Answer
1.Eligibility for Membership:
◦ Classification societies that meet the conditions of membership may apply for IACS membership.
◦ These societies must demonstrate compliance withlACS quality standards as laid down in IQMSR through periodic Audits conducted by Independent Accredited Certification Bodies (ACBs)1
QSCS is widely recognised as the ‘gold standard’ for classification societies.
Annual Audit as per ISO 9001, IACS QSCS by ACB to verify Society’s compliance with IQMSR [IACS Quality Management System Requirements].
ACB issues/ endorses member’s ISO 9001 certificate and provides SOC for complying with IQMSR.
ACB is an organization, wholly independent of IACS & its members, accredited to comply with ISO/IEC 17021 by an Accreditation bodywho is signatory to IAF (International Accreditation Forum) and MRA (Multinational Recognition Agreement).
IACS Operation centre (OC) oversees effective administration and operation of QSCS. Each year OC observes a selection of ACB Audits and provides refresher course to ACB Auditors.
IMO oversees the IACS QSCS by an observer who annually reports on evolution and development to MSC. Observer selects several Audits that he shall attend every year.