ABS Rules for Building and Classing (2).pdf

RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING

STEEL VESSELS

PART 1

CONDITIONS OF CLASSIFICATION

American Bureau of Shipping Incorporated by Act of Legislature of the State of New York 1862

Copyright 2003 American Bureau of Shipping ABS Plaza 16855 Northchase Drive Houston, TX 77060 USA ii ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS . 2004

Rule Change Notice (2004)

The effective date of each technical change since 1993 is shown in parenthesis at the end of the subsection/paragraph titles within the text of each Part. Unless a particular date and month are shown, the years in parentheses refer to the following effective dates:

(2000) and after 1 January 2000 (and subsequent years) (1996) 9 May 1996 (1999) 12 May 1999 (1995) 15 May 1995 (1998) 13 May 1998 (1994) 9 May 1994 (1997) 19 May 1997 (1993) 11 May 1993

Listing by Effective Dates of Changes from the 2003 Rules

Notice No. 2 to the 2003 Rules (effective on 1 January 2003), which is incorporated in the 2004 Rules, is summarized below:

EFFECTIVE DATE 1 January 2003 (based on the contract date for construction between builder and Owner)

Part/Para. No. Title/Subject Status/Remarks 1-1-8/7 (New)

Attendance at Bureau Request To permit Bureau attendance for an unscheduled survey.

(Incorporates Notice No. 2)

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS . 2004 iii

P A R T

Conditions of Classification

CONTENTS

CHAPTER 1 Scope and Conditions of Classification

Section 1 Classification Section 2 Suspension and Cancellation of

Classification Section 3 Classification Symbols and Notations Section 4 Rules for Classification Section 5 Other Regulations Section 6 IACS Audit Section 7 Submission of Plans Section 8 Conditions for Surveys After Construction Section 9 Fees Section 10 Disagreement Section 11 Limitation of Liability Section 12 Hold Harmless Section 13 Time Bar to Legal Action Section 14 Arbitration

Appendix 1 Load Line Marks Appendix 2 Classification Symbols and Notations Appendix 3 ABS Type Approval Program

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ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS . 2004 1

C H A P T E R 1 Scope and Conditions of

Classification

CONTENTS

SECTION 1 Classification

1 Process 3 Certificates and Reports 5 Representations as to Classification 7 Scope of Classification

SECTION 2 Suspension and Cancellation of Classification

1 General 3 Notice of Surveys 5 Special Notations 7 Suspension of Class 9 Lifting of Suspension 11 Cancellation of Class 13 Alternative Procedures for Certain Types of Vessels

SECTION 3 Classification Symbols and Notations

1 Unrestricted Service 3 Special Rules 5 Special Purpose Vessels 7 Geographical Limitations 9 Vessels Not Built Under Survey 11 Equipment Symbol 13 À AMS Notation 15 AMS Notation 17 Centralized or Automatic Control Systems 19 Dynamic Loading Approach 20 Spectral Fatigue Analysis 21 SafeHull Criteria 23 Ice Class 25 PORT Notation

2 ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS . 2004

SECTION 4 Rules for Classification 1 Application of Rules 3 Effective Date of Rule Change

3.1 Effective Date

3.3 Implementation of Rule Changes

5 Novel Features 7 Alternatives

7.1 General

7.3 National Regulations

7.5 Other Rules

7.7 ABS Type Approval Program

SECTION 5 Other Regulations

1 General 3 International Conventions or Codes 5 Governmental Regulations

SECTION 6 IACS Audit

SECTION 7 Submission of Plans

1 Hull Plans 3 Machinery Plans 5 Additional Plans

SECTION 8 Conditions for Surveys After Construction

1 Damage, Failure and Repair

1.1 Examination and Repair

1.3 Suspension of Classification

1.5 Representation

3 Notification and Availability for Survey 5 Notification of Port State Detention 7 Attendance at Port State Request 9 Attendance at Bureau Request 11 Safety Management System

SECTION 9 Fees

SECTION 10 Disagreement

1 Rules 3 Surveyors

SECTION 11 Limitation of Liability

SECTION 12 Hold Harmless

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS . 2004 3

SECTION 13 Time Bar to Legal Action

SECTION 14 Arbitration

APPENDIX 1 Load Line Marks

APPENDIX 2 Classification Symbols and Notations

APPENDIX 3 ABS Type Approval Program

1 General 3 Limitations 5 Process

5.1 Design Assessment (DA)

5.3 Manufacturing Assessment (MA)

5.5 Product Quality Assurance Certification (PQA)

5.7 Certificates

5.9 Suspension of Certification

FIGURE 1 Process of the Type Approval Program

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS . 2004 5

C H A P T E R 1 Scope and Conditions of

Classification

S E C T I O N 1 Classification 1 - 1 - 1

1 Process (1 Nov. 2004) 1-1-1/1

The Classification process consists of

a) the development of Rules, Guides, standards and other criteria for the design and construction of marine vessels and structures, for materials, equipment and machinery,

b) the review of design and survey during and after construction to verify compliance with such Rules, Guides, standards or other criteria,

c) the assignment and registration of class when such compliance has been verified, and

d) the issuance of a renewable Classification certificate with annual endorsements valid for five years.

The Rules and standards are developed by the International Association of Classification Societies and by Bureau staff, and passed upon by committees made up of naval architects, marine engineers, shipbuilders, engine builders, steel makers and by other technical, operating and scientific personnel associated with the worldwide maritime industry. Theoretical research and development, established engineering disciplines, as well as satisfactory service experience are utilized in their development and promulgation. The Bureau and its committees can act only upon such theoretical and practical considerations in developing Rules and standards.

Surveyors apply normally accepted examination and testing standards to those items specified for each survey by the Rules; construction procedures, safety procedures and construction supervision remain the responsibility of the shipyard, ship repairer, manufacturer, owner or other client.

For classification, vessels are to comply with both the hull and the machinery requirements of the Rules.

3 Certificates and Reports (1 Jan. ’96) 1-1-1/3

3.1 1-1-1/3.1

Plan review and surveys during and after construction are conducted by the Bureau to verify to itself and its committees that a vessel, structure, item of material, equipment or machinery is in compliance with the Rules, Guides, standards or other criteria of the Bureau and to the satisfaction of the attending Surveyor. All reports and certificates are issued solely for the use of the Bureau, its committees, its clients and other authorized entities.

Part 1 Conditions of Classification Chapter 1 Scope and Conditions of Classification Section 1 Classification 1-1-1

6 ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS . 2004

3.3 1-1-1/3.3

The Bureau will release information from reports and certificates to the Port State to assist in rectification of deficiencies during port state control intervention. Such information includes text of conditions of classification, survey due dates, and certificate expiration dates. The Owner will be advised of any request and /or release of information.

3.5 1-1-1/3.5

The Bureau will release certain information to the vessel’s hull underwriters and P&I clubs for underwriting purposes. Such information includes text of overdue conditions of classification, survey due dates, and certificate expiration dates. The Owners will be advised of any request and/or release of information.

In the case of overdue conditions of classification, the Owners will be given the opportunity to verify the accuracy of the information prior to release.

3.7 (2002) The Bureau may release vessel specific information related to the classification and statutory certification status. This information may be published on the Bureau web site or by other media and may include the vessel's classification, any operating restrictions noted in the Bureau’s Record, the names, dates and locations of all surveys performed by ABS, the expiration date of all class and statutory certificates issued by ABS, survey due dates, the text of conditions of classification (also known as outstanding recommendations), transfers, suspensions, withdrawals, cancellations and reinstatements of class, and other related information as may be required.

5 Representations as to Classification 1-1-1/5

Classification is a representation by the Bureau as to the structural and mechanical fitness for a particular use or service in accordance with its Rules and standards. The Rules of American Bureau of Shipping are not meant as a substitute for the independent judgement of professional designers, naval architects, marine engineers, owners, operators, masters and crew, nor as a substitute for the quality control procedures of shipbuilders, engine builders, steel makers, suppliers, manufacturers and sellers of marine vessels, materials, machinery or equipment. The Bureau, being a technical society, can only act through Surveyors or others who are believed by it to be skilled and competent.

The Bureau represents solely to the vessel Owner or other client of the Bureau that when assigning class it will use due diligence in the development of Rules, Guides and standards, and in using normally applied testing standards, procedures and techniques as called for by the Rules, Guides, standards or other criteria of the Bureau for the purpose of assigning and maintaining class. The Bureau further represents to the vessel Owner or other client of the Bureau that its certificates and reports evidence compliance only with one or more of the Rules, Guides, standards or other criteria of the Bureau in accordance with the terms of such certificate or report. Under no circumstances whatsoever are these representations to be deemed to relate to any third party.

The user of this document is responsible for ensuring compliance with all applicable laws, regulations and other governmental directives and orders related to a vessel, its machinery and equipment, or their operation. Nothing contained in any Rule, Guide, standard, certificate or report issued by the Bureau shall be deemed to relieve any other entity of its duty or responsibility to comply with all applicable laws, including those related to the environment.

Section 1 Classification 1-1-1

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS . 2004 7

7 Scope of Classification (1 Nov. 2004) 1-1-1/7

Nothing contained in any certificate or report is to be deemed to relieve any designer, builder, Owner, manufacturer, seller, supplier, repairer, operator, insurer or other entity or person of any duty to inspect or any other duty or warranty express or implied. Any certificate or report evidences only that at the time of survey the vessel, structure, item of material, equipment or machinery or any other item covered by a certificate or report complied with one or more of the Rules, Guides, standards or other criteria of the American Bureau of Shipping and is issued solely for the use of the Bureau, its committees, its clients or other authorized entities. Nothing contained in any certificate, report, plan or document review or approval is to be deemed to be in any way a representation or statement beyond those contained in 1-1-1/5. The Bureau is not an insurer or guarantor of the integrity or safety of a vessel or of any of its equipment or machinery. The validity, applicability and interpretation of any certificate, report, plan or document review or approval are governed by the Rules and standards of the American Bureau of Shipping who shall remain the sole judge thereof. The Bureau is not responsible for the consequences arising from the use by other parties of the Rules, Guides, standards or other criteria of the American Bureau of Shipping, without review, plan approval and survey by the Bureau.

The term “approved” shall be interpreted to mean that the plans, reports or documents have been reviewed for compliance with one or more of the Rules, Guides, standards, or other criteria acceptable to the Bureau.

The Rules are published with the understanding that responsibility for stability and trim, for reasonable handling and loading, as well as for avoidance of distributions of weight which are likely to set up abnormally severe stresses in vessels does not rest upon the Committee.

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS . 2004 9

C H A P T E R 1 Scope and Conditions of

Classification

S E C T I O N 2 Suspension and Cancellation of Classification (1998) 1 - 1 - 2

1 General (1 Nov. 2004) 1-1-2/1

The continuance of the Classification of any vessel is conditional upon the Rule requirements for periodical, damage and other surveys being duly carried out. The Committee reserves the right to reconsider, withhold, suspend, or cancel the class of any vessel or any part of the machinery for noncompliance with the Rules, for defects or damages which are not reported to ABS, for defects reported by the Surveyors which have not been rectified in accordance with their recommendations, or for nonpayment of fees which are due on account of Classification, Statutory or Cargo Gear Surveys.

Suspension or cancellation of class may take effect immediately or after a specified period of time.

1.1 (2004) ABS reserves the right to perform unscheduled surveys of the hull, equipment or machinery when ABS has reasonable cause to believe that the Rule requirements for periodical, damage and other surveys are not being complied with.

1.2 (2004) Failure to permit the unscheduled surveys referred to in 1-1-2/1.1 above shall result in the suspension or cancellation of class.

3 Notice of Surveys 1-1-2/3

It is the responsibility of the Owner to ensure that all surveys necessary for the maintenance of class are carried out at the proper time. The Bureau will notify an Owner of upcoming surveys and outstanding recommendations. This may be done by means of a letter, a quarterly vessel status or other communication. The non-receipt of such notice, however, does not absolve the Owner from his responsibility to comply with survey requirements for maintenance of class.

5 Special Notations 1-1-2/5

If the survey requirements related to maintenance of special notations are not carried out as required, the suspension or cancellation may be limited to those special notations only.

Section 2 Suspension and Cancellation of Classification 1-1-2

10 ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS . 2004

7 Suspension of Class 1-1-2/7

7.1 1-1-2/7.1

Class will be suspended and the Certificate of Classification will become invalid from the date of any use, operation, loading condition, or other application of any vessel for which it has not been approved and which affects or may affect classification or the structural integrity, quality or fitness for a particular use or service.

7.3 1-1-2/7.3

Class will be suspended and the Certificate of Classification will become invalid in any of the following circumstances:

i) if recommendations issued by the Surveyor are not carried out by their due dates and no extension has been granted,

ii) if Continuous Survey items which are due or overdue at the time of Annual Survey are not completed and no extension has been granted,

iii) if the other surveys required for maintenance of class, other than Annual, Intermediate or Special Surveys, are not carried out by the due date and no Rule allowed extension has been granted, or

iv) if any damage, failure or deterioration repair has not been completed as recommended.

7.5 (10 August 2004) 1-1-2/7.5

Classification may be suspended, in which case the Certificate of Classification will become invalid, upon failure to submit any damage, failure, deterioration or repairs for examination upon the first opportunity or, if proposed repairs, as referred to in 7-1-1/7, have not been submitted to the Bureau and agreed upon prior to commencement, as referred to in 7-1-1/7.

7.7 1-1-2/7.7

Class is automatically suspended and the Certificate of Classification is invalid in any of the following circumstances:

i) if the Annual Survey is not completed by the date which is three (3) months after the due date,

ii) if the Intermediate Survey is not completed by the date which is three (3) months after the due date of the third Annual Survey of the five (5) year periodic survey cycle, or

iii) if the Special Survey is not completed by the due date, unless the vessel is under attendance for completion prior to resuming trading. Under exceptional circumstances, consideration may be given for an extension of the Special Survey,

• provided the vessel is attended and the attending Surveyor so recommends; such an extension shall not exceed three (3) months, or

• if the vessel is at sea on the Special Survey due date, and there is documented agreement to an extension prior to the due date, positive arrangements have been made for a Surveyor to attend the vessel at the first port of call, and the Bureau is satisfied there is technical justification for an extension; such an extension shall be granted only until arrival at the first port of call after the due date.

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS . 2004 11

7.9 1-1-2/7.9

If due to circumstances reasonably beyond the Owner’s or the Bureau’s control (limited to such cases as damage to the vessel, unforeseen inability of the Bureau to attend the vessel due to the governmental restrictions on right of access or movement of personnel, unforeseeable delays in port or inability to discharge cargo due to unusually lengthy periods of severe weather, strikes, civil strife, acts of war, or other cases of force majeure) the ship is not in a port where the overdue surveys can be completed at the expiry of the periods allowed above, the Bureau may allow the vessel to sail, in class, directly to an agreed discharge port and, if necessary, hence, in ballast, to an agreed port at which the survey will be completed, provided:

i) the overdue surveys are carried out to the extent practicable at the first port of call; and

ii) the Bureau is satisfied that the vessel is fit to sail and that the Owner is acting in good faith.

If class has already been automatically suspended in such cases, it may be reinstated subject to the conditions presented in this paragraph.

9 Lifting of Suspension 1-1-1/9

9.1 1-1-2/9.1

Class will be reinstated after suspension for overdue surveys upon satisfactory completion of the overdue surveys. Such surveys will be credited as of the original due date.

9.3 1-1-2/9.3

Class will be reinstated after suspension for overdue recommendations upon satisfactory completion of the overdue recommendation.

9.5 1-1-2/9.5

Class will be reinstated after suspension for overdue continuous survey items upon satisfactory completion of the overdue items.

11 Cancellation of Class 1-1-2/11

11.1 1-1-2/11.1

If the circumstances leading to suspension of class are not corrected within the time specified, the vessel’s class will be canceled.

11.3 1-1-2/11.3

A vessel’s class is canceled immediately when a vessel proceeds to sea without having completed recommendations which were required to be dealt with before leaving port.

11.5 1-1-2/11.5

When class has been suspended for a period of three (3) months due to overdue Annual, Intermediate, Special or other surveys required for maintenance of class; overdue Continuous Survey items; or overdue outstanding recommendations, class will be canceled. A longer suspension period may be granted for vessels which are either laid up, awaiting disposition of a casualty or under attendance for reinstatement.

12 ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS . 2004

13 Alternative Procedures for Certain Types of Vessels 1-1-2/13

Alternatives to 1-1-2/7.7 procedures for automatic suspension of class and 1-1-2/11.5 procedures for cancellation of class, may be applied to military vessels; commercial vessels owned or chartered by governments which are utilized in support of military operations or service; or laid-up vessels.

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS . 2004 13

C H A P T E R 1 Scope and Conditions of

Classification

S E C T I O N 3 Classification Symbols and Notations 1 - 1 - 3

Note: A listing of Classification Symbols and Notations available to the Owners of vessels, offshore drilling and production units and other marine structures and systems may be viewed and downloaded from the ABS website “www.eagle.org/rules/downloads.html”.

1 Unrestricted Service 1-1-3/1

Vessels which have been built to the satisfaction of the Surveyors to the Bureau to the full requirements of the Rules, or to their equivalent, where approved by the Committee for unrestricted ocean service at the assigned freeboards, will be classed and distinguished in the Record by the symbols À A1 indicating compliance with the hull requirements of the Rules and for self-propelled vessels À AMS indicating compliance with the machinery requirements of the Rules.

3 Special Rules 1-1-3/3

Vessels which have been built to the satisfaction of the Surveyors to the Bureau to the requirements as contained in the Rules for special types of vessels and which are approved by the Committee for unrestricted ocean service at the assigned freeboards, will be classed and distinguished in the Record by the symbols À A1 followed by the appropriate notation, such as Oil Carrier, Ore Carrier, Bulk Carrier, Ore or Oil Carriers, Oil or Bulk/Ore (OBO) Carrier, Passenger Vessel, Vehicle Carrier, Container Carrier, Towing Vessel, Refrigerated Cargo Carrier.

5 Special Purpose Vessels 1-1-3/5

Vessels of special design, intended primarily for ferry service, for dredging, for fishing, etc., which have been built to the satisfaction of the Surveyors to the Bureau to arrangements and scantlings approved for the particular purpose, where approved by the Committee for unrestricted ocean service at the assigned freeboards, will be classed and distinguished in the Record by the symbols À A1 followed by a notation of the trade for which special modifications to the Rules have been approved.

Section 3 Classification Symbols and Notations 1-1-3

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7 Geographical Limitations 1-1-3/7

Vessels which have been built to the satisfaction of the Surveyors to the Bureau to special modified requirements for a limited service, where approved by the Committee for that particular service, will be classed and distinguished in the Record by the symbols and notations as described in 1-1-3/1, 1-1-3/3, and 1-1-3/5, but the symbols and notations will either be followed by or have included in them the appropriate service limitation.

9 Vessels Not Built Under Survey 1-1-3/9

Vessels which have not been built under survey to this Bureau, but which are submitted for classification, will be subjected to a special classification survey. Where found satisfactory and thereafter approved by the Committee, they will be classed and distinguished in the Record by the symbols and special notations as described in 1-1-3/1 to 1-1-3/7, but the mark À signifying survey during construction will be omitted.

11 Equipment Symbol 1-1-3/11

The symbol Á placed after the symbols of classification, thus: À A1 Á will signify that the equipment of anchors and chain cables of the vessel is in compliance with the requirements of the Rules, or with requirements corresponding to the service limitation noted in the vessel’s classification, which have been specially approved for the particular service.

13 À AMS Notation 1-1-3/13

Machinery and boilers which have been constructed and installed to the satisfaction of the Surveyors to the Bureau to the full requirements of the Rules, when found satisfactory after trial and approved by the Committee, will be classed and distinguished in the Record by the notation À AMS.

15 AMS Notation 1-1-3/15 Machinery and boilers which have not been constructed and installed under survey to this Bureau, but which are submitted for classification, will be subjected to a special classification survey. Where found satisfactory and thereafter approved by the Committee, they will be classed and distinguished in the Record by the notation AMS. The mark À signifying survey during construction will be omitted.

17 Centralized or Automatic Control Systems 1-1-3/17

Where, in addition to the individual unit controls, it is proposed to provide remote, centralized, or automatic control systems for propulsion units, essential auxiliaries, or for cargo handling, relevant data is to be submitted to permit the assessment of the effect of such systems on the safety of the ship.

All controls necessary for the safe operation of the vessel are to be proved to the Surveyor’s satisfaction. The automatic and remote-control systems are to be in accordance with the applicable requirements of Part 4, Chapter 9.

Section 3 Classification Symbols and Notations 1-1-3

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS . 2004 15

19 Dynamic Loading Approach 1-1-3/19

Vessels which have been built to plans reviewed in accordance with an acceptable procedure and criteria for calculating and evaluating the behavior of hull structures under dynamic loading conditions, in addition to full compliance with other requirements of the Rules, will be classed and distinguished in the Record by the notation SH-DLA placed after the appropriate hull classification notation. The application of the dynamic loading approach is optional.

20 Spectral Fatigue Analysis (2003) 1-1-3/21

Where a spectral fatigue analysis is performed satisfactorily in accordance with an acceptable procedure and criteria, and the vessel is built in accordance with plans approved on the basis of the results of such analysis, the vessel will be distinguished in the Record by the notation SFA (year).

The notation, SFA (year), denotes that the designated fatigue life value is equal to 20 years or greater. The (year) refers to the designated fatigue life equal to 20 years or more (in 5-year increments) as specified by the applicant.

21 SafeHull Criteria (1 July 2001) 1-1-3/21

Vessels designed and built to the requirements in Part 5, Chapter 1, for tankers and Part 5, Chapter 3, for bulk carriers, and Part 5, Chapter 5 for container carriers will be identified in the Record by the notation SH, SHCM.

23 Ice Class (1998) 1-1-3/23

Vessels to be distinguished in the Record by the notation Ice Class are to meet the requirements in Part 6, Chapter 1 applicable to the designated ice class.

25 PORT Notation (1999) 1-1-3/25

Where requested by the Owner, control and monitoring installations which are found to comply with the requirements in the Guide for Automatic and Remote Control and Monitoring Systems for Vessels in Port and which have been installed and tested under survey by the Surveyor will be assigned and distinguished in the Record with the class notation PORT.

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS . 2004 17

C H A P T E R 1 Scope and Conditions of

Classification

S E C T I O N 4 Rules for Classification

1 Application of Rules (1997) /1

These Rules are applicable to steel vessels of 90 m (295 ft) and over in length intended for unrestricted ocean service, except where specifically mentioned otherwise. For smaller vessels, refer to the Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels Under 90 Meters (295 Feet) in Length. These requirements are applicable to those features that are permanent in nature and can be verified by plan review, calculation, physical survey or other appropriate means. Any statement in the Rules regarding other features is to be considered as a guidance to the designer, builder, owner, et al.

3 Effective Date of Rule Change /7

3.1 Effective Date /7.1

Changes to the Rules are to become effective on the date specified by the Bureau. In general, the effective date is not less than six months from the date on which The Technical Committee approves them. However, the Bureau may bring into force individual changes before that date if necessary or appropriate. The effective date of changes to the Rules can be found in the Introduction to the ABS publication “Notices and General Information” that is published with the Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels.

3.3 Implementation of Rule Changes /7.3

In general, until the effective date, plan approval for designs will follow prior practice unless review under the latest Rules is specifically requested by the party signatory to the application for classification. If one or more vessels are to be constructed from plans previously approved, no retroactive application of the subsequent Rule changes will be required except as may be necessary or appropriate for all contemplated construction.

5 Novel Features /5 Vessels which contain novel features of design in respect of the hull, machinery, or equipment to which the provisions of the Rules are not directly applicable may be classed, when approved by the Committee, on the basis that the Rules, insofar as applicable, have been complied with and that special consideration has been given to the novel features based on the best information available at the time.

Section 4 Rules for Classification 1-1-4

18 ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS . 2004

7 Alternatives /3

7.1 General /3.1

The Committee is at all times ready to consider alternative arrangements and scantlings which can be shown, through either satisfactory service experience or a systematic analysis based on sound engineering principles, to meet the overall safety and strength standards of the Rules.

7.3 National Regulations /3.3

The Committee will consider special arrangements or details of hull, equipment or machinery which can be shown to comply with standards recognized in the country in which the vessel is registered or built, provided they are not less effective.

7.5 Other Rules /3.5

The Committee will consider hull, equipment or machinery built to the satisfaction of the Surveyors of the Bureau in accordance with the plans that have been approved to the Rules of another recognized classification society with verification of compliance by the Bureau. A special comment will be entered in the Record indicating that classification has incorporated the provisions of this paragraph. In addition, for a tanker [L ≥ 150 m (492 ft)], bulk carrier [L ≥ 150 m (492 ft)] or container carrier [L ≥ 130 m (427 ft)], the class notation, SHR, will be entered in the Record. The notation, SHR, denotes that the vessel’s scantlings are reviewed based on the requirements in Part 5, Chapter 1, Section 4 for tankers, Part 5, Chapter 3, Section 4 for bulk carriers or Part 5, Chapter 5, Section 4 for container carriers.

7.7 ABS Type Approval Program (2003) /3.7

7.7.1 Type Approval

Products that can be consistently manufactured to the same design and specification may be Type Approved under the ABS Type Approval Program. The ABS Type Approval Program is a voluntary option for the demonstration of compliance of a product with the Rules or other recognized standards. It may be applied at the request of the designer or manufacturer. The ABS Type Approval Program generally covers Product Type Approval (1-1-4/7.7.3), but is also applicable for a more expeditious procedure towards Unit-Certification, as specified in 1-1-4/7.7.2.

7.7.2 Unit-Certification

Unit-Certification is a review of individual materials, components, products and systems for compliance with ABS Rules, Guides or other recognized standards. This allows these items to be placed on a vessel, marine structure or system to become eligible for classification.

Certification is a “one-time” review. The process is:

i) A technical evaluation of drawings or prototype tests of a material, component, product or system for compliance with the ABS Rules, Guides or other recognized standards,

ii) A survey during manufacture for compliance with the ABS Rules, Guides or other recognized standards and results of the technical evaluation,

iii) Alternatively, a certificate of type approval (see below) will expedite the requirements of i) and ii) above,

iv) Products found in compliance are issued “Individual Unit Certification”,

v) There is no requirement for subsequent reviews or surveys.

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS . 2004 19

7.7.3 Product Type Approval

Product Type Approval is a voluntary program used to prove eligibility for certification by demonstrating a product manufacturer’s conformance to a specific standard or specification.

Manufacturers who can demonstrate the ability to produce consistent products in compliance with these standards are issued “Certificates of Type Approval” (see 1-1-A3/5.3.4). The Certificate of Type Approval is neither an alternative to nor an equivalent of an Individual Unit Certificate. In order to remain valid, the Certificate of Type Approval requires routine audits of the manufacturer and continued compliance of the product with existing or new specifications.

7.7.4 Approval on Behalf of Administrations

ABS has also been authorized and/or notified to type approve certain equipment on behalf of Administrations. The list of authorizations and notifications are maintained at each ABS Technical Office.

7.7.5 Applicable uses of Type Approved Products

i) When a product is at a stage suitable for testing and/or for use in a classed vessel, and unit certification is required, the manufacturer is to present the product to an attending Surveyor for witnessing of all required Rule testing. Unless specified in the Design Assessment, technical evaluation would not normally be required.

ii) When a product is at a stage suitable for use in a classed vessel, and unit certification is not required, the product may be installed, to the satisfaction of the attending Surveyor, without the need for technical evaluation.

7.7.6 Definitions

Audit. A systematic and independent examination to determine whether quality activities and related results comply with planned arrangements and whether these arrangements are implemented effectively and is suitable to achieve the stated objectives.

General Audit. An audit that addresses the general operation of a site, and addresses applicable sections of the Quality and Environmental System Manual, quality and environmental system procedures, and operating procedures and process instructions.

Surveillance Audit. An audit that addresses specific areas within the operation at a site, and addresses selected sections of the Quality and Environmental System Manual, quality and environmental system procedures, and operating procedures and process instructions.

Audit Checklist. A listing of specific items within a given area that are to be audited.

Audit Report/Checklist. A combination of audit report and associated checklist.

Component. Parts/members of a product or system formed from material.

Finding. A statement of fact supported by objective evidence about a process whose performance characteristics meet the definition of non-conformance or observation.

Manufacturing Process. The process is the steps that one takes to produce (manufacture) a product.

Manufacturing System. The system is bigger than the manufacturing process, since it considers all of the factors that affect the process. This includes control of the process inputs, process controlling factors (such as competency of personnel, procedures, facilities and equipment, training, etc.) process outputs and measurements of quality, process and product for continual improvement, etc.

Material. Goods used that will require further forming or manufacturing before becoming a new component or product.

Non-conformance. Non-fulfillment of a specified requirement.

20 ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS . 2004

Observation. A detected weakness that, if not corrected, may result in the degradation of product or service quality or potential negative impact on the environment.

Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM). The OEM is the person or legal entity that has the legal or patent rights to produce the material, component, product or system.

Product. Result of the manufacturing process.

Production Testing. This is the destructive and nondestructive testing of the materials and components used in the manufacture of a product and its final testing that is recorded in Unit Certification. The waiving of witnessed testing during production testing may only be allowed as defined in 1-1-A3/3 “Limitations” and 1-1-A3/5.5 “Product Quality Assessment Certification”.

Prototype Testing. This is the destructive and nondestructive testing of the materials and components presented for evaluation of the original design of a product. If a Surveyor’s witness is required, this may not be waived under any section of the Rules, unless it is done by a recognized third party.

Recognized Third Party. Is a member of the International Association of Classification Societies, a Flag Administration, a Nationally Certified testing Laboratories and others who may be presented to the Bureau for special consideration.

Type Testing. This is the destructive and nondestructive testing of the materials and components of the first article of a product manufactured. If a Surveyor’s witness is required, this may not be waived under any section of the Rules.

7.7.7 The Terms and Conditions for use of ABS Type Approved Product Logo When a product is eligible for a Certificate of Type Approval (1-1-A3/5.3.4), the Type Approved Product Logo may also be used with the understanding that it is copyrighted and its use must be controlled as follows:

i) Any advertisement or other use of the logo is to be presented to the Manager of ABS Programs for review prior to use

ii) The logo may only be used on correspondence, advertising and promotional material and must not be used except in connection with those goods or services described in the scope and conditions of the Product Design Assessment Certificate.

iii) The logo may be used only on those materials (i.e., Internet site, letterhead, marketing literature, advertising, invoice stock forms, packaging, etc.) relating to the particular facility and process/product lines included within the Product Type Approval Certificate.

iv) The logo may not, under any circumstances, be used directly on or closely associated with products in such a way as to imply that the products themselves are “Unit – certified” by ABS.

v) If used with other logos, ABS may ask that the manufacturer discontinue any use of other logos that are unacceptable to ABS and any form of statement that, in the opinion of ABS, might be misleading.

vi) Upon the termination of certification, for whatever reason, the manufacturer must undertake to immediately discontinue all use of the logo and to destroy all stocks of material on which they appear.

vii) When advertising the product as ABS Type Approved, the manufacturer’s name, if different from the parent company, is to be used in conjunction with this logo. Any use should be specific to the process/product line covered and not represented as a blanket approval of the company.

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS . 2004 21

viii) The logo may be scaled uniformly to any size necessary. The color of the logo shall be either black or blue (reflex blue or PMS 294 blue).

ix) A camera-ready sheet of these logos is available in .pdf format by e-mail from type_approval@eagle.org.

See the ABS Type Approved Product Logo, as follows:

See the ABS Type Approval Program in Appendix 1-1-A3.

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS . 2004 23

C H A P T E R 1 Scope and Conditions of

Classification

S E C T I O N 5 Other Regulations 1 - 1 - 5

1 General 1-1-5/1

While the Rules cover the requirements for the classification of new vessels, the attention of Owners, designers, and builders is directed to the regulations of international, governmental, canal, and other authorities dealing with those requirements in addition to or over and above the classification requirements.

3 International Conventions or Codes 1-1-5/3

Where authorized by the Administration of a country signatory thereto and upon request of the Owners of a classed vessel or one intended to be classed, the Bureau will survey a new or existing vessel for compliance with the provisions of International Conventions and Codes including the following, and certify thereto in the manner prescribed in the Convention or Code.

International Convention on Load Lines, 1966.

International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974, as amended.

International Convention on Tonnage Measurement of Ships, 1969.

International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships, 1973/78, as amended.

International Code for the Construction and Equipment of Ships Carrying Liquefied Gases in Bulk.

International Code for the Construction and Equipment of Ships Carrying Dangerous Chemicals in Bulk.

5 Governmental Regulations (1 Nov. 2004) 1-1-5/5

Where authorized by a government agency and upon request of the Owners of a classed vessel or one intended to be classed, the Bureau will survey and certify a new or existing vessel for compliance with particular regulations of that government on their behalf.

All work performed on behalf of governments shall be governed by the terms and conditions of these Rules unless the government specifies otherwise.

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS . 2004 25

C H A P T E R 1 Scope and Conditions of

Classification

S E C T I O N 6 IACS Audit (1995) 1 - 1 - 6

The International Association of Classification Societies (IACS) conducts audits of processes followed by all its member societies to assess the degree of compliance with the IACS Quality System Certification Scheme requirements. For this purpose, auditors from IACS may accompany ABS personnel at any stage of the classification or statutory work which may necessitate the auditors having access to the vessel or access to the premises of the manufacturer or shipbuilder.

In such instances, prior authorization for the auditor’s access will be sought by the local ABS office.

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS . 2004 27

C H A P T E R 1 Scope and Conditions of

Classification

S E C T I O N 7 Submission of Plans 1 - 1 - 7

1 Hull Plans 1-1-7/1 Plans showing the scantlings, arrangements, and details of the principal parts of the hull structure of each vessel to be built under survey are to be submitted and approved before the work of construction is commenced. These plans are to indicate clearly the scantlings and details of welding, and they are to include such particulars as the design draft and design speed. Where provision is to be made for any special type of cargo or for any exceptional conditions of loading, whether in ballast or with cargo, particulars of the weights to be carried and of their distribution are also to be given. In general, the following plans are to be submitted for review or reference. See also 3-1-2/1.1.4.

Vessel Specifications Bow framing General Arrangement Stem Midship section Stern framing Scantling profile and decks Stern frame and rudder Bottom construction, floors, girders, etc. Shaft struts Framing plan Spectacle frames and bossing details Inner bottom plating Docking plan Shell expansion Hatches and hatch-closing arrangements Deck plans Ventilation system on weather decks Pillars and girders Capacity plan Watertight and deep-tank bulkheads Lines and body plan Miscellaneous nontight bulkheads which are used as structural supports

Superstructures and deckhouses, and their closing arrangements

Shaft tunnels Anchor handling arrangements Machinery casings, boiler, engine and main auxiliary foundations

Plans should generally be submitted in triplicate, one copy to be returned to those making the submission, one copy for the use of the Surveyor where the vessel is being built, and one copy to be retained in the ABS Technical office for record. Additional copies may be required where the required attendance of the Surveyor is anticipated at more than one location.

Section 7 Submission of Plans 1-1-7

28 ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS . 2004

3 Machinery Plans 1-1-7/3 Plans showing the boiler, main propulsion engine, reduction gear, shafting and thrust bearing foundations (see 3-2-12/1), including holding-down bolts; also machinery general arrangement, installation and equipment plans as referenced in Parts 4 and 5 of the Rules, are to be submitted and approved before proceeding with the work.

5 Additional Plans 1-1-7/5 Where certification under 1-1-5/3 or 1-1-5/5 is requested, submission of additional plans and calculations may be required.

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS . 2004 29

C H A P T E R 1 Scope and Conditions of

Classification

S E C T I O N 8 Conditions for Surveys After Construction

1 Damage, Failure and Repair (1 Jan. ’96) 1-1-8/1

1.1 Examination and Repair (10 August 2004) 1-1-8/1.1

1.1.1 Damage, failure, deterioration or repair to hull, machinery or equipment, which affects or may affect classification, is to be submitted by the Owners or their representatives for examination by a Surveyor at first opportunity. All repairs found necessary by the Surveyor are to be carried out to the Surveyor’s satisfaction.

1.1.2

Where repairs to hull, machinery or equipment, which affect or may affect classification, are planned in advance to be carried out, a complete repair procedure including the extent of the proposed repair and the need for the Surveyor’s attendance is to be submitted to and agreed upon by the Bureau reasonably in advance.

Note: The above applies also to repairs during voyage.

The above is not intended to include maintenance and overhaul to hull, machinery and equipment in accordance with the recommended manufacturer’s procedures and established marine practice and which does not require Bureau approval; however, any repair as a result of such maintenance and overhauls which affects or may affect classification is to be noted in the ship’s log and submitted to the Surveyor, as required by 1-1-8/1.1.1.

1.3 Suspension of Classification (10 August 2004)

Failure to submit a damage, failure, deterioration or repair governed by 1-1-8/1.1.1 to a Surveyor for examination at first opportunity, or failure to notify the Bureau in advance of the repairs contemplated by 1-1-8/1.1.2, may result in suspension of the vessel’s classification from the date of arrival at the first port of call after the initial damage, failure, deterioration or repair until such time as the damage, failure or deterioration is repaired to the Surveyor’s satisfaction, or the repair is redone or evidence submitted to satisfy the Surveyor that the repair was properly carried out.

Section 8 Conditions of Surveys After Construction 1-1-8

30 ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS . 2004

1.5 Representation 1-1-8/1.5

Nothing contained in this section or in a rule or regulation of any government or other administration, or the issuance of any report or certificate pursuant to this section or such a rule or regulation is to be deemed to enlarge upon the representations expressed in 1-1-1/1 through 1-1-1/7 hereof and the issuance and use of any such reports or certificates are to be governed in all respects by 1-1-1/1 through 1-1-1/7 hereof.

3 Notification and Availability for Survey (1 Nov. 2004) 1-1-8/3

The Surveyors are to have access to classed vessels at all reasonable times. For the purpose of Surveyor Monitoring, monitoring Surveyors shall also have access to classed vessels at all reasonable times. Such access may include attendance at the same time as the assigned Surveyor or during a subsequent visit without the assigned Surveyor. Auditors from the International Association of Classification Societies (IACS) or flag administration shall also be granted access when requested by ABS and accompanied by ABS personnel. The Owners or their representatives are to notify the Surveyors on all occasions when a vessel can be examined in dry dock or on a slipway.

The Surveyors are to undertake, with adequate notification, all surveys on classed vessels upon request of the Owners or their representatives and are to report thereon to the Committee. Should the Surveyors find occasion during any survey, to recommend repairs or further examination, notification is to be given immediately to the Owners or their representatives in order that appropriate action may be taken. The Surveyors are to avail themselves of every convenient opportunity for carrying out periodical surveys in conjunction with surveys of damages and repairs in order to avoid duplication of work.

The Owners or their representatives are responsible for establishing and maintaining safe working conditions in accordance with applicable safety standards and for providing Surveyors with safe access to sites and assistance during construction, repairs, testing and trials. Surveyors shall comply with Owner’s safety procedures to the extent such procedures are communicated to them. If Surveyors feel the proposed working conditions are unsafe they may refuse to attend the work site.

5 Notification of Port State Detention (10 August 2004)

The Owners or their representatives are to notify ABS on all occasions when a vessel is being detained by a Port State Authority, or the Flag Administration has found deficiencies which affects the vessel’s class or other Statutory Certificates issued by ABS. This notification shall be provided prior to the vessel’s departure in order that a Surveyor may attend and carry out a survey for the purpose of assessing and insuring the correction, if necessary, of the reported deficiencies or other matters which affect or may affect classification or the validity of Statutory Certificates issued by ABS. If Surveyors are not able to attend for any reason, ABS will notify the Owner to arrange for attendance in the next port of call. Should an Owner not notify ABS of a detention, then ABS reserves the right to suspend or cancel classification of the vessel or invalidate the applicable Statutory Certificate.

7 Attendance at Port State Request (1 Jan. ’96) 1-1-8/5

It is recognized that Port State authorities may legally have access to a vessel. In cooperation with Port States, ABS Surveyors will attend onboard a classed vessel…