The American Bureau of Shipping is a nonprofit ship classification organization founded in 1862 that sets and verifies standards for marine and offshore assets. Operating from more than 200 offices across 70 countries, it provides surveying, engineering, research and regulatory advisory services to the shipping and offshore industries.
The organisation develops standards for the design, construction and maintenance of ships and marine-related facilities, then verifies compliance through surveying and inspection. Its technical work spans maritime safety and security, marine environmental protection, and operational risk management. A workforce of surveyors, engineers, researchers and regulatory specialists delivers these services in collaboration with industry partners.
As a classification society, the American Bureau of Shipping plays a central role in ensuring that vessels and offshore installations meet recognised safety and performance standards. Its research activities feed into the development of technical solutions for emerging challenges in marine technology and operations.
