Once adopted, these interpretations are applied by each IACS member society, when certifying compliance with the statutory regulations on behalf of authorizing flag States.
IACS has consultative status with the IMO, and remains the only non-governmental organization with observer status which also develops and applies technical rules that are reflective of the aims embodied within IMO conventions.
In the wake of the EXXON Valdez oil spill, particular attention has been directed towards the development of new designs for tankers that would result in reduced pollution.
These designs have become mandatory for ships by virtue of their being incorporated as amendments to MARPOL 73/78 in 1992 as Regulation 13F.
The regulations apply to new oil tankers of 5000grt and above for which;
The building or major conversion contract is placed on or after 6th July 1993,
The keel is laid or construction work commenced after 6th January 1994,
Delivery is made or work completed on or after 6th July 1996.
