Guide for Mobile Offshore Units Operating on Norwegian Continental Shelf, N-Notation

GUIDE FOR

MOBILE OFFSHORE UNITS OPERATING ON

NORWEGIAN CONTINENTAL SHELF, N-NOTATION

APRIL 2007 (Updated February 2011 – see next page)

American Bureau of Shipping

Incorporated by Act of Legislature of
the State of New York 1862

Copyright © 2007
American Bureau of Shipping
ABS Plaza
16855 Northchase Drive
Houston, TX 77060 USA
Updates

February 2011 consolidation includes:

• March 2009 version plus Corrigenda/Editorials

March 2009 consolidation includes:

• April 2007 version plus Notice No. 1
Foreword

Foreword (1 March 2009)

This Guide provides a road map for our clients for documenting technical requirements related to
classification for compliance with verification obligations associated with operation of mobile offshore
units on the Norwegian Continental Shelf (NCS) and applying for an Acknowledgement of Compliance
(AoC) which is mandatory for operation on the Norwegian Continental Shelf (NCS).
ABS has been appointed as a Recognized Organization (RO) for Mobile Offshore Units by the
Norwegian Maritime Directorate (NMD) and thereby authorized to perform on it’s behalf technical
verification, inspection and surveys for the delegated items concerning Mobile Offshore Units which
are or will be registered in a Norwegian Ship Register.
Irrespective of flag, for the purpose of this Guide, Appendix 1 (as applicable) and the relevant parts of
the delegated items (see Appendix 2) will form part of the technical verification permitted by Chapter 1
Section 3 of the Framework Regulations to contribute towards the application for an AoC. It is to be
noted that the NMD references in this Guide do not imply full compliance with Norwegian Flag.
The Guide describes NCS-related services provided by ABS for the following types of mobile
offshore units and systems:
• Drilling Units
• Floating Production Storage and Offloading Units
• Accommodation Units (applicable parts of Chapter 3, Section 1)
• Drilling Systems, and
• Hydrocarbon Production and Process Facilities
The Guide contains the following three Chapters:
• Conditions of Classification
• Verification Methodology
• N-Notations
The effective date of this Guide is 1 March 2009.

ABS GUIDE FOR MOBILE OFFSHORE UNITS OPERATING ON NORWEGIAN CONTINENTAL SHELF, N-NOTATION . 2007 iii
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 Table of Contents

GUIDE FOR
MOBILE OFFSHORE UNITS OPERATING ON
NORWEGIAN CONTINENTAL SHELF, N-NOTATION

CONTENTS
CHAPTER 1 Conditions of Classification..................................................1
Section 1 Scope and Conditions of Classification ....................3

CHAPTER 2 Verification Methodology ......................................................9

Section 1 Basis and Procedures.............................................11

CHAPTER 3 N-Notations...........................................................................15
Section 1 Mobile Offshore Drilling Units .................................17
Section 2 Mobile Offshore Production Units ...........................25

APPENDIX 1 Additional Classification Requirements ............................33

APPENDIX 2 Extract – Applicable NMD Technical Delegated Items .....35

ABS GUIDE FOR MOBILE OFFSHORE UNITS OPERATING ON NORWEGIAN CONTINENTAL SHELF, N-NOTATION . 2007 v
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 Chapter 1: Conditions of Classification

CHAPTER 1 Conditions of Classification

CONTENTS
SECTION 1 Scope and Conditions of Classification .................................3
1 Classification..........................................................................3
3 Class Notation........................................................................3
3.1 ABS N-Notation................................................................. 3
3.3 Systems Not Built Under Survey ....................................... 4
5 Rules for Classification ..........................................................4
5.1 Applications....................................................................... 4
5.3 Scope................................................................................ 4
5.5 Effective Date of Change of Requirement......................... 4
7 Norwegian Regulations and Other Standards .......................5
9 Submission of Plans ..............................................................5
9.1 Hull Plans .......................................................................... 5
9.3 Machinery Plans................................................................ 5
9.5 System Plans .................................................................... 5
11 Abbreviations and Definitions ................................................6
11.1 Abbreviations .................................................................... 6
11.3 Definitions ......................................................................... 6

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 Section 1: Scope and Conditions of Classification

CHAPTER 1 Conditions of Classification

SECTION 1 Scope and Conditions of

Classification

1 Classification
The term classification, as used herein, indicates that a mobile offshore unit, operating on the Norwegian
Continental Shelf (NCS), has been designed, constructed, installed and surveyed in compliance with
this Guide, applicable existing ABS Rules and Guides or other acceptable standards.
General principles and procedures related to classification covered in this Guide are stated in the
applicable ABS Rules. The continuance of classification is dependent on the fulfillment of requirements
for surveys after construction.
According to the Norwegian Petroleum Act, the Owner is fully responsible for verification activities
to ensure that operation of units and systems are in compliance with the applicable regulatory
requirements. Therefore, the ultimate responsibility for shutting down operations beyond the limit
specified in unit and system design basis does not rest upon the ABS Classification Committee.

3 Class Notation

3.1 ABS N-Notation (1 March 2009)

Classification requirements given in this Guide are supplementary to the latest edition of ABS Rules.
In order to obtain the (N) symbol, a design verification to the applicable ABS Rules and/or Guides
and additional requirements outlined in this Guide is to be performed. Additionally, mobile offshore
units are to always comply with the latest edition of the PSA Regulations, the associated guidelines
and referenced standards.
The verification will only be related to safety aspects of the applicable standards, rules and regulations.
Generally, class requirements are to be applied to all systems for which the (N) symbol has been requested.
Unless the Owner requests additional compliance, production facilities will be subject to NORSOK
standards. However, in order to verify that safety is not impaired, ABS is to review the effect (area
classification, loading, etc.) of these systems on the unit. It is recommended that the production
system is classed to avoid any difficulties that the interfaces between plant and vessel may create.
Mobile offshore units for operation on the Norwegian Continental Shelf, that have been built to the
satisfaction of the Surveyors to the Bureau to the full requirements of this Guide, where approved by
the ABS Classification Committee for service for the specified design environmental conditions, will
be classed and distinguished in the ABS Record by the symbols À A1, followed by the appropriate
notation and the (N) symbol, for example, À A1 Column-Stabilized Drilling Unit (N). The N-
Notations for mobile offshore units and systems are referenced in subsequent Chapters of this Guide.

ABS GUIDE FOR MOBILE OFFSHORE UNITS OPERATING ON NORWEGIAN CONTINENTAL SHELF, N-NOTATION . 2007 3
Chapter 1 Conditions of Classification
Section 1 Scope and Conditions of Classification 1-1

3.3 Systems Not Built Under Survey

Mobile offshore units 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 this Guide, but the mark À signifying survey during
construction will be omitted.

5 Rules for Classification

5.1 Applications
This Guide is intended for use in conjunction with the ABS:
• Rules for Building and Classing Mobile Offshore Drilling Units (MODU Rules),
• Guide for Building and Classing Floating Production Installations (FPI Guide),
• Guide for Building and Classing Offshore Facilities (Facilities Guide),
• Guide for the Classification of Drilling Systems (CDS Guide),
• Guide for Certification of Lifting Appliances, or
• Other applicable ABS Rules and Guides.
The application of this Guide is, in general, based on the contract date for construction between the
builder and the prospective Owner.

5.3 Scope (1 March 2009)

This Guide covers the safety aspects of the mobile offshore unit operating on NCS, and provides
assistance to the Owner for AoC application for the following types of mobile offshore units:
• Accommodation Units (applicable parts of Chapter 3, Section 1)
• Drilling Units
• Production Storage/Offloading Units (FPSO and FPDSO) Units
and the following types of industrial systems/facilities:
• Drilling Systems
• Production Facilities
Note: The AoC scheme is mandatory for all types of mobile units except floating storage units.
Other types of installations designed as mobile offshore units which do not fall into the above categories
will be treated on an individual basis and be assigned an appropriate classification designation similar
to the above format. It is to be noted that the drilling systems and the production facilities are to go
through the process of verification for the N-Notation.

5.5 Effective Date of Change of Requirement

5.5.1 Effective Date

This Guide and subsequent changes to this Guide 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 Guide is published and released for its use. However, the Bureau may bring into
force the Guide or individual changes before that date, if necessary or appropriate.

4 ABS GUIDE FOR MOBILE OFFSHORE UNITS OPERATING ON NORWEGIAN CONTINENTAL SHELF, N-NOTATION . 2007
Chapter 1 Conditions of Classification
Section 1 Scope and Conditions of Classification 1-1

5.5.2 Implementation of Rule Changes

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.
The date of “contract for construction” of a mobile offshore unit is the date on which the
contract to build the unit is signed between the prospective Owner and the shipbuilder. The
date and the construction numbers (i.e., hull numbers) of all the units included in the contract
are required to be indicated on the form, “Application of Request for Classification”. If the
signed contract for construction is amended to change the unit type, the date of “contract for
construction” of this modified unit, or units, is the date on which the revised contract or a new
contract is signed between the Owner, or Owners, and the shipbuilder.

7 Norwegian Regulations and Other Standards

While this Guide covers the requirements for the classification of mobile offshore units operating on
NCS, the attention of Owners, designers and builders is directed to the requirements of the Norwegian
regulations and other standards that are over and above the classification requirements.

9 Submission of Plans
Subsequent Chapters in this Guide identify requirements for typical mobile offshore units and
industrial systems that will be part of the classification and verification process for respective N-
Notation.
Upon satisfactory completion of all of the required engineering and survey processes, ABS will issue
the Classification Certificate to the operating mobile offshore unit, including the N-Notation.

9.1 Hull Plans

Hull plans showing the scantlings, arrangements, and details of the principal parts of the hull structure
of each mobile offshore unit to be built under survey are to be submitted and approved before the
work of construction is commenced. These plans are to clearly indicate 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.

9.3 Machinery Plans

Machinery plans showing the boilers, main engines, reduction gears, etc., also machinery general
arrangement, installation and equipment plans as referenced in the applicable Rules, are to be
submitted and approved before proceeding with the work.

9.5 System Plans

In most cases, manufacturer’s component and system related drawings, calculations and documentation
would be required for submittal to substantiate the design of the systems and their equipment. In these
cases, upon satisfactory completion of ABS review of the manufacturer’s submittal, ABS Engineers
will issue a review letter. This letter, in conjunction with the submitted package, will be used and
referenced during surveys and subsequently issued reports by attending ABS Surveyors.

ABS GUIDE FOR MOBILE OFFSHORE UNITS OPERATING ON NORWEGIAN CONTINENTAL SHELF, N-NOTATION . 2007 5
Chapter 1 Conditions of Classification
Section 1 Scope and Conditions of Classification 1-1

11 Abbreviations and Definitions

11.1 Abbreviations (1 March 2009)

Abbreviations used in this Guide are as follows:
ABS American Bureau of Shipping
AoC Acknowledgement of Compliance
EEA European Economic Area
EU European Union
HES Health Environment and Safety
IACS International Association of Classification Societies
MOU Mobile Offshore Unit
MODU Mobile Offshore Drilling Unit
MOPU Mobile Offshore Production Unit
NBH Norwegian Board of Health
NCS Norwegian Continental Shelf
NMD Norwegian Maritime Directorate
NPD Norwegian Petroleum Directorate
NSA Norwegian Shipowners’ Association
OLF Norwegian Oil Industry Association
PSA Petroleum Safety Authority
SFT Norwegian Pollution Control Authority
SoC Statement of Compliance

11.3 Definitions (1 March 2009)

Definitions used in this Guide are as follows:
Acknowledgements of Compliance (AoC) – An Acknowledgement of Compliance is a decision made
by the Petroleum Safety Authority (PSA) that the technical condition of a Mobile Offshore Unit
(MOU) and the applicant’s organization and management systems are considered to be in compliance
with relevant requirements in Norwegian Shelf legislation.
Applicant – The Applicant is the responsible body for operation of a MOU who applies for an AoC.
CE Mark – CE denotes “Communautée Européenne” and confirms that equipment complies with
European Union Directives.
Client – The Client is the party having requested classification or having assumed ownership of a
classed offshore unit or installation. In cases where Owners have requested another party to operate
the unit or installation on their behalf, such party is regarded as the client.
Contract – The Contract is an agreement between ABS and the client where the extent of services
requested by the client is defined.
Mobile Offshore Unit (MOU) – A Mobile Offshore Unit (MOU) is a buoyant structure engaged in offshore
operations including drilling, production, storage or support functions, not intended for services on
one particular offshore site and which can be relocated without dismantling or modification.

6 ABS GUIDE FOR MOBILE OFFSHORE UNITS OPERATING ON NORWEGIAN CONTINENTAL SHELF, N-NOTATION . 2007
Chapter 1 Conditions of Classification
Section 1 Scope and Conditions of Classification 1-1

MOU Classification Society (NMD Construction Regulation) – An MOU Classification Society (NMD
Construction Regulation) is a recognized classification society with which there is an additional agreement
with the NMD on its carrying out inspection and surveys, etc., on mobile offshore units. Also referred
to as “Recognized Organization”.
Notified Body – A Notified Body is an independent organization appointed by European Economic
Area (EEA) national authorities to undertake conformity assessment before a product is CE marked
according to an European Union (EU) Directive.
Owner – For the purpose of this Guide, the Owner is the party responsible for the offshore unit,
including its operation and safety.
Recognized Classification Society [NMD Construction Regulation (Red Book Section VI-3)] – A
Recognized Classification Society [NMD Construction Regulation (Red Book Section VI-3)] is any
Classification Society with which the Ministry has entered into an agreement pursuant to §9 of the
Seaworthiness Act.
Statutory Certificates – Statutory Certificates are IMO convention certificates issued on behalf of, or
by, national authorities.
Supplier or Manufacturer – The Supplier or Manufacturer supplies materials, components, equipment
and systems to new and existing offshore units or industrial systems, whose product is subject to
design approval, surveys and testing in accordance with the Rules.

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 Chapter 2: Verification Methodology

CHAPTER 2 Verification Methodology

CONTENTS
SECTION 1 Basis and Procedures .........................................................11
1 General ................................................................................11
1.1 Acknowledgement of Compliance (AoC)......................... 11
1.3 Technical Norms and Standards ..................................... 11
3 Regulatory Basis..................................................................13
5 Regulatory Considerations ..................................................13
7 Verification Basis .................................................................14
9 Verification Procedures........................................................14
11 Classification Principles and Procedures.............................14

TABLE 1 ABS Applicable Rules/Guides....................................12

TABLE 2 Regulations/Standards other than Class ...................12
TABLE 3 Regulations ................................................................13

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 Section 1: Basis and Procedures

CHAPTER 2 Verification Methodology

SECTION 1 Basis and Procedures

1 General

1.1 Acknowledgement of Compliance (AoC) (1 March 2009)

An AoC is a decision made by the Petroleum Safety Authority (PSA) that the technical condition of a
MOU and the applicant’s organization and management systems are considered to be in compliance
with relevant requirements of Norwegian Shelf Legislation.
The AoC is mandatory and is applicable to all types of mobile facilities except storage units operating
on the NCS. MOUs, in this context, are units, registered by a Flag Administration and which follow a
maritime operational concept.
Note: In some cases (production storage/offloading) it may be a matter of judgment if the unit can be categorized as a
maritime practice “offshore unit” according to PSA regulations. It is recommended that the PSA be contacted at
an early stage of such projects for their clarification.
ABS services described in this document may be used by Owners to document partial compliance
with the PSA requirements for an AoC. To assist with the application for an AoC, a MOU is to meet
the requirements for the N-Notation as described in the appropriate sections of Chapter 3. The
N-Notation is obtained by the unit holding class certificates, being flagged and meeting supplementary
requirements of PSA and NMD.
Details of the AoC scheme are given in “Handbook for Application for Acknowledgement of Compliance
(AoC)” issued by OLF/NR. For further information and references, see 2-1/Tables 1 and 2 of this Guide.

1.3 Technical Norms and Standards (1 March 2009)

This Guide includes reference to other ABS documents, regulations, codes and standards which shall
be used in conjunction with the requirements of this Guide for assignment of the N-Notation. Unless
otherwise agreed, latest issues of the references shall be used.
2-1/Table 1 provides ABS Rules/Guides to be used in performing the required design verification.
2-1/Table 2 provides additional regulations/standards, other than class, to be used in performing the
required design verification for N-Notations.

ABS GUIDE FOR MOBILE OFFSHORE UNITS OPERATING ON NORWEGIAN CONTINENTAL SHELF, N-NOTATION . 2007 11
Chapter 2 Verification Methodology
Section 1 Basis and Procedures 2-1

TABLE 1
ABS Applicable Rules/Guides (1 March 2009)
ABS Rules/Guides
Rules for Building and Classing Mobile Offshore Drilling Units
Guide for Building and Classing Floating Production Installations
Rules for Materials and Welding (Part 2)
Guide for the Classification of Drilling Systems
Guide for Building and Classing Facilities on Offshore Installations
Guide for Lifting Appliances

TABLE 2
Regulations/Standards other than Class (1 March 2009)
Reference Title
PSA Regulations relating to health, environment and safety in the petroleum activities (Framework
Regulations)
PSA Regulations relating to design and outfitting of facilities etc., in the petroleum activities
PSA Regulations relating to conduct of activities in the petroleum activities
IMO MODU Code Code for the construction and equipment of Mobile Offshore Drilling Units
NMD Norwegian Maritime Directorate’s Regulations for Mobile Offshore Units (NMD Red Book)
NMD No. 123 Regulations for Mobile Offshore Units with production plants and equipment
NMD No. 227 Regulations concerning precautionary measures against fire and explosion on Mobile Offshore Units
NMD No. 853 Regulations concerning evacuation and lifesaving appliances on Mobile Offshore Units
NMD No. 865 Regulations concerning the construction of Mobile Offshore Units
NMD No. 857 Regulations concerning anchoring/positioning systems on Mobile Offshore Units
NMD No. 878 Regulations concerning stability, watertight subdivision and watertight/weathertight closing
means on Mobile Offshore Units
NMD No. 879 Regulations concerning ballast systems on Mobile Offshore Units
NMD No. 1200 Regulations concerning the installations and use of radio equipment on Mobile Offshore Units
NMD No. 1239 Regulations concerning risk analyses for mobile offshore units
NMD No. 72 Regulations concerning helicopter decks on mobile offshore units
NMD No. 2318 Regulations concerning the construction and equipment of living quarters on mobile offshore units
NMD Operation 858 Regulations concerning operation of Mobile Offshore Units
NMD No. 859 Regulations concerning protective, environmental and safety measures on mobile offshore units
NMD No. 854 Regulations concerning deck cranes, etc., on Mobile Offshore Units
NMD No. 860 Regulations concerning potable water systems potable water supply on Mobile Offshore Units
NMD No. 1331 Regulations concerning the prevention of pollution from the maritime operations of Mobile
Offshore Units
Norwegian Ministry of Local Regulations relating to asbestos
Government and Labour
API RP 14C Analysis, design, installation and testing of basic surface safety systems for Offshore Production
Platforms
ISO-13628 Design and operation of subsea production systems
ISO-10418 Analysis, design, installation and testing of basic surface safety systems
ISO 13702 Chapter 9 and Electrical Systems General Parts
Appendix C.1
IEC61892 Mobile and Fixed Offshore Units – Electrical Installations
IEC60092 Electrical Installations on Ships

12 ABS GUIDE FOR MOBILE OFFSHORE UNITS OPERATING ON NORWEGIAN CONTINENTAL SHELF, N-NOTATION . 2007
Chapter 2 Verification Methodology
Section 1 Basis and Procedures 2-1

TABLE 2 (continued)
Regulations/Standards other than Class (1 March 2009)
Reference Title
NORSOK D-001 Drilling Facilities
NORSOK L-001 Piping and valves
NORSOK L-002 Piping design, layout and stress analysis
NORSOK P-001 Process design
NORSOK P-100 Process systems
NORSOK S-001 Technical safety
NORSOK U-001 Subsea production systems
OLF/NR Handbook for Application for Acknowledgement of Compliance (AoC)
www.olf.no/getfile.php/Dokumenter/Retningslinjer/061-080/065%20AoC%20Handbook.pdf
IMO MSC Circular 645 Guidelines for vessels with dynamic positioning systems

3 Regulatory Basis (1 March 2009)

Petroleum Safety Authority (PSA) may issue the Acknowledgement of Compliance (AoC) when the
unit is complete and when the technical conditions and the applicant’s organization and management
systems are considered to be in compliance with the legal requirements of the Norwegian Continental
Shelf. Applicable regulations are given in 2-1/Table 3 and are available at:
www.ptil.no/main-page/category9.html?lang=en_US

TABLE 3
Regulations
Formal Regulations Title General Title
Regulations relating to Health, Environmental and Safety The Framework Regulations
Regulations relating to Management in the Petroleum Activities The Management Regulations
Regulations relating to Material and Information in the Petroleum Activities The Information and Duty Regulations
Regulations relating to Design and Outfitting of Facilities etc., in the Petroleum Activities The Facilities Regulations
Regulations relating to Conduct of Activities in the Petroleum Activities The Activities Regulations

5 Regulatory Considerations (1 March 2009)

According to Section 3 of the Framework Regulations, relevant technical requirements contained in
the Rules and Regulations, etc., which have been issued by the Norwegian Maritime Directorate together
with supplementary classification Rules and State Flag regulations, may be used as a basis for
documentation of compliance. Refer to Enclosure C of OLF/NR, “Handbook for Application for
Acknowledgement of Compliance (AoC)”. This handbook is available at:
www.olf.no/getfile.php/Dokumenter/Retningslinjer/061-080/065%20Aoc%20Handbook.pdf

ABS GUIDE FOR MOBILE OFFSHORE UNITS OPERATING ON NORWEGIAN CONTINENTAL SHELF, N-NOTATION . 2007 13
Chapter 2 Verification Methodology
Section 1 Basis and Procedures 2-1

7 Verification Basis (1 March 2009)

MOUs are to comply with the latest edition of the PSA Regulations, the referred to standards therein
and associated guidelines.
MOUs may be accepted for operation on the NCS by applying Chapter 1 Section 3 of the Framework
Regulations for marine aspects as an alternative to direct compliance with the PSA Facility Regulations.
The unit must be registered and comply with classification procedures with five yearly renewal surveys.
The maritime regulations and applicable classification Rules are to have a safety level at least
equivalent to that corresponding to the latest edition of the NMD Regulations for Mobile Offshore
Units (NMD Red Book) and Supplementary Offshore Classification Rules.
Drilling and production systems shall comply directly with the provisions of the PSA Facilities
Regulations, as shall working environmental issues. It is recommended that the PSA be contacted at
an early stage of the project to clarify the verification process.

9 Verification Procedures
In accordance with the Norwegian Petroleum Act, it is the responsibility of the Owner to ensure that
ongoing operations onboard the MOU comply with the applicable Rules and regulations.
The Applicant may choose to use internal as well as external verification activities work to demonstrate
partial or full compliance with their verification obligations. Documents issued for this purpose may
include, but are not limited to, the following:
• Classification Certificates
• Maritime certificates issued by flag state administration and associated Rules and regulations to
which certificates are issued.
• Evidence of compliance with Norwegian Maritime Directorate Regulations
• Verification reports or Statement of Compliance (SoC) issued by consultants/technical specialists
for the Owner/Operator.

11 Classification Principles and Procedures

Classification principles and procedures addressed in this Guide are stated in the applicable ABS
Rules/Guides.
The N-Notation will be issued and maintained based on satisfactory completion of the following activities:
• Design verification
• Certification of supplier-provided materials and equipment
• Surveys during construction
• Surveys after construction

14 ABS GUIDE FOR MOBILE OFFSHORE UNITS OPERATING ON NORWEGIAN CONTINENTAL SHELF, N-NOTATION . 2007
 Chapter 3: N-Notations

CHAPTER 3 N-Notations

CONTENTS
SECTION 1 Mobile Offshore Drilling Units ............................................17
1 Introduction ..........................................................................17
3 ABS N-Notation....................................................................17
5 Design Verification ...............................................................18
5.1 Classification ................................................................... 18
5.3 NMD Requirements Common with Class........................ 19
5.5 NMD Requirements in Addition to Class ......................... 20
5.7 PSA Requirements.......................................................... 21
5.9 Drilling Systems .............................................................. 21
7 Certification of Materials and Equipment .............................22
9 Surveys During Construction ...............................................22
11 Surveys After Construction ..................................................23
13 Procedures for Classification ...............................................23
15 Limitations............................................................................23

TABLE 1 Classification Requirements ......................................18

TABLE 2 NMD Requirements Common with Class ..................19
TABLE 3 NMD Requirements in Addition to Class ...................20
TABLE 4 Emergency Shutdown................................................21
TABLE 5 Drilling Systems .........................................................22

SECTION 2 Mobile Offshore Production Units......................................25

1 Introduction ..........................................................................25
3 ABS N-Notation....................................................................25
5 Design Verification ...............................................................26
5.1 Classification Requirements............................................ 26
5.3 NMD Requirements Common with Class........................ 27
5.5 NMD Requirements in Addition to Class ......................... 28
5.7 PSA Requirements.......................................................... 29
5.9 Production Facilities ........................................................ 30
7 Certification of Materials and Equipment .............................30
9 Surveys During Construction ...............................................31
11 Surveys After Construction ..................................................31
13 Procedures for Classification ...............................................31
15 Limitations............................................................................31

ABS GUIDE FOR MOBILE OFFSHORE UNITS OPERATING ON NORWEGIAN CONTINENTAL SHELF, N-NOTATION . 2007 15
 TABLE 1 Classification Requirements ......................................26
TABLE 2 NMD Requirements Common with Class ..................27
TABLE 3 NMD Requirements in Addition to Class ...................28
TABLE 4 Emergency Shutdown................................................29
TABLE 5 PSA – Production Facilities........................................30

16 ABS GUIDE FOR MOBILE OFFSHORE UNITS OPERATING ON NORWEGIAN CONTINENTAL SHELF, N-NOTATION . 2007
 Section 1: Mobile Offshore Drilling Units

CHAPTER 3 N-Notations

SECTION 1 Mobile Offshore Drilling Units

1 Introduction (1 March 2009)

The verification described herein may be applied to Mobile Offshore Drilling Units (MODUs), provided
they satisfy the following requirements:
• Classification requirements
• NMD requirements common to Class
• NMD requirements in addition to Class
• PSA requirements
• Drilling System requirements
To assist with the application for an AoC, a MODU is to meet the requirements for the N-Notation as
described in this Guide. N-Notations are assigned to MODUs holding class certificates, being flagged
and meeting supplementary requirements of PSA and NMD.

3 ABS N-Notation (1 March 2009)

Classification requirements given in this Guide are supplementary to the latest edition of ABS Rules.
In order to obtain the (N) symbol, a design verification to ABS Rules additional requirements given in
Appendix 1 is to be performed. Additionally, mobile offshore units are to comply with the latest edition
of the NMD and PSA Regulations, the associated guidelines and referenced standards.
Generally, class requirements are to be applied to all systems for which the (N) symbol has been
requested.
N-Notations for types of MODUs and systems are referenced below.
Type of MODU Notation
MODU (Self Elevating) À A1 Self Elevating Drilling Unit (N)
MODU (Column Stabilized) À A1 Column-Stabilized Drilling Unit (N)
MODU (Ship) À A1 Drilling Unit (N)
MODU (Barge) À A1 Barge Drilling Unit (N)

ABS GUIDE FOR MOBILE OFFSHORE UNITS OPERATING ON NORWEGIAN CONTINENTAL SHELF, N-NOTATION . 2007 17
Chapter 3 N-Notations
Section 1 Mobile Offshore Drilling Units 3-1

Other types of units designed as mobile offshore units which do not fall into the above categories may
be treated on an individual basis and assigned an appropriate classification notation similar to the
notations above.
Type of System Notation
Drilling System À CDS (N)

Note: Drilling systems are to be classed in accordance with the ABS CDS Guide in association with the process of
verification for the N-Notation. Where MODUs are fitted with production facilities and unless the Owner request
additional compliance, the production facilities will be subject to NORSOK standards. However, in order to verify
that safety is not impaired, ABS is to review the effect (area classification, loading, etc.) of the production facilities
on the unit.

5 Design Verification

5.1 Classification (1 March 2009)

A design verification to the ABS Rules is to be carried out for items indicated in 3-1/Table 1, (as
applicable) as referenced in Enclosure D of OLF/NR, “Handbook for Application for Acknowledgement
of Compliance (AoC)” which gives the applicable PSA Facility Regulations and alternatives to the
Facility Regulations for each SFI area. Additionally, technical verification is required for the
supplementary items given in Appendix 1 of this Guide, and with respect to the NMD’s Regulations
(Red Book), the delegated items from the NMD’s Red Book given in Appendix 2 of this Guide.
This Handbook is available at:
www.olf.no/getfile.php/Dokumenter/Retningslinjer/061-080/065%20AoC%20Handbook.pdf.
Upon completion of the technical verification, noted comments are to be satisfactorily addressed by
the applicant.

TABLE 1
Classification Requirements (1 March 2009)
Enclosure D Areas Item Comments
2, 20, 27, 28 Hull and Structure WSD Method Acceptable as
per Sec 3 HES,
488 Jacking Systems, spud tank, Jetting Systems for Jack-Ups
564 Walkway between Units Applicable to walkways to
Accommodation Units
57 Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Heating Systems Applicable to Ventilation in
Hazardous Areas only
58 Sanitary Systems with discharge
60, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66 Machinery and Main components
70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 79 Systems for Machinery and Main components
80 Common Systems
Ballast and Bilge Systems
813, 819 Fire/Washdown Systems, Emergency Fire Pumps, General Service
Pumps, Fire Fighting Systems for external fires, Fire Fighting Systems
with CO2 and Halon
82 Air and Sounding Systems from tank to deck
83 Special common Hydraulic Systems

18 ABS GUIDE FOR MOBILE OFFSHORE UNITS OPERATING ON NORWEGIAN CONTINENTAL SHELF, N-NOTATION . 2007
Chapter 3 N-Notations
Section 1 Mobile Offshore Drilling Units 3-1

5.3 NMD Requirements Common with Class (1 March 2009)

NMD design verification requirements for items indicated in 3-1/Table 2 are referenced in Enclosure D
of OLF/NR, “Handbook for Application for Acknowledgement of Compliance (AoC)”. This Handbook
is available at:
www.olf.no/getfile.php/Dokumenter/Retningslinjer/061-080/065%20AoC%20Handbook.pdf.
For NMD updates, visit:
www.sjofartsdir.no/en/Legislation_and_International_Relations/Translated_Norwegian_legislation/.
Items in 3-1/Table 2 will also be reviewed to the ABS Rules, as applicable.
During the contractual stage, ABS may be requested to issue a Statement of Compliance as part of the
design verification process.

TABLE 2
NMD Requirements Common with Class (1 March 2009)
Enclosure D Areas Item Comments
1 Stability, Watertight and Weathertight Integrity NMD
2, 488 Hull and Structures, Jacking System NMD Construction 6, 7, 10
NMD Stability 22, 30
11 Arrangement, Escape Ways, Hazardous Areas NMD Construction
NMD Living Quarters
NMD Fire
NMD Operations, 13
AoC Handbook Enc A3
566 Helicopter decks with equipment NMD Helideck

66 Aggregates and generators for emergency power production NMD Construction

408 Dynamic Positioning Plant NMD Anchoring
IMO MSC 645
810 Fire detection, fire and lifeboat alarm systems NMD Fire except specific
811 requirements to sound and
light alarms for 810 only
812 Emergency shut down system NMD Fire
‘yes’ for drilling unit part,
‘no’ for process plant
(well testing facilities should
be considered as a process for
drilling unit)
813 to 819 Fire/wash down system, emergency fire pump and general service pumps NMD Fire
Fire fighting systems for external fires NMD Helideck
Fire fighting systems with C02 and Halon gases
80, 82 Ballast and Bilge Systems NMD Ballast
NMD Pollution
85 Electrical Systems General Part NMD Construction
86 Electrical Power Supply (and reference to 89/336/EEC
87 Electrical Distribution Common Systems and 92/31/EEC)
88 Electrical Cable Installation Regulations concerning
maritime electrical
89 Electrical Consumers (lighting etc.) installations
For SFI 87 and 88 refer to
SFI 408 for dynamically
positioned units.
See 3-1/Table 4

ABS GUIDE FOR MOBILE OFFSHORE UNITS OPERATING ON NORWEGIAN CONTINENTAL SHELF, N-NOTATION . 2007 19
Chapter 3 N-Notations
Section 1 Mobile Offshore Drilling Units 3-1

5.5 NMD Requirements in Addition to Class (1 March 2009)

NMD design verification requirements for items indicated in 3-1/Table 3 are referenced in Enclosure D
of OLF/NR, “Handbook for Application for Acknowledgement of Compliance (AoC)”.
This Handbook is available at:
www.olf.no/getfile.php/Dokumenter/Retningslinjer/061-080/065%20AoC%20Handbook.pdf.
For NMD updates, visit:
www.sjofartsdir.no/en/Legislation_and_International_Relations/Translated_Norwegian_legislation/.

TABLE 3
NMD Requirements in Addition to Class (1 March 2009)
Enclosure D Areas Item Comments
11 Winterization NMD Construction
Working Environment NMD Living Quarters
41 Navigation and Searching Equipment, Light and Signal Equipment NMD Construction
427 Coast Directorate Regulations for marking of facilities in the NMD Helicopter Decks
Petroleum Industry
421 Radio Plant NMD Radio
422 Lifeboat radio transmitters, emergency radio, direction finder NMD Lifesaving Appliances
425 Calling system, command telephone etc., NMD Fire
NMD Crane
NMD Anchoring
See SFI 811
43 Anchoring, Mooring and Towing Equipment NMD Anchoring,
(401-407) Appendix 2 of this Guide
Not applicable for SEDUs
441-447 Repair Maintenance, Cleaning Equipment and Outfitting Facility Regs Sec. 9
Machine tools, Cutting and Welding equipment NMD Welding
448 Name Plates (markings) on machinery, pipes, cables NMD Protective
Environmental
45 Lifting and Transport Equipment for machinery components NMD Protective
(Offshore Cranes see Area 563) Environmental
501 Lifeboats with equipment Follow Facilities Regulations
directly (deviation from AoC
Handbook Rev 3)
For new facilities or after larger
rebuilding projects free-fall
lifeboats are required. Both
lifeboats and MOB boat must
be addressed under these
regulations
502, 503 Life rafts with equipment, NMD Life Saving Appliances
Lifesaving, safety and emergency equipment
504 Medical and Dental Equipment, NMD Living Quarters
Medicines and First Aid Equipment Facility Regs Sec. 60, 61
505 Loose fire fighting Apparatuses and Equipment, fireman’s suit NMD Fire
51, 52, 53 Living Quarters NMD Construction
Note: It is presupposed that requirements concerning watertight NMD Living Quarters
integrity and load line will be considered in Area 1 NMD Fire
54, 55 Living Quarters NMD Living Quarters

20 ABS GUIDE FOR MOBILE OFFSHORE UNITS OPERATING ON NORWEGIAN CONTINENTAL SHELF, N-NOTATION . 2007
Chapter 3 N-Notations
Section 1 Mobile Offshore Drilling Units 3-1

TABLE 3 (continued)
NMD Requirements in Addition to Class (1 March 2009)
Enclosure D Areas Item Comments
561 Personnel Lifts, Escalators (other than drill floor) NMD Protective
563 Deck Cranes (see 1.1/§ 22a of Appendix 2) Environmental
NMD Construction 23
57 Ventilation, air conditioning and heating system NMD Fire
76 Distilled and Made-up Water Systems NMD Potable Water
79 Automation systems for machinery NMD Risk Analysis 22
Note
1 SFI 11, 441-447, 45, 504, 54, 55, 561, 563, 79 of 3-1/Table 3 above
EU directives and owner’s management system covered by the AoC are not included in the N-Notation.

5.7 PSA Requirements (1 March 2009)

Emergency shutdown indicated in 3-1/Table 4 is referenced in Enclosure D of OLF/NR, “Handbook
for Application for Acknowledgement of Compliance (AoC)”.
This Handbook is available at:
www.olf.no/getfile.php/Dokumenter/Retningslinjer/061-080/065%20AoC%20Handbook.pdf.

TABLE 4
Emergency Shutdown (1 March 2009)
Enclosure D Areas Item Comments
812 Emergency Shut Down
FR Sec. 32 (Well Testing Facilities as ISO 13702 Ch.6 and 7 and App B.2 and B.3
process for Drilling Unit)
FR Sec. 33 (Well Testing) ISO 10418 or API 14C
FR Sec. 34 (Well Testing) ISO 13702 Ch.6 and App B.2
S-001 Ch.6.9 and App E

5.9 Drilling Systems (1 March 2009)

At the request of the client, design verification is to be carried out to the ABS CDS Guide and the
applicable parts of NORSOK D-001 as indicated in the PSA Facilities Regulations with guidelines for
SFI 30A to 39A for items indicated in 3-1/Table 5 and referenced in Enclosure D of OLF/NR,
“Handbook for Application for Acknowledgement of Compliance (AoC)”.
This Handbook is available at:
www.olf.no/getfile.php/Dokumenter/Retningslinjer/061-080/065%20AoC%20Handbook.pdf.
Upon completion of the technical verification, the noted comments are to be satisfactorily addressed
by the applicant. It is recommended that the Drilling System be classed so that the N-Notation may be
assigned and to avoid any difficulties that interfaces between plant and vessel may create.

ABS GUIDE FOR MOBILE OFFSHORE UNITS OPERATING ON NORWEGIAN CONTINENTAL SHELF, N-NOTATION . 2007 21
Chapter 3 N-Notations
Section 1 Mobile Offshore Drilling Units 3-1

TABLE 5
Drilling Systems
Enclosure D Areas Item Comments
30A Derrick with Components
31A Drill Floor Equipment and Systems
32A Bulk and Mud Systems
33A Well Control Equipment and Systems
34A Pipe Handling Equipment and Systems
35A Drill String and Downhole Equipment and Systems
36A Material Handling Equipment and Systems
37A Service Equipment and Systems
38A Miscellaneous Equipment, Systems and Services
39A Marine Riser, Riser Compensator and Drillstring

In addition to complying with the above, further compliance is required with PSA Facilities Regulations
with Guidelines. Chapter IV-I is available at www.ptil.no/main-page/category9.html?lang=en_US,
and contains following the applicable sections:
• Section 47 Well Barriers
• Section 48 Well Control Equipment
• Section 49 Compensator and Disconnection Systems
• Section 50 Drilling Fluid Systems
• Section 51 Cementing Unit
• Section 52 Casings and Anchoring of Wells
• Section 53 Equipment for Completion and Controlled Well Floor
• Section 54 Christmas Tree
• Section 55 Remote Operation of Pipes and Work Strings

7 Certification of Materials and Equipment

In addition to the ABS classification surveys per applicable ABS Rules and Guides, surveys carried
out at the supplier’s facility are also to meet the design verification requirements of Chapter 3, Section 1
of this Guide.

9 Surveys During Construction

In addition to the ABS classification surveys per applicable ABS Rules and Guides, surveys carried
out during construction of the MODU are also to meet the design verification requirements of Chapter 3,
Section 1 of this Guide.

22 ABS GUIDE FOR MOBILE OFFSHORE UNITS OPERATING ON NORWEGIAN CONTINENTAL SHELF, N-NOTATION . 2007
Chapter 3 N-Notations
Section 1 Mobile Offshore Drilling Units 3-1

11 Surveys After Construction (1 March 2009)

Surveys after construction during the maintenance phase are to be carried out at intervals defined in
the ABS Rules and in accordance with applicable ABS Rules and Guides.
Gap analyses are to be carried out at intervals not exceeding five years, and preferably before completion
of the Special Periodical Survey, to show that the applicant has control over the effect of changes
between original and latest edition of the applicable technical references. These analyses may be
required by PSA at more frequent intervals.

13 Procedures for Classification

To avoid duplication of work, activities related to issuance and maintenance of N-Notations are to be
carried out as an integral part of activities related to the class requirements of MODUs. Class
procedures are to be followed for issuance of applicable class notations.

15 Limitations (1 March 2009)

The following items subject to PSA requirements for the AoC application are outside of the scope for
N-Notation:
• Emergency preparedness
• Owner’s management systems onboard and onshore.
• Development of risk analysis.
• Prevention of harmful effects of tobacco.
• Working protection and working environmental issues.
• European Union (EU) Directives
• Regularity and Reliability Issues
• Protection against pollution
• Cranes and lifting appliances (for Deck Cranes see 1.1/§ 22a of Appendix 2)
• Welding Central
• Water quality
• Operational requirements
• Drilling plant (N-Notation is optional)
• Winterization and Arctic operational issues

ABS GUIDE FOR MOBILE OFFSHORE UNITS OPERATING ON NORWEGIAN CONTINENTAL SHELF, N-NOTATION . 2007 23
This Page Intentionally Left Blank
 Section 2: Mobile Offshore Production Units

CHAPTER 3 N-Notations

SECTION 2 Mobile Offshore Production Units

1 Introduction (1 March 2009)

The verification described herein may be applied to Mobile Offshore Production Units (MOPUs),
provided they satisfy the following requirements:
• Classification requirements
• NMD requirements common to class
• NMD requirements in addition to class
• PSA requirements
• Production Facility requirements
In the application for an AoC, a MOPU is to meet the requirements for the N-Notation described in
this Guide. N-Notations are assigned to MOPUs holding class certificates, being flagged and meeting
supplementary requirements of PSA and NMD.
Section 3 of the Framework Regulations is not applicable to the production facilities and therefore
items are to comply with NORSOK and other standards as indicated in 3-2 Table 5.
Special consideration may be given for the classification of the production facilities where the facility
has been determined to be in full compliance with NORSOK requirements.
Production systems and equipment for use in the Norwegian Continental Shelf are to comply directly
with the provisions given in the PSA Regulations.

3 ABS N-Notation (1 March 2009)

Classification requirements given in this Guide are supplementary to the latest edition of ABS Rules.
In order to obtain the (N) symbol, a design verification to the ABS Rules is to be performed.
Additionally, mobile offshore units are to comply with the latest edition of the NMD and PSA
Regulations, the associated guidelines and referenced standards.
Generally, class requirements are to be applied to all systems for which the (N) symbol has been
requested. Unless the Owner requests additional compliance, production facilities will be subject to
NORSOK standards. In order to verify that safety is not impaired, ABS is to review the effect (area
classification, loading, etc.) of these systems on the unit. However it is recommended that the
production facility be classed so that the N-Notation may be assigned and to avoid any difficulties that
the interfaces between plant and vessel may create.

ABS GUIDE FOR MOBILE OFFSHORE UNITS OPERATING ON NORWEGIAN CONTINENTAL SHELF, N-NOTATION . 2007 25
Chapter 3 N-Notations
Section 2 Mobile Offshore Production Units 3-2

N-Notations for types of MOPUs and systems are referenced below.

Type of MOPU Notation
FPS À A1 Floating Production (and Offloading) System (N)
FPSO À A1 Floating Production, Storage and Offloading System (N)
FOI* À A1 Floating Offshore Installations (N)

* Note: FOI Notation means that although the offshore unit is fitted with production facilities, the Owner did not desire
classification of the production facilities.
Other types of units designed as mobile offshore units which do not fall into the above categories may
be treated on an individual basis and assigned an appropriate classification notation similar to the
notations above. The AoC scheme is not applicable to floating storage units.
At this time, ABS does not offer any specific class notation for production facilities. However, the “P”
in above FPS or FPSO type units designate that the offshore installation is fitted with production
facilities and classification of the production facilities was desired by the Owner.
Note: Production systems are to be classed in accordance with the ABS Facilities Guide in association with the process
of verification for the N-Notation.

5 Design Verification

5.1 Classification Requirements (1 March 2009)

A design verification to the ABS Rules is to be carried out for items indicated in 3-2/Table 1 (as
applicable), as referenced in Enclosure D of OLF/NR, “Handbook for Application for Acknowledgement
of Compliance (AoC)” which gives the applicable PSA Facility Regulations and alternatives to the
Facility Regulations for each SFI area. Additionally, technical verification is required for the
supplementary items given in Appendix 1 of this Guide, and with respect to the NMD’s Regulations
(Red Book), the delegated items given in Appendix 2 of this Guide.
This Handbook is available at:
www.olf.no/getfile.php/Dokumenter/Retningslinjer/061-080/065%20AoC%20Handbook.pdf.
Upon completion of the technical verification, noted comments are to be satisfactorily addressed by
the applicant.

TABLE 1
Classification Requirements (1 March 2009)
Enclosure D Areas Item Comments
2, 20, 27, 28 Hull and Structure WSD Method Acceptable as
26 Turret per Sec 3 HES
NMD Production
488 Jacking Systems, spud tank, Jetting Systems for Jack-Ups
57 Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Heating Systems Applicable to Ventilation in
Hazardous Areas only
58 Sanitary Systems with discharge
60, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66 Machinery and Main components
70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 79 Systems for Machinery and Main components

26 ABS GUIDE FOR MOBILE OFFSHORE UNITS OPERATING ON NORWEGIAN CONTINENTAL SHELF, N-NOTATION . 2007
Chapter 3 N-Notations
Section 2 Mobile Offshore Production Units 3-2

TABLE 1 (continued)
Classification Requirements (1 March 2009)
Enclosure D Areas Item Comments
80 Common Systems
Ballast and Bilge Systems
813, 819 Fire/Washdown Systems, Emergency Fire Pumps, General Service
Pumps, Fire Fighting Systems for external fires, Fire Fighting Systems
with CO2 and Halon
82 Air and Sounding Systems from tank to deck
83 Special common Hydraulic Systems

5.3 NMD Requirements Common with Class (1 March 2009)

NMD design verification requirements for items indicated in 3-2/Table 2 are referenced in Enclosure D
of OLF/NR, “Handbook for Application for Acknowledgement of Compliance (AoC)”. This Handbook
is available at:
www.olf.no/getfile.php/Dokumenter/Retningslinjer/061-080/065%20AoC%20Handbook.pdf.
For NMD updates, visit:
www.sjofartsdir.no/en/Legislation_and_International_Relations/Translated_Norwegian_legislation/.
Items in 3-2/Table 2 will also be reviewed to the ABS Rules, as applicable.
During the contractual stage, ABS may be requested to issue a Statement of Compliance as part of the
design verification process.

TABLE 2
NMD Requirements Common with Class (1 March 2009)
Enclosure D Area Reference Comments
1 Stability, Watertight and Weathertight integrity NMD
NMD Production 17, 2.3
2, 488 Hull and Structures, Jacking System NMD Construction 6, 7, 10
NMD Stability 22, 30
11 Arrangement, Escape Ways, Hazardous Areas NMD Construction
NMD Living Quarters
NMD Fire
NMD Operations, 13
AoC Handbook Enc A3
810 Fire detection, fire and lifeboat alarm systems NMD Fire except specific
811 requirements to sound and
light alarms for 810 only
566 Helicopter Decks with equipment NMD Helideck
66 Aggregates and generators for emergency power productions NMD Construction
NMD Production
80, 82 Ballast and Bilge Systems NMD Ballast
NMD Pollution
36B Offloading Systems NMD Production
26 Turret NMD Production
43 (401-407) Anchoring, mooring and towing equipment NMD Anchoring/Production

ABS GUIDE FOR MOBILE OFFSHORE UNITS OPERATING ON NORWEGIAN CONTINENTAL SHELF, N-NOTATION . 2007 27
Chapter 3 N-Notations
Section 2 Mobile Offshore Production Units 3-2

TABLE 2 (continued)
NMD Requirements Common with Class (1 March 2009)
Enclosure D Area Reference Comments
408 Dynamic Positioning Plant NMD Anchoring
IMO MSC 645
46 VOC/Blanket Gas System NMD Production
85 Electrical Systems General Part NMD Construction
86 Electrical Power Supply (and reference to 89/336/EEC
87 Electrical Distribution Common Systems and 92/31/EEC)
88 Electrical Cable Installation Regulations concerning
maritime electrical
89 Electrical Consumers (lighting etc.) installations
For SFI 87 and 88 refer to
SFI 408 for dynamically
positioned units.
See 3-2 Table 4

5.5 NMD Requirements in Addition to Class (1 March 2009)

NMD design verification requirements for items indicated in 3-2/Table 3 are referenced in Enclosure D
of OLF/NR, “Handbook for Application for Acknowledgement of Compliance (AoC)”.
This Handbook is available at:
www.olf.no/getfile.php/Dokumenter/Retningslinjer/061-080/065%20AoC%20Handbook.pdf.
For NMD updates, visit:
www.sjofartsdir.no/en/Legislation_and_International_Relations/Translated_Norwegian_legislation/.

TABLE 3
NMD Requirements in Addition to Class (1 March 2009)
Enclosure D Areas Item Comments
11 Winterization NMD Construction
Working Environment NMD Living Quarters
Enclosure A3
41 Navigation and Searching Equipment, Light and Signal Equipment NMD Construction
427 Coast Directorate Regulations for marking of facilities in the NMD Helicopter Decks
Petroleum Industry
421 Radio Equipment, Communication Equipment NMD Radio
422 Lifeboat radio transmitters, emergency radios, direction finder NMD Lifesaving Appliances
425 Calling, System, Command etc. NMD Fire
NMD Crane
NMD Anchoring
See SFI 811
441-447 Repair Maintenance, Cleaning Equipment and Outfitting Facility Regs Sec. 9
Machine tools, Cutting and Welding equipment NMD Welding
448 Name Plates (markings) on machinery, pipes, cables NMD Protective
Environmental
45 Lifting and Transport Equipment for machinery components (Offshore NMD Protective
Cranes see Area 563) Environmental

28 ABS GUIDE FOR MOBILE OFFSHORE UNITS OPERATING ON NORWEGIAN CONTINENTAL SHELF, N-NOTATION . 2007
Chapter 3 N-Notations
Section 2 Mobile Offshore Production Units 3-2

TABLE 3 (continued)
NMD Requirements in Addition to Class (1 March 2009)
Enclosure D Areas Item Comments
501 Lifeboats with equipment Follow Facilities Regulations
directly (deviation from AoC
Handbook Rev 3)
For new facilities or after larger
rebuilding projects free-fall
lifeboats are required. Both
lifeboats and MOB boat must
be addressed under these
regulations
502, 503 Life rafts with equipment, NMD Life Saving
Lifesaving and emergency equipment Appliances
504 Medical and Dental Equipment, NMD Living Quarters
Medicines and First Aid Equipment Facility Regs Sec. 60, 61
505 Loose fire fighting Apparatuses and Equipment, fireman’s suit NMD Fire
51, 52, 53 Living Quarters : It is presupposed that the requirements concerning NMD Construction
watertight integrity and load line will be considered in Area 9 NMD Living Quarters
NMD Fire
54, 55 Living Quarters NMD Living Quarters
561 Personnel Lifts, Escalators (other than drill floor) NMD Protective
563 Deck Cranes (see 1.1/§ 22a of Appendix 2) Environmental
NMD Construction 23
57 Ventilation, air conditioning and heating system NMD Fire
76 Distilled and made-up water Systems NMD Potable Water
79 Automation systems for machinery NMD Risk Analysis 22
Note
1 SFI11, 441-447, 45, 504, 54, 55, 561, 563, 79 of 3-2/Table 3 above
EU directives and owner’s management system covered by the AoC are not included in the N-Notation.

5.7 PSA Requirements (1 March 2009)

Emergency shutdown indicated in 3-2/Table 4 is referenced in Enclosure D of OLF/NR, “Handbook
for Application for Acknowledgement of Compliance (AoC)”.
This Handbook is available at:
www.olf.no/getfile.php/Dokumenter/Retningslinjer/061-080/065%20AoC%20Handbook.pdf.

TABLE 4
Emergency Shutdown (1 March 2009)
Enclosure D Areas Item Comments
812 Emergency Shut Down
FR Sec. 32 (Well Testing Facilities as ISO 13702 Ch.6 and 7 and App B.2 and B.3
process for Drilling Unit)
FR Sec. 33 (Well Testing) ISO 10418 or API 14C
FR Sec. 34 (Well Testing) ISO 13702 Ch.6 and App B.2
S-001 Ch.6.9 and App E

ABS GUIDE FOR MOBILE OFFSHORE UNITS OPERATING ON NORWEGIAN CONTINENTAL SHELF, N-NOTATION . 2007 29
Chapter 3 N-Notations
Section 2 Mobile Offshore Production Units 3-2

5.9 Production Facilities (1 March 2009)

PSA design verification requirements for items indicated in 3-2/Table 5 are referenced in Enclosure D
of OLF/NR, “Handbook for Application for Acknowledgement of Compliance (AoC)”.
This Handbook is available at:
www.olf.no/getfile.php/Dokumenter/Retningslinjer/061-080/065%20AoC%20Handbook.pdf.
It is recommended that the production system be classed in accordance with the ABS Facilities Guide
to avoid any difficulties that the interfaces between plant and vessel may create.

TABLE 5
PSA – Production Facilities (1 March 2009)
Enclosure D Areas Item Comments
--- Production Plants General PSA Facilities Regulations
Chapter IV-II Including
guidelines
301B Inlet from risers, manifold, swivels etc. S-001, S-002N, L-001, L-002,
P-001, P-100, R-004, M-001,
M-601, ISO 6385, 13702
302B Separation Equipment (including water treatment) As in 301B and R-001, R-100,
S-005
303B Compression Equipment As in 301B and R-001, S-005,
NS 4931
304B Water injection Equipment As in 301B
31B Auxiliary Equipment, Dedicated Process Equipment As in 301B
32B Chemical Equipment As in 301B
331B Process Shut Down (PSD) S-001, S-002N, ISO 13702,
11064, 10418 (API 14C),
IEC 61508, NS-EN 614, 894,
OLF-Guideline 70, PSA
YA-710
332B Emergency Shutdown (ESD) As in 301B
333B De-pressurization, Safety Valves, corresponding Flare Systems As in 301B
334B Open Drains for Process Facility S-001, L-001, P-001, ISO
13702
34B Load Bearing Structure for Process Equipment NMD Production
36B Offloading Equipment L-001, L-002
37B Metering for Oil and Gas export, Injection, Combustion of Gas, FR Sec 9, Sec 16
Flaring Gas Management Reg Sec 18
Note: (1 March 2009) The NORSOK standards are available at http://www.standard.no/imaker.exe?id=541

7 Certification of Materials and Equipment

In addition to the ABS classification surveys per applicable ABS Rules and Guides, surveys carried
out at the supplier’s facility are also to meet the design verification requirements of Chapter 3, Section 2
of this Guide.

30 ABS GUIDE FOR MOBILE OFFSHORE UNITS OPERATING ON NORWEGIAN CONTINENTAL SHELF, N-NOTATION . 2007
Chapter 3 N-Notations
Section 2 Mobile Offshore Production Units 3-2

9 Surveys During Construction

In addition to the ABS classification surveys per applicable ABS Rules and Guides, surveys carried out
during construction of the MOPU are also to meet the design verification requirements of Chapter 3,
Section 2 of this Guide.

11 Surveys After Construction (1 March 2009)

Surveys after construction during the maintenance phase are to be carried out at intervals defined in
the ABS Rules and in accordance with applicable ABS Rules and Guides.
Gap analyses are to be carried out at intervals not exceeding five years, and preferably before completion
of the Special Periodical Survey, to show that the applicant has control over the effect of change between
the original and latest edition of the applicable technical references. This analysis may be required by
PSA at more frequent intervals.

13 Procedures for Classification

To avoid duplication of work, activities related to the issuance and maintenance of the N-Notation are
to be carried out as an integral part of the activities related to the class requirements of MOPUs. Class
procedures are to be followed for the issuance of applicable class notations.

15 Limitations (1 March 2009)

The following items subject to PSA requirements for the AoC application are outside the scope of the
N-Notation:
• Emergency preparedness
• Owner’s management systems onboard and onshore.
• Development of risk analysis.
• Prevention of harmful effects of tobacco.
• Working protection and working environmental issues.
• European Union (EU) Directives
• Regularity and Reliability Issues
• Protection against pollution
• Cranes and lifting appliances (Deck Cranes see 1.1/§ 22a of Appendix 2)
• Welding central
• Water Quality
• Operational Requirements
• Production Plant (N-Notation optional)
• Winterization and Arctic operation issues

ABS GUIDE FOR MOBILE OFFSHORE UNITS OPERATING ON NORWEGIAN CONTINENTAL SHELF, N-NOTATION . 2007 31
This Page Intentionally Left Blank
 Appendix 1: Additional Classification Requirements

APPENDIX 1 Additional Classification

Requirements (1 March 2009)

Summary of Gap Analysis

For units operating in the Norwegian Continental Shelf, ABS will carry out additional reviews for the
following:
Item Gap Requirements
1 Bilge System A graphic panel, showing all components of bilge and drainage systems shall be suitably
positioned at the bilge pumping station.

2 Platform Piping Pipe tunnels to be fitted with an air pipe not less than 75 mm internal diameter.

3 Platform Piping Sounding rods are to be spark proof for liquids having flash point below 60°C.

4 Machinery Piping Strums shall be fitted to all sea chest openings in the shell plating. The total area of the
strum holes shall be at least twice the total floor area in the sea water inlet valves.

5 Machinery Piping Remote stop of hydraulic oil pumps from a central place outside the engine and boiler
rooms is to be provided.

6 Steam Systems If two or more boilers are connected to a common header or steam manifold the steam
connection to each boiler shall be provided with two shut off valves with a free blowing
drain in between. This requirement does not apply to exhaust gas economizers with
forced circulations.

7 Hydraulic Piston rods with diameter less than 5% of the length between the mountings in the fully
Cylinders extracted position, buckling calculations shall be documented.

8 Ventilation Engine room supply and exhaust fans are to be arranged with redundancy.

9 Gas Turbines Gas turbines are to be shut down on loss of control power failure.

10 Thrusters It should be possible to lock the thrusters in the neutral position to allow it to produce thrust
in case its steering gear is inoperative.

11 Thrusters a) Lubricating oil tanks are to be provided with a low level alarm.
b) Torsional vibrations – calculations for the first and second order natural frequency
shall be submitted. Natural frequencies are not permitted in the range 0.8 - 1.2 blade
order frequency at MCR unless the vibratory torque is documented to be within
approved limits.

12 Compressors Design of crankshafts are to be provided for air compressors rated above 200 kW.

13 Boilers Boilers and steam heated generators are to be provided with two safety valves for heating
surface of 10 m2 and greater

ABS GUIDE FOR MOBILE OFFSHORE UNITS OPERATING ON NORWEGIAN CONTINENTAL SHELF, N-NOTATION . 2007 33
Appendix 1 Additional Classification Requirements A1

Item Gap Requirements

14 Steering Gear Overbalanced rudders and rudders of unconventional design:
a) The influence of increased friction due to age and wear of bearings on steering gear
torque capacity shall be duly considered. Unless such friction losses are accounted
for and specified in submitted approval documentation, the friction coefficient for
the bearing in worn condition shall be taken at least twice as when new.
b) Steering gear shall be capable of bringing the rudder from any rudder angle back to
neutral position. This is to be verified by testing on sea trial

15 Jacking Systems An interlock is to be provided between electrical motor and fixation rack system (if any) in
order to prevent power supply to the motors when the fixation rack is engaged.

16 Jacking Systems A permanent remote indication of loads during jacking and retrieval is to be provided. For
lattice leg unit the load per chord is to be presented. Alarm is to be given when maximum
load is exceeded.

17 CSDU Additional analysis to demonstrate adequacy of unit’s for installation and retrieval.
SEDU Loads to be considered are:
a) functional loads
b) maximum environmental loads and associated functional loads
c) accidental loads and associated functional loads
d) environmental loads corresponding to a return period of one year and associated
functional loads after credible or accidental events
e) environmental loads corresponding to a return period of one year and associated
functional loads in a heeled condition corresponding to accidental flooding
The applied loads are to be at least 80% of the loads associated with the severe storm
condition that was used for the design of the unit. The maximum calculated stresses in
the structure after the loss of a slender bracing member are to be less than the specified
minimum yield strength of the material.

18 Unit’s Condition Strength analysis to demonstrate unit’s adequacy for the damaged condition.

19 Design Load Additional analysis for accidental loads and one year return period for all loading
Condition requirements as 17 above.

For Column Stabilized Drilling Units, structural redundancy is required so that the unit’s
structure is to be able to withstand the loss of a slender bracing member without causing a
collapse of the unit’s structure.

For Jack-Ups assumed damaged condition such as loss of one main carrying brace or loss of
one main load carrying deck girder may not be required due to high redundancy but damage
condition in transit due to accidental flooding causing the unit heeling is required
For Jack-Ups, since lattice legs have a high degree of structural redundancy, analysis to
demonstrate structural redundancy is not required.

20 Design to account for site specific environmental conditions.

For Jack-Ups, analyses are to be submitted to demonstrate adequacy of foundation (soils).

21 Ship Type For ship shape units:

1. Adequacy for the unit is to be assessed for the following loads:
a) Maximum gravity and functional loads
b) Design environmental loads and associated gravity and functional loads
c) Accidental loads and associated gravity and functional loads
d) Design environmental loads and associated gravity and functional loads after
credible failures or accidents
e) Maximum gravity and functional loads in a heeled condition after accidental
flooding
2. Design to account for site specific environmental conditions

34 ABS GUIDE FOR MOBILE OFFSHORE UNITS OPERATING ON NORWEGIAN CONTINENTAL SHELF, N-NOTATION . 2007
 Appendix 2: Extract – Applicable NMD Technical Delegated Items

APPENDIX 2 Extract – Applicable NMD

Technical Delegated Items
(1 March 2009)

CONTENTS
1 With Respect to the NMD’s Regulations for Mobile
Offshore Units (Red Book)...................................................37
1.1 Regulations of 4 September 1987 no. 856 Concerning
Construction of Mobile Offshore Units............................. 37
1.3 Regulations of 31 January 1984 no. 227 Concerning
Precautionary Measure Against Fire and Explosion
on Mobile Offshore Units................................................. 38
3 Regulations of the 17 December 1986 no. 2319
Concerning Field Moves and Towing Of Mobile
Offshore Units and Concerning Towing System
and Mooring of Supply Ships at Such Units ........................38
5 Regulations of 4 September 1987 no. 857 Concerning
Anchoring/Positioning Systems on Mobile Offshore
Units .....................................................................................38
7 Regulations of 20 December 1991 no. 878 Concerning
Stability, Watertight Subdivision and Watertight/
Weathertight Closing Means on Mobile Offshore
Units .....................................................................................39
9 Regulations of 20 December 1991 no. 879 Concerning
Ballast Systems on Mobile Offshore Units...........................39
11 Regulations of 10 February 1994 no. 123 for Mobile
Offshore Units with Production Plants and
Equipment............................................................................39
13 Regulations of 22 December 1993 no. 1240 Concerning
Helicopter Decks on Mobile Offshore Units .........................40

ABS GUIDE FOR MOBILE OFFSHORE UNITS OPERATING ON NORWEGIAN CONTINENTAL SHELF, N-NOTATION . 2007 35
This Page Intentionally Left Blank
APPENDIX 2 Extract – Applicable NMD
Technical Delegated Items
(1 March 2009)

1 With Respect to the NMD’s Regulations for Mobile Offshore

Units (Red Book)

1.1 Regulations of 4 September 1987 no. 856 Concerning Construction of Mobile

Offshore Units
The RO shall verify that specific requirements in the following paragraphs are met:

§ 6.1 and § 6.2

• Hull construction and strength, including selection of materials, for operation in the anticipated
environmental conditions of the areas in which the unit will operate.
• Strength calculations of the unit and parts thereof, in accordance with applicable design criteria
and calculation systematics as set forth in the RO’s classification rules. The term ‘main structural
members’ (ref.§ 6.2.1) includes, where applicable, items like derrick and derrick foundations, flare
boom and flare boom foundation, stringer and stringer foundation and foundations of winches and
of launching arrangements for lifeboats, rescue boats and life rafts.
• That the calculations take into consideration the effect of accidental loads as identified in the risk
analysis and duly consider residual hull strength. Ref. Regulations of 22 December 1993 no. 1239
concerning risk analysis for mobile offshore units and regulations of 20 December 1991 no. 878
concerning stability, watertight subdivision and watertight/weathertight closing means on mobile
offshore units.

§ 6.2.1, 6.2.9 and 6.5

Elevating system of jack-up units

§ 6.4
Construction, performance and control, including NDE (nondestructive examination).

§ 6.7.1
Securing of superstructures, heavy equipment and deck load with regard to withstanding the determined
angles of heel. Note 1

§ 6b
Machinery system as listed in the regulations in accordance with RO rules. Machinery in hazardous
areas in accordance with Chapter 6.7 of the MODU Code.

ABS GUIDE FOR MOBILE OFFSHORE UNITS OPERATING ON NORWEGIAN CONTINENTAL SHELF, N-NOTATION . 2007 37
Appendix 2 Extract – Applicable NMD Technical Delegated Items A2

§ 7.3.2.1 and § 7.3.2.4

Minimum design temperatures used in the design and construction of the unit and in particular the
structural strength consequence evaluation of ice load on components and equipment. Include hull,
helicopter deck, deck cranes, and davits for lifeboats, rescue boats and life rafts, etc.

§ 22a
Verification of compliance with [NS-EN 13852-1] or an equivalent international standard. Note 2
Note 1 Refer to Regulations of 20th December 1991 no. 878 concerning stability, watertight subdivision and
watertight/weathertight closing means on mobile offshore units
Note 2 This delegation enters into force when §22a in Regulations of 4th September 1987 concerning the Construction of
MOU is adopted and enters into force.

1.3 Regulations of 31 January 1984 no. 227 Concerning Precautionary Measure

Against Fire and Explosion on Mobile Offshore Units
The RO shall verify that specific requirements in the following paragraphs are met:

§ 6 and § 7
Dimensioning, strength, function, and workmanship of the components of the fire extinguishing system
in accordance with the RO’s Rules with respect to levels of pressure, capacity, load and the like, as
specified in the NMD regulations.

3 Regulations of the 17 December 1986 no. 2319 Concerning

Field Moves and Towing Of Mobile Offshore Units and
Concerning Towing System and Mooring of Supply Ships at
Such Units
The RO shall verify that specific requirements in the following paragraphs are met:

§ 7.10.2 and § 8.1

Construction and strength of towing fastening devices, their supporting structure and the fender systems.

5 Regulations of 4 September 1987 no. 857 Concerning

Anchoring/Positioning Systems on Mobile Offshore Units
The RO shall verify that specific requirements in the following paragraphs are met:

§ 6.4
Strength, function, and workmanship of fairleads, in accordance with the RO’s Rules with respect to
levels of design, tension, capacity and the like, as specified in the NMD regulations.

§ 6.5.6
Strength, function, and workmanship of the components in the systems for thrusters-assisted and dynamic
positioning, in accordance with the RO’s Rules with respect to levels of design, tension, capacity and
the like, as specified in the NMD regulations.

38 ABS GUIDE FOR MOBILE OFFSHORE UNITS OPERATING ON NORWEGIAN CONTINENTAL SHELF, N-NOTATION . 2007
Appendix 2 Extract – Applicable NMD Technical Delegated Items A2

7 Regulations of 20 December 1991 no. 878 Concerning

Stability, Watertight Subdivision and Watertight/
Weathertight Closing Means on Mobile Offshore Units
The RO shall verify that specific requirements in the following paragraphs are met:

§ 30
Strength of watertight bulkheads.

§ 39
Strength, function, and workmanship of hydraulic system for watertight closing means, in accordance
with the RO’s Rules with respect to levels of pressure, capacity, load and the like, as specified in the
NMD regulations.

9 Regulations of 20 December 1991 no. 879 Concerning

Ballast Systems on Mobile Offshore Units
The RO shall verify that specific requirements in the following paragraph are met:

§9
Strength, function and workmanship of the components in accordance with the RO’s Rules with
respect to levels of pressure, capacity, load and the like, as specified in the NMD regulations.

11 Regulations of 10 February 1994 no. 123 for Mobile

Offshore Units with Production Plants and Equipment
The RO shall verify that specific requirements in the following paragraphs are met:

§ 12
Strength of hull structure.

§ 13.2, 13.3 and 13.4

Strength, function, and workmanship of the components of machinery and piping system to be in
accordance with the RO’s Rules with respect to levels of pressure, capacity, load and the like, as
specified by the NMD regulations.

§ 15
Turret systems and its bearings.

§ 17.2
Capability and strength to withstand a collision as specified.

§ 35.3
Capabilities of the loading and mooring systems.

ABS GUIDE FOR MOBILE OFFSHORE UNITS OPERATING ON NORWEGIAN CONTINENTAL SHELF, N-NOTATION . 2007 39
Appendix 2 Extract – Applicable NMD Technical Delegated Items A2

13 Regulations of 22 December 1993 no. 1240 Concerning

Helicopter Decks on Mobile Offshore Units
The RO shall verify that specific requirements in the following paragraphs are met:

§ 8 and § 11
Material quality and strength of helicopter deck.

40 ABS GUIDE FOR MOBILE OFFSHORE UNITS OPERATING ON NORWEGIAN CONTINENTAL SHELF, N-NOTATION . 2007