Stiftelsen Det Norske Veritas (DNV) is a classification society organized as a foundation, with the objective of Safeguarding life, property, and the environment. The organization's history goes back to 1864, when thefoundation was established in Norway to inspect and evaluate the technical condition of Norwegian merchant vessels. DNV describes itself as a provider of services for managing risk. Together with Lloyd's Register and American Bureau of Shipping, DNV is one of the three major companies in the classification society business. And now are an important member of IACS. DNV has its headquarters in Høvik, Bærum, just outside Oslo, Norway. It has 300 offices in 100 countries, and over 10,000 employees. Important industries where the company operates include ship transport, energy (including wind and solar), aviation, automotive, finance, food, health care and information technology. It also conducts research in several fields where it operates.
DNV classifies tests in four levels base on the product applied location in ships - A, B, C, and D.

For worse harsh environment use, the much strict standard testing is required. (See Table of Location Classes Selection Guide) Standards for Certification including contain principles, acceptance criteria and practical information related to the Society's consideration of objects, personnel, organizations, services and operations. A list of Standards for Certification is found in the latest edition of Pt.0 Ch.1 of the ”Rules for Classification of Ships” and the ”Rules for Classification of High Speed, Light Craft and Naval Surface Craft”.

Table of Location Classes Selection Guide