ABS Leads Industry Discussion on Impact of 2020 Sulfur Cap, Cybersecurity and Digitization

(HAMBURG) ABS, a leading provider of classification and technical services to the marine and offshore industries, held its annual German National Committee meeting this week. 

The gathering of ABS members and industry leaders discussed global issues facing the maritime industry as well as an evaluation of strategies to meet the IMO’s 2020 Sulfur Cap and a look ahead to 2030, when vessel data is likely to play a significant role in the compliance regime. 

“ABS has the second largest German fleet and long standing relationships with German ship owners. We are able to leverage this success at our German National Committee to provide an invaluable platform for engaging conversations with industry leaders on topics and issues shaping the shipping world,” said Christopher J. Wiernicki, ABS Chairman, President and CEO, who actively participated in the Committee program.

The committee meetings are a forum for ABS members, including owners, operators, charterers, and industry representatives from flag administrations, owner associations, the shipbuilding and insurance sectors, to come together with ABS leaders and discuss industry issues and developments.  They are an important part of an ongoing dialogue with industry to address technical, operational and regulatory challenges.

The committee also heard about the industry-leading safety milestone ABS accomplished in 2017, reaching one year without a work-related lost-time incident, which exemplified its global focus on safety and its mission. 

ABS also presented its innovative work with industry partners and academia on data and digital technologies designed to improve the delivery of classification services for clients. There was an update on ABS’ groundbreaking work in the cyber security arena and guest speaker John McCaslin, U.S. Embassy’s Minister-Counselor for Commercial Affairs, discussed U.S. Economic Policy’s Impact on International Trade.

“Our Committee offers penetrating insight on the challenges facing the industry and we value the opportunity to provide ABS with a far-reaching perspective,” said Tom Jacob, ABS German National Committee Chairman. “The dialogue we have across our Committee sharpens our focus on real industry issues and how ABS can best help to solve them.” 

About ABS
ABS, a leading global provider of classification and technical advisory services to the marine and offshore industries, is committed to setting standards for safety and excellence in design, construction and operation. Focused on safe and practical application of advanced technologies and digital solutions, ABS works with industry and clients to develop accurate and cost-effective compliance, optimized performance and operational efficiency for marine and offshore assets.