Common Structural Rules Software LLC, a joint venture company formed by ABS and Lloyd’s Register (LR), has released an upgraded version of its software packages that aim to simplify compliance with current and pending IACS Common Structural Rules (CSR).

ABS has been awarded a research contract by the Maritime Security Center (MSC) – a US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Center of Excellence, led by the Stevens Institute of Technology – for a two-year research programme focused on defining the future of cybersecurity for the maritime industry.

ABS has introduced new volume releases and revisions for its CyberSafety series of cybersecurity certification and optional notations for marine and offshore assets and facilities.

ABS has launched its new Guide for Certification of Container Securing Systems, along with a companion software package to aid in implementation.

ABS has completed a project with a group of leading Greek shipowners to support preparations for implementing the European Union’s Monitoring, Reporting and Verification (MRV) regulation for CO2 emissions.

A joint venture company has been formed by ABS and Lloyds Register (LR) to launch their latest software tools for the IACS Common Structural Rules (CSR), which entered into force on 1 July 2015.

ABS reports that it has published Guidance Notes on the Application of Cybersecurity Principles to Marine and Offshore Operations, the first volume in the society’s new CyberSafety series, with best practices for maintaining digital defences in maritime and offshore operations.

ABS reports that it has signed a strategic cooperation agreement with Marine Design & Research Institute of China (MARIC) to expand their collaboration in ship design, focusing on operational efficiency and environmental performance.

Topaz Energy and Marine has agreed a deal with classification society ABS to become its fleet management software provider.