More recently the PRS has initiated moves to adhere to a uniform and common global Classification Society standard as exemplified by the International Association of Classification Societies (IACS) “Unified Requirements“ (UR) and “Common Structural Rules” (CSR).
“Unified Requirements” are adopted IACS resolutions on matters directly connected or covered by specific rule requirements and practices by member-classification societies and the general philosophy on which the rules and practices of member societies are established. Subject to ratification by the governing body of each member society, the “Unified Requirements” shall be incorporated in the rules and practices of the member societies.
“Common Structural Rules”, as initially applied to double hull oil tankers and bulk carriers, are requirements to reduce the risk of structural failure in order to help improve the safety of life environment and property and provide adequate durability to the hull structure for the design life. The latest versions of the rules is effective as of July 1, 2012.
Just like the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) international safety conventions whose purpose is to adopt a global international standard, IACS is also promoting the unification of class rules and standards of its member societies for safe shipping and protection of the marine environment.
The IACS is also encouraging other non-member societies to do the same and in this light the PRS is adopting the “Unified Requirements” and “Common Structural Rules”.
Shown in photo is PRS President P. V. Vergel de Dios Jr. receiving the IACS “Unified Rules Requirements” from Technical Committee Vice Chairman I.A. Abdon. with members E. S. Sarmiento and A. M. Villoria, Jr. At left is C.E. Corleto Chairman Technical Committee.
Earlier the Committee met several times to verify, review and study the IACS ‘Unified Rules Requirements’ which finally recommended its adoption.
In a meeting of the Technical Committee held on January 16, 2013 the IACS “Rules Requirements” was formally adopted as suppletory to the present PRS Rules and is effective as of April 2013.
