ABB’s automation, propulsion and switchboard systems for vessels have successfully been verified to meet DNV’s class notation ‘Cyber secure SP0’, based on the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) guidelines for cyber risk management.

“Risk managers are now putting cybersecurity to the top of their list, in terms of shipping risks. The DNV Cyber secure class notation is in line with IMO regulations, and provides shipowners, shipyards and maritime insurers a class based formal structure for their cybersecurity initiatives,” said Jarle Blomhoff, group leader cyber safety and security, DNV. “We are very pleased to be working with ABB on this type approval, as it demonstrates their intention to show they can deliver systems with a strategic and independently verified approach to cyber risk reduction.”

With this verification, ABB’s systems meet DNV’s ‘Cyber Secure SP0’, in line with IMO Resolution MSC.428(98), which requires the safety management system to take into account cyber risk management in accordance with the International Safety Management (ISM) Code.

Alignment with IMO guidelines for cyber risk management validates the cybersecurity performance not only of ABB’s physical setup but also for the integrated products and system architecture. Additionally, it will simplify and speed up installation, commissioning and testing on board, reducing costs for the customer and supporting a vessel owner’s management of cyber risks in the operation of their vessel.

“Strong cybersecurity is fundamental to safe shipping. At ABB, we have continuously demonstrated our commitment to maritime cybersecurity through research at our state-of-the-art laboratory and by collaborating with classification societies, shipowners and yards,” said Ahmed Hassan, head of cybersecurity, ABB Marine & Ports. “Managing cybersecurity is a careful balance between risk, functionality and cost, and completing this key stage in the type approval demonstrates the advancements we have made in this area for our customers.”