Who issues the SOLAS cargo ship safety construction certificate on behalf of the Coast Guard?

The SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) cargo ship safety construction certificate is issued on behalf of the Coast Guard by the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS). The ABS is a classification society that establishes and verifies standards for the design, construction, and maintenance of marine-related facilities and vessels. They operate under the authority granted to them by various maritime authorities, including the Coast Guard, to ensure that vessels meet the safety standards set forth by SOLAS.

The SOLAS convention outlines fundamental safety measures for ships, and obtaining this certificate is a crucial step for vessels to demonstrate compliance with those safety regulations. The involvement of a recognized authority like the ABS ensures that the vessel has undergone a thorough inspection to verify its construction and safety features, thereby enhancing maritime safety.

In contrast, other entities such as the International Maritime Organization (IMO) focus on creating regulations and guidelines but do not issue certificates. The Global Shipping Authority and Navy Compliance Office do not have the designated responsibility for issuing SOLAS certificates, which adds to the clarity of the role the American Bureau of Shipping plays in this context.