IMCA Membership Breaks Through 800 Mark

"We have actually reached 808 member companies around the globe; that represents 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."

The association was formed in 1995 when the International Association of Offshore Diving Contractors (AODC) and the DP Vessel Owners Association (DPVOA) merged to form IMCA with a membership of around 100. By 2002 there were 200 members; it took four years to reach 300 member companies in 2006, but since then the Association has seen dramatic growth with 400 members in 2007, 500 in 2008, 600 in 2009, 700 in 2010 and now over 800 member companies from 61 countries.