordance with the ABS Requirements for Autonomous and Remote-Contr...

ABS issued approval in principle (AIP) to Samsung Heavy Industries (SHI) for its SnapWind Float, a new design of a semi-submersible-type floating offshore wind turbine.  The SnapWind Float is designed for next-generation 15MW offshore wind turbines. It incorporates a passive ballast system and optimised mooring lines to support stable performance in harsh offshore conditions, while minimising operational risks. The concept features an execution-oriented design optimised for the developmen...

Staci Satterwhite, CEO of ABS Wavesight, the ABS-affiliated software-as-a-service (SaaS) company, has challenged the industry to embrace software as a competitive advantage at a time of growing pressure on performance. Speaking to delegates at the 15th Annual Capital Link Operational Excellence in Shipping Forum in Athens, Greece, Satterwhite laid out the growing roster of operational risks facing shipping and invited them to consider the importance of software in creating solutions. Regulator...