Benefits of Classification for New Construction of Floating Offshore Structures in the Gulf of Mexico
Authors: Grove Todd W. , Montaruli Bret C. 
Published: October 2008

For major new construction projects that are becoming so prevalent for Gulf of Mexico deep water applications, close coordination and particularly communications between a typically large number of diverse participants is essential to successful completion within often aggressive time schedules. The services offered by a Classification Society experienced in the Gulf of Mexico can provide a number of benefits significantly facilitating this process for platform owners, designers, fabrication yards, equipment providers, and regulatory agencies. In addition to an overall summary of the primary benefits of Classification for these structures, this paper provides a description of the interface between a classification society and the entities involved in these new projects. Particular emphasis will be placed on present and developing state-of-the-art structures, such as TLP's and Spars - drawing upon actual practical GOM experience. The services described include reviews of structural and mechanical components, i.e., hull, deck, process facilities, risers, moorings, etc., needed for safe operation of these advanced structures. Additionally, how class can facilitate regulatory reviews through U.S. Coast Guard and Minerals Management Service is included.

Introduction

In the execution of complex floating production system development projects, the involvement of third party certifying bodies and regulatory agencies is at times viewed as a necessary evil. However, the participation of an appropriately experienced and qualified Classification Society as a proactive team member in these projects can serve as a positive benefit to a project team in facilitating compliance with regulatory regimes as well as adherence to Classification requirements that reflect the necessary flexibility to fit the demands of very unique and dynamic offshore projects. Why this is beneficial and what can be gained as a result of the involvement of Class is described in the following.

Benefits of Classification

Classification, offered by the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS), as a Class Society long experienced in the Gulf of Mexico, provides a sound, value-added service to clients for Floating Production Systems in this area. In addition toClassification, the Bureau acts as liaison with USCG and the MMS, which facilitates the reviews and surveys conducted to fulfill the regulatory requirements of these agencies. Classification provides benefits to a project that result in a safer facility and at the same time reduce the workload of the client's project staff. In general these benefits fall into the key categories of:safety,continuity,international support,independent third party review, andfamiliarity with marine applications These are addressed in more detail in the following sections.

Safety

All Bureau review activities are relative to safety issues. Where designers and fabricators have a number of drivers such as functionality, costs, etc. ABS has a single driver, SAFETY. This focus on safety can most clearly be seen in its Mission:

"The mission of the American Bureau of Shipping is to serve the public interest as well as the needs of our clients by promoting the security of life, property and the natural environment primarily through the development and verification of standards for the design, construction and operational maintenance of marine related facilities. "