Type Approval Process
Procedure for Becoming Type Approved
Submittal Package Includes:
- Completed Application
Application (PDF format)
Application (HTML format ) - Three copies of applicable drawings, datasheets, test results, etc.
- Sufficient data to verify compliance with stated standards.
- Must be specific to the intended services stated on the application.
Standards for Approval:
- ABS Rules & Guides
- U.S. National and Foreign National
- U.S. Federal
- Foreign Federal (Administrative)
- International (IMO) Safety (SOLAS)
- Manufacturer's standards
Step 2: Evaluation and Assessment
Design Evaluation:
- ABS technical office reviews plans; where satisified, plans are approved and a PDA (certificate) is issued
Prototype Test:
- Tests witnessed by Surveyor as required; completed type tests often required as part of design assessment (PDA)
Management Assessment:
- Performed by local ABS Surveyor
- Standardized checklists for surveyor guidance
- Requirements not applicable for all clients
- Emphasis on quality control
- Based on ISO-9000 standard
Production Assessment:
- Performed by local ABS Surveyor
- Surveyor uses standardized check-sheets for guidance.
- Production surveillance will be conducted on an annual basis
Step 3: Type Approval Certification
- In some cases a Unit Certification test by Surveyor may be required for each production unit of equipment
Issuance of Certificate:
- ABS Port Office issues a 5 year Manufacturing Assessment Certificate to the Manufacturer
- Product is included in ABS List of Type Approved Equipment, and ABS Web site.
- Manufacturer may market product as ABS Type Approved Equipment
- Certification of Type Approval may then be printed from the web site.
Maintenance of ABS Type Approval:
- Annual Plant Surveillance
- Products may be added to listing with interim plant surveys
- New products or changes to existing products may necessitate additional design review.
ABS Quality Assurance Program: