DNV and GL extend cooperation

DNV and GL plan to increase the number of survey stations they operate jointly more than four-fold. The class societies will establish a further 22 jointly-operated service stations on top of the six that already exist. Surveyors at these stations will be exclusive to DNV and GL. The decision is based on the needs of shipowners to use a class society with a global presence of exclusive surveyors. Both societies admit concern at the cost implications of a global network of exclusive surveyors. They say that cooperation will improve cost efficiency and reduce the travel costs payable by the shipowner. The International Association of Classification Societies and the European Union have dictated that class societies use their own exclusive surveyors on all surveys carried out on behalf of flag state administrations. Talks on a full-scale alliance between DNV and GL failed last year. However, the respective societies hold this cooperation up as an example of their willingness to work together where there are mutual benefits to gain.