The International Marine Contractors Association (Stand number 1D64) is marking this year's SPE Offshore Europe by announcing the passing of a major membership milestone – over 800 member companies from 61 countries.

“We have actually reached 808 member companies around the globe, a net increase of over 60 during 2011; of over a hundred since this time last year; and 200 more than at the time of Offshore Europe 2009,” explains IMCA’s Chief Executive, Hugh Williams. “These constant increases in membership are highly gratifying and enormously important in increasing IMCA’s recognition around the world.

“The overall increase is around 9%, but diving contractor membership has increased by 12% and we have 14% more Corresponding (generally oil company clients) members – increasing membership in this category was a particular aim for 2011. It is good too to see above average increases in our Central & North America section and our newest section – South America.

“IMCA’s is a respected voice around the world promoting good practice, particularly in the areas of health, safety and environmental standards, quality and efficiency and technical standards – the vast majority of our guidance and other documents are available for downloading free of charge,” adds Hugh Williams. “In addition to two core divisions, Competence & Training and Safety, Environment & Legislation (SEL) IMCA has four technical divisions – Diving, Marine, Offshore Survey, and Remote Systems & ROVs. All are engaged in ensuring that safe and efficient marine operations - dependent on the right choice of design, equipment and procedures as well as using trained, experienced and competent personnel - are maintained. Additionally, there are five regional sections.”

This year’s SPE Offshore Europe sees a special IMCA meeting on 7 September, from 09.30 hrs at the AECC, where the IMCA Europe & Africa section will discuss its work programme including new contracting materials, decommissioning and the new Renewables Workgroup.

Tags: IMCA