A Classification Society's Approach and Procedures in Assuring Compliance of Floating Production Systems to Applicable Codes, Standards, and Regulatory Requirements
Authors: Jones D.E. , McIntyre S.R. 
Published: October 2008

Since the mid-1970's ABS has been involved in providing Classification and certifying regulatory compliance for both Flag and Coastal State requirements on Floating Production Systems (FPSS); both for converted and purpose built vessels. In light of this experience, this paper will describe how ABS has structured its' classification procedures and requirements for this diverse category of offshore systems through the utilization and harmonization of classification rules and industry codes and standards, and how classification relates to certification of compliance with Flag and Coastal State regulations for these systems.

INTRODUCTION

Historically, oil companies extended land-based civil, structural and oil and gas production technologies for offshore applications via fixed platform installations, while the marine transportation and dfilling industries utilized naval architecture and marine engineering practice. Prior to the early 1980's, these distinct, but complementary, industries evolved design and operational procedures to address their respective technical challenges for offshore developments. However, due to numerous factors, both technical and economic, the past decade has shown that combining these technologies in floating production systems provides a viable and attractive alternative to traditional fixed platform development scenarios for many offshore fields.

For the purposes of this paper, "FPSS" encompass any offshore system comprised of a floating structure and station-keeping system engaged in any combination of oil and gas production, processing, storage and/or offloading operations. An FPS may also involve drilling, workover, accommodation or diving systems. The floating structure may be a TLP, a spar buoy, a semi-submersible, tanker or barge. It may be a purpose built structure or an existing vessel converted to FPS service. Station-keeping may be accomplished by single point or spread mooring with or without propulsion or thruster assistance or by dynamic positioning. Site specific service life may range from a few months to several decades. The floating structure may or may not be a flagged vessel, but this paper primarily addresses FPSS involving classed and flagged vessels.

Indeed, all indications point to accelerated utilization, evolution and diversification of FPSS in the coming years.A representative summary of ABS experience with FPSS is shown in Table 1. This information is provided not only to give an appreciation of ABS' experience in providing classification and certification services for FPSS but to highlight the diversity of their application in all offshore areas presently under development or being considered for development in the near future.

ABS' classification procedures and requirements for this diverse category of offshore systems have also evolvedover the last decade based on experience gained and advances in technology and practice. And, even in situations where an Operator may elect not to obtain classification, ABS, or another classification society, is often involved in certifying the system for compliance toregulatory requirements of Coastal State Authorities and, if a flagged vessel is' involved, those of the Flag State Authority -- the scope and content of which vary greatly depending upon the regulatory jurisdictions involved.