The American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) is one of the world's leading ship classification organizations. Founded in 1862, it develops and verifies standards for the design, construction and maintenance of marine-related facilities, with the stated aim of promoting safety of life, property and the marine environment. It operates as a nonprofit organisation.
Its work spans ship classification, marine and offshore engineering, standards development, regulatory compliance, safety and risk management, and marine environmental protection. Services include classification and verification of vessels and facilities, the development of technical standards and rules, and technical, operational and regulatory advisory work carried out alongside partners in the marine and offshore industries.
ABS employs surveyors, engineers, researchers and regulatory specialists, and maintains a global footprint of more than 200 offices across 70 countries. The organisation describes its culture in terms of a commitment to safety, excellence and innovation, and of working collaboratively with partners on technical, operational and regulatory challenges.
