There are many Class Societies operating throughout the world and they all have common standards. Discussion of their operation, interpretation and professionalism are not part of this book, neither are the economic and financial influences involved in choosing one society in preference to another.

References are provided at the end of the book to help the reader with any background information for further reading and research. Most of the information concerns the Class Societies' rules and regulations for the building and continued operation of merchant ships, yachts, offshore platforms and special service craft (including military vessels), but it also outlines their work in marine related industries.

Author: Peter Broad, ISBN 9781856093149, published April 2009.