A key to safe shipping
In the development of modern maritime industry, ship classification has emerged as an essential contributor to the safe-guarding of life, property and the environment.
Fundamentally classification is a very simple concept based on three main elements, applicable both to the newbuild and operational phases,
Setting standards (Classification Rules)
Verification of compliance with standards (approval of specifications and drawings, surveys and testing)
Documenting compliance with standards (survey reports, Classification certificates)
DNV's ship classification Rules are based on a wealth of experience accumulated during our more than 140 years of history and extensive research and development programmes. Our classification services are performed through our global network of stations and approval centra, by systematically trained and well qualified surveyors, approval engineers and experts, extensively supported by state-of-the-art IT technology.
Classification services
Our comprehensive classification service includes newbuilding, vessels in operation as well as materials, systems and components.
Newbuilding
New ship design and materials, as well as the classification concept, are setting standards at the forefront of technology and safety. These standards act as contractual references between the newbuilding yard and the owner.
Vessels in operation
DNV offers quick and efficient service through our Customer service managers who are acting as single points of contact, supported by our global network of offices in all major ports. All our offices are manned with technically competent managers and surveyors authorised to make decisions locally. Our Customer service managers are there to provide safe and proactive support to your vessels.
Certification of materials and components
All materials, components and systems relevant to safe operation, quality of ships and mobile offshore units.
DNV Exchange login
Provides an easy-to-use interface for DNV clients and other parties.
Access to your vessels' class information
Type approval - List of products
Hot topics
April 2012 – Rules and Standards – Offshore, Ships and High Speed Light Craft
New rule book for self-elevating units: The major news in the April release of DNV’s service documents is the new Offshore Service Specification; OSS-104 Rules for Classification of Self-Elevating units. This rule book follows a new format and provides a clear overview of all the relevant requirements and procedures applicable to a self-elevating unit built to DNV class.
