Introduction
Structural changes within the shipping industry have increased the need of external consultants who specialise in investigating damage to ship, equipment and cargo. Simultaneously there is an increasing need to develop damage prevention efforts in these areas.

History
After 1980, the number of independently working Marine Surveyors and Consultants expands. Their purpose is to serve many concerns within the shipping industry including cargo owners and insurance companies. An informal network of contacts grows among these professionals. Their goal is to exchange experience and information while advancing and improving their industry through the application of a common work ethic.

In 1995, The Swedish Independent Marine Surveyors´ Association (SIMSA) was formed. The network becomes established with the purpose of creating a professional trade association forum for Marine Surveyors and Consultants. Membership requirements include specific qualifications of education and experience. Members are obligated to adhere to strict ethical standards for services rendered.

In the fall of 1999, SIMSA was reorganized as a Scandinavian association open to Marine Surveyors and Consultants working in Denmark, Norway and Sweden and the association was renamed to The Scandinavian Independent Marine Surveyors´ Association (SIMSA). Their increased resources now provide an expanding market with Scandinavian expertise and greater adherence to association goals and purpose.

Membership in SIMSA
Membership in SIMSA means that the Consultant has a certified background in shipping industry concerns. This includes navigation, cargo handling, engineering, organisation and management.

Members have a formal education of either nautical or technical training, as well as experience serving onboard ship or working with the shipbuilding and/or transport industries. The SIMSA member may also have complimentary education and experience in specialized areas of the field.

The SIMSA members work as independent surveyors and consultants
as specified under each listed member.

Purpose of the Association

• Create means of communication between professional Marine Surveyors and Consultants

• Through the exchange of information and continuous education, maintain a high standard of expertise in current trade knowledge

• Maintain set ethical rules among members as they serve the shipping industry with skill and competence

• Publish and disseminate current membership lists as a service to the industry

• Establish individual SIMSA members as highly competent professional to whom the industry can turn with confidence when problemsolving and independent investigations are needed

• Recruit and educate new members of the trade

• Act as a repository of information for the industry regarding current issues and concerns