NSGuide e Feb14

Guide for Mobile Offshore Units Operating on the Norwegian Continental Shelf, N-Notation
GUIDE FOR
MOBILE OFFSHORE UNITS OPERATING ON THE

NORWEGIAN CONTINENTAL SHELF, N-NOTATION
NOVEMBER 2013 (Updated February 2014 see next page)
American Bureau of Shipping

Incorporated by Act of Legislature of
the State of New York 1862
Copyright 2013
ABS Plaza
16855 Northchase Drive
Houston, TX 77060 USA
Updates
February 2014 consolidation includes:
November 2013 version plus Corrigenda/Editorials
Foreword
Foreword (1 November 2013)

This Guide documents the classification related technical requirements for compliance with the verification
obligations associated with the operation of mobile offshore units on the Norwegian Continental Shelf (NCS).
It also provides information related to an application for an Acknowledgement of Compliance (AoC) which
is mandatory for units intended 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 Authority (NMA) and thereby authorized to perform on its 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
NMA references in this Guide do not imply full compliance with Norwegian Flag regulatory requirements.
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
Hydrocarbon Production and Process Facilities
Drilling Systems
Accommodation Units
Well Intervention Units
Helicopter Decks
Cranes and Lifting Appliances
The Guide contains the following three Chapters:
Conditions of Classification
Verification Methodology
N-Notations
This Guide becomes effective on the first day of the month of publication.
Users are advised to check periodically on the ABS website www.eagle.org to verify that this version of
this Guide is the most current.
We welcome your feedback. Comments or suggestions can be sent electronically by email to rsd@eagle.org.
0H
ABS GUIDE FOR MOBILE OFFSHORE UNITS OPERATING ON THE NORWEGIAN CONTINENTAL SHELF, N-NOTATION . 2013
iii
Table of Contents
GUIDE FOR
MOBILE OFFSHORE UNITS OPERATING ON THE

NORWEGIAN CONTINENTAL SHELF, N-NOTATION
CONTENTS
CHAPTER 1
Conditions of Classification .................................................................. 1

Section 1
Scope and Conditions of Classification .................................2
CHAPTER 2
Verification Methodology ....................................................................... 7

Section 1
Basis and Procedures ............................................................8
CHAPTER 3
N-Notations ........................................................................................... 12
Section 1
Mobile Offshore Drilling Units ..............................................15
Section 2
Mobile Offshore Production Units ........................................20
Section 3
Drilling Systems ...................................................................27
Section 4
Accommodation Units ..........................................................30
Section 5
Well Intervention Units .........................................................35
Section 6
Helidecks..............................................................................40
Section 7
Cranes and Lifting Appliances .............................................42
APPENDIX 1 Additional PSA Requirements ............................................................. 44

APPENDIX 2 Extract Applicable NMA Technical Delegated Items ...................... 48
APPENDIX 3 Existing Units, N-Notation Compliance .............................................. 52
iv
Chapter 1: Conditions of Classification
CHAPTER
CONTENTS
SECTION 1
Scope and Conditions of Classification ............................................... 2

1
Classification ....................................................................................... 2
3
Class Notation ..................................................................................... 2
3.1
ABS N-Notation ............................................................................... 2
3.3
Systems Not Built Under Survey ..................................................... 2
Rules for Classification ....................................................................... 3

5.1
Application ....................................................................................... 3
5.3
Scope .............................................................................................. 3
5.5
Effective Date of Change of Requirement ....................................... 3
Norwegian Regulations and Other Standards .................................... 4
Submission of Plans ........................................................................... 4
11
9.1
Hull Plans ........................................................................................ 4
9.3
Machinery Plans .............................................................................. 4
9.5
System Plans .................................................................................. 4
Abbreviations and Definitions ............................................................. 4

11.1
Abbreviations................................................................................... 4
11.3
Definitions........................................................................................ 5
Section 1: Scope and Conditions of Classification
CHAPTER
SECTION
Scope and Conditions of Classification
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.
Class Notation
3.1
ABS N-Notation (1 February 2012)

Classification requirements given in this Guide are supplementary to the latest edition of the ABS Rules
and Guides referenced in 1-1/5.1.
For the unit to receive the (N) notation, the design is to be verified as being in accordance with the applicable
ABS Rules and/or Guides and the additional requirements outlined in this Guide. Additionally, mobile offshore
units awarded the N-notation are to maintain compliance with the applicable standards contained in the latest
edition of the PSA Regulations, their associated guidelines and the standards referenced in the AoC Handbook.
The design verification undertaken by ABS will determine the units compliance with the technical
requirements contained in the relevant Rules, standards and regulations as applicable.
The Class requirements contained herein are to apply to all systems covered by the N-Notation. Additionally,
2-1/Table 3 and Appendix 1 must be applied. Unless the Owner requests additional compliance, drilling or
production facilities will be subject to NORSOK standards. However, in order to verify that safety of the
unit is not impaired, ABS is to review the effect of these systems on the surrounding structures, equipment
and hazardous area designation. It is recommended that the drilling or 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 ABS Surveyors to the applicable requirements of this Guide, where approved by the ABS Classification
Committee for service for the specified design environmental conditions, may be classed and distinguished
in the ABS Record by the symbols A1, followed by the appropriate notation and the (N) notation, for
example, A1 Column-Stabilized Drilling Unit (N). The N-Notations for mobile offshore units and
systems are referenced in subsequent Chapters of this Guide.
3.3
Systems Not Built Under Survey

Mobile offshore units which have not been built under survey to ABS, 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 signifying survey during construction will be omitted.
Chapter
Section
1
1
Rules for Classification
5.1
Application (1 November 2013)

This Guide is intended for use in conjunction with the ABS:
Rules for Building and Classing Mobile Offshore Drilling Units (MODU Rules),
Rules for Building and Classing Floating Production Installations (FPI Rules),
Rules for Building and Classing Facilities on Offshore Installations (Facilities Rules),
Rules for Building and Classing Offshore Support Vessels (OSV Rules)
Guide for the Classification of Drilling Systems (CDS Guide),
Guide for Certification of Lifting Appliances,
Guide for Building and Classing Mobile Offshore Units
Guide for the Class Notation Helicopter Decks and Facilities (HELIDK and HELIDK(SRF)) or
Other applicable ABS Rules and Guides.
1-1
The application of this Guide is, in general, based on the contract date for construction between the builder
and the prospective Owner. For existing Units, Appendix 3 should be applied.
5.3
Scope (1 November 2013)

This Guide covers the safety aspects of the mobile offshore unit operating on NCS, and provides assistance
to the Owner for AoC application or for a Request for Consent to Operate for the following types of mobile
offshore units:
Accommodation Units
Drilling Units
Production Storage/Offloading Units (FPSO and FPDSO) Units
Storage Offloading Units (for Consent to Operate)
and the following types of industrial systems, facilities or equipment:
Drilling Systems
Production Facilities
Helidecks
Note:
The AoC scheme is mandatory for all types of mobile units except for the floating storage offloading units, which
may be subject to a Request for Consent to Operate.
Other types of mobile offshore units not included in the above categories are to 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
ABS. 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, ABS may bring into force the Guide or individual
changes before that date, if necessary or appropriate.
Chapter
Section
1
1
5.5.2
1-1
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.
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.
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 (1 November 2013)

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 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, manufacturers 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 manufacturers 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.
11
Abbreviations and Definitions
11.1
Abbreviations (1 November 2013)

Abbreviations used in this Guide are as follows:
ABS
AoC
Acknowledgement of Compliance
EEA
European Economic Area
Chapter
Section
11.3
1
1
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
NMA
Norwegian Maritime Authority
NPD
Norwegian Petroleum Directorate
NSA
Norwegian Shipowners Association
NOGA
Norwegian Oil and Gas Association
PSA
Petroleum Safety Authority
SFT
Norwegian Pollution Control Authority
SoC
Statement of Compliance
1-1
Definitions (1 November 2013)

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
applicants 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 Communaute Europenne 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.
MOU Classification Society (NMA Construction Regulation) An MOU Classification Society (NMA
Construction Regulation) is a recognized classification society with which there is an additional agreement
with the NMA on ABS 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.
Chapter
Section
1
1
1-1
Recognized Classification Society [NMA Construction Regulation (Red Book Section VI-3)] A Recognized
Classification Society [NMA 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.
Chapter 2: Verification Methodology
CHAPTER
CONTENTS
SECTION 1
Basis and Procedures............................................................................ 8

1
General ............................................................................................... 8
1.1
Acknowledgement of Compliance (AoC) ......................................... 8
1.3
Technical Norms and Standards ..................................................... 8
Regulatory Basis ............................................................................... 10
Regulatory Considerations................................................................ 11
Verification Basis .............................................................................. 11
Verification Procedures ..................................................................... 11
11
Classification Principles and Procedures.......................................... 11
TABLE 1
ABS Applicable Rules/Guides................................................... 9
TABLE 2
Regulations/Standards other than Class .................................. 9
TABLE 3
Regulations and Guidelines .................................................... 10
Section 1: Basis and Procedures
CHAPTER
SECTION
Basis and Procedures
General
1.1
Acknowledgement of Compliance (AoC) (1 November 2013)

An AoC is a decision made by the Petroleum Safety Authority (PSA) that the technical condition of a
MOU and the applicants 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 NMA.
Details of the AoC scheme are given in Handbook for Application for Acknowledgement of Compliance
(AoC) issued by the Norwegian Oil and Gas Association. 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.
Chapter
Section
2
1
2-1
TABLE 1
ABS Applicable Rules/Guides (1 November 2013)
ABS Rules/Guides
Rules for Building and Classing Mobile Offshore Drilling Units
Rules for Building and Classing Floating Production Installations
Rules for Materials and Welding (Part 2)
Guide for the Classification of Drilling Systems
Rules for Building and Classing Facilities on Offshore Installations
Guide for Certification of Lifting Appliances
Rules for Building and Classing Offshore Support Vessels
Guide for Building and Classing Mobile Offshore Units
Guide for the Class Notation Helicopter Decks and Facilities (HELIDK and HELIDK(SRF))
TABLE 2
Regulations/Standards other than Class (1 November 2013)
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
NMA
Norwegian Maritime Authoritys Regulations for Mobile Offshore Units (NMA Red Book)
NMA No. 123
Regulations for Mobile Offshore Units with production plants and equipment
NMA No. 227
Regulations concerning precautionary measures against fire and explosion on Mobile Offshore Units
NMA No. 853
Regulations concerning evacuation and lifesaving appliances on Mobile Offshore Units
NMA No. 865
Regulations concerning the construction of Mobile Offshore Units
NMA No. 09
Regulations concerning anchoring/positioning systems on Mobile Offshore Units
NMA No. 878
Regulations concerning stability, watertight subdivision and watertight/weathertight closing means

on Mobile Offshore Units
NMA No. 879
Regulations concerning ballast systems on Mobile Offshore Units
NMA No. 1200
Regulations concerning the installations and use of radio equipment on Mobile Offshore Units
NMA No. 1239
Regulations concerning risk analyses for Mobile Offshore Units
NMA No. 72
Regulations concerning helicopter decks on Mobile Offshore Units
NMA No. 2318
Regulations concerning the construction and equipment of living quarters on Mobile Offshore Units
NMA Operation 858
Regulations concerning operation of Mobile Offshore Units
NMA No. 859
Regulations concerning protective, environmental and safety measures on Mobile Offshore Units
NMA No. 854
Regulations concerning deck cranes, etc., on Mobile Offshore Units
NMA No. 860
Regulations concerning potable water systems potable water supply on Mobile Offshore Units
NMA No. 1331
Regulations concerning the prevention of pollution from the maritime operations of Mobile
Offshore Units
Norwegian Ministry of
Local Government and
Labour
Regulations relating to asbestos
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

Appendix C.1
Electrical Systems General Parts
Chapter
Section
2
1
2-1
TABLE 2 (continued)
Regulations/Standards other than Class (1 February 2012)
Reference
Title
IEC61892
Mobile and Fixed Offshore Units Electrical Installations
IEC60092
Electrical Installations on Ships
EN 13852-1
Cranes Offshore Cranes Part 1: General-purpose offshore cranes
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
AoC Handbook
Handbook for Application for Acknowledgement of Compliance (AoC)

http://www.norskoljeoggass.no/en/Publica/Guidelines/Drilling/065-Handbook-for-application-forAcknowledgement-of-Compliance-AoC-/
IMO MSC Circular 645
Guidelines for vessels with dynamic positioning systems
Regulatory Basis (1 November 2013)

Petroleum Safety Authority (PSA) may issue the Acknowledgement of Compliance (AoC) when the unit is
complete and when the technical conditions and the applicants 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: http://www.ptil.no/regulations/category216.html
TABLE 3
Regulations and Guidelines (1 February 2012)
Formal Regulations Title
General Title
Regulations Relating to Health, Safety and the Environment in the Petroleum Activities
and at Certain Onshore Facilities
The Framework Regulations
Guidelines Regarding the Framework Regulations
The Framework guidelines
Regulations Relating to Management and the Duty to Provide Information in the

Petroleum Activities and at Certain Onshore Facilities
The Management Regulations
Guidelines Regarding the Management Regulations
The Management guidelines
Regulations Relating to Technical and Operational Matters at Onshore Facilities in the

Petroleum Activities, etc.
The Technical and Operational

Regulations
Guidelines Regarding the Technical and Operational Regulations
The Technical and Operational

guidelines
Regulations Relating to Design and Outfitting of Facilities etc., in the Petroleum Activities
The Facilities Regulations
Guidelines Regarding the Facilities Regulations
The Facilities guidelines
Regulations Relating to Conducting Petroleum Activities
The Activities Regulations
Guidelines Regarding the Activities Regulations
The Activities guidelines
10
Chapter
Section
2
1
2-1
Regulatory Considerations (1 November 2013)

According to Chapter 1, Section 3 of the Framework Regulations, relevant technical requirements contained
in the Rules and Regulations, etc., which have been issued by the Norwegian Maritime Authority together
with supplementary classification Rules and State Flag regulations, may be used as a basis for documentation of
compliance. Refer to Enclosure C of the Handbook for Application for Acknowledgement of Compliance
(AoC). This handbook is available at:
http://www.norskoljeoggass.no/en/Publica/Guidelines/Drilling/065-Handbook-for-application-forAcknowledgement-of-Compliance-AoC-/
Verification Basis (1 November 2013)

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 NMA Regulations for Mobile Offshore Units (NMA 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.
NMA Regulations are available at: http://www.sjofartsdir.no/en/vessels/vessel-types/mobile-offshore-units/
Verification Procedures (1 November 2013)

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:
11
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 Authority Regulations
Verification reports or Statement of Compliance (SoC) issued by consultants/technical specialists for

the Owner/Operator.
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
11
Chapter 3: N-Notations
CHAPTER
N-Notations
CONTENTS
SECTION 1
SECTION 2
12
Mobile Offshore Drilling Units ............................................................. 15

1
Introduction ....................................................................................... 15
3
ABS N-Notation ................................................................................. 15
5
Design Verification ............................................................................ 15
5.1
Classification ................................................................................. 15
5.3
PSA Requirements ........................................................................ 18
Certification of Materials and Equipment .......................................... 18
Surveys During Construction ............................................................ 19
11
Surveys After Construction ............................................................... 19
13
Procedures for Classification ............................................................ 19
15
Limitations ......................................................................................... 19
TABLE 1
MODU Verification ..................................................................16
TABLE 2
Items outside the Scope of the N-Notation ............................. 18
TABLE 3
Emergency Shutdown ............................................................. 18
Mobile Offshore Production Units ...................................................... 20

1
Introduction ....................................................................................... 20
3
ABS N-Notation ................................................................................. 20
5
5.1
Classification Requirements .......................................................... 21
5.3
PSA Requirements ........................................................................ 24
5.5
Production Facilities....................................................................... 24
11
13
15
Limitations ......................................................................................... 26
TABLE 1
MOPU Verification...................................................................21
TABLE 2
TABLE 3
Emergency Shutdown ............................................................. 24
TABLE 4
Production Systems ................................................................ 24
SECTION 3
Drilling Systems ................................................................................... 27

1
Introduction ....................................................................................... 27
3
ABS N-Notation ................................................................................. 27
5
5.1
Drilling Systems ................................................................................ 27
11
13
15
17
Limitations ......................................................................................... 29
TABLE 1
SECTION 4
Drilling Systems ...................................................................... 28
Accommodation Units ......................................................................... 30

1
Introduction ....................................................................................... 30
3
ABS N-Notation ................................................................................. 30
5
5.1
SECTION 5
Classification Requirements .......................................................... 27
Classification ................................................................................. 30
7.
11
13
15
Limitations ......................................................................................... 34
TABLE 1
Accommodation Verification ................................................... 31
TABLE 2
Well Intervention Units ........................................................................ 35

1
Introduction ....................................................................................... 35
3
ABS N-Notation ................................................................................. 35
5
5.1
Classification ................................................................................. 35
11
13
15
Limitations ......................................................................................... 39
TABLE 1
Well Intervention Unit Verification ........................................... 36
TABLE 2
TABLE 3
Well Intervention Unit (WI)(N) ................................................. 38
13
SECTION 6
Helicopter Decks .................................................................................. 40

1
Introduction ....................................................................................... 40
3
ABS N-Notation ................................................................................. 40
5
5.1
11
13
TABLE 1
SECTION 7
Helideck Verification................................................................ 41
Cranes and Lifting Appliances ............................................................ 42

1
Introduction ....................................................................................... 42
3
ABS N-Notation ................................................................................. 42
5
5.1
Classification ................................................................................. 42
11
13
TABLE 1
14
Classification ................................................................................. 40
Deck Cranes Verification ........................................................ 43
Section 1: Mobile Offshore Drilling Units
CHAPTER
N-Notations
SECTION
Mobile Offshore Drilling Units
Introduction (1 November 2013)

The verification described herein may be applied to Mobile Offshore Drilling Units (MODUs), provided
they satisfy the following requirements:
Classification requirements
NMA Regulations
PSA requirements
For Drilling System Requirements, see Section 3
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 NMA.
ABS N-Notation (1 November 2013)

Classification requirements given in this Guide are supplementary to the latest edition of ABS Rules. In order
to obtain the (N) notation, 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 NMA
and PSA Regulations, the associated guidelines and referenced standards.
Generally, class requirements are to be applied to all systems for which the (N) notation has been requested.
N-Notations for types of MODUs and systems are referenced below.
Type of MODU
Notation
MODU (Self Elevating)
A1 Self Elevating Drilling Unit (N)
MODU (Column Stabilized)
A1 Column-Stabilized Drilling Unit (N)
MODU (Ship)
A1 Drillship (N)
MODU (Barge)
A1 Barge Drilling Unit (N)
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.
Design Verification (1 November 2013)
5.1
Classification
The following tables are based on Enclosure D of the 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 NMAs Regulations, the delegated items from
the NMAs Regulations given in Appendix 2 of this Guide.
Upon completion of the technical verification, noted comments are to be satisfactorily addressed by the
applicant.
15
Chapter
Section
3
1
N-Notations
3-1
TABLE 1
MODU Verification (1 November 2013)
NSFI
Number
Regulations and Standards
Comments
Stability, Watertight and

Weathertight Integrity
NMA Stability Regulations Sec 8 to 51
Not applicable for SEDU
11
Arrangement
NMA Construction Regulations

NMA Living Quarters Regulations
NMA Fire Regulations
NMA Operation Regulations Sec 13
AoC Handbook Enclosure A3
AoC Handbook Enclosure A3:

NPD Letter of 26-06-2003
11
Escape ways

NMA Living Quarter Regulations

11
Hazardous Area
Refers to Regulations concerning

maritime electrical installations
NMA Construction Regulations Sec 6,7 and 10
WSD Method Acceptable as per

Sec 3 HES
Implications of the NMA Stability
Regulations Sec 22 and 30 to be
assessed.
16
NSFI Item
Hull and Structure
20
27
28
Hull materials, general hull

work
Material protection external
Material protection internal
408
Dynamic positioning plant
NMA Anchoring Regulations

41
Navigation and searching

equipment
421
Radio plant
NMA Radio Equipment Regulations
422
Lifeboat radio transmitters,

emergency radio and direction
finder
NMA Lifesaving Appliances Regulations
425
Calling systems, command

telephone, telephone plants,
walkie-talkies, etc.

NMA Deck Cranes Regulations
NMA Helicopter decks Regulations
427
Light and signal equipment

NMA Helicopter Decks Regulations
43
Anchoring, Mooring and

Towing equipment
488
Jacking system, spud tank

jetting system for Jack-ups
501
Lifeboats with equipment
Facilities Regulations Sec 44 and 41
502
Liferafts with Equipment
503
Lifesaving, safety and

emergency equipment
505
Loose firefighting apparatuses

and equipment, firemens suit
PSA requires that ALL steel used

for structural applications shall
have documented impact toughness
properties.
Specific requirement for alarms

systems, see NSFI 811
For New Construction and Major

Modification projects, free-fall
lifeboats are required.
Chapter
Section
3
1
N-Notations
3-1
TABLE 1 (continued)
MODU Verification (1 November 2013)
NSFI
Number
NSFI Item
51
Insulation, panels, bulkheads,

doors, side scuttles, windows,
skylight

52
Internal deck covering,

ladders, steps, railings etc.

53
External deck covering, steps,

ladders, gangways, etc.
Comments
Only applicable for

Accommodation units
Owner may apply ABS Class Rules
as a contribution towards an AoC
564
Walkway between units
57
Ventilation, air conditioning

and heating system
66
Other aggregates and

generators for main and
emergency power production
74
Exhaust systems and air

intakes
76
Distilled and made-up water

systems
NMA Potable water
Excludes requirements for water

quality
79
Automation systems for

machinery
NMA Ballast Regulations

NMA Stability Regulations
NMA Risk Analyses Sec 22 is

excluded from the N-Notation
80
Ballast and bilge systems,

gutter pipes outside
accommodation

NMA Pollution Regulations
Fire Detection, Fire and

Lifeboat alarm systems
Except specific requirements to

sound and light alarms
810, 811
812
Emergency shutdown system
Well testing facilities shall be

treated as process systems (See
table 3)
Fire/wash down systems,

emergency fire pumps, general
service pumps, fire fighting
systems for external fires, fire
fighting systems with CO2 and
Halon gases

NMA Helicopter Deck Regulations
Air and sounding systems

from tank to deck
85
Electrical systems general
NMA Construction Regulations (and reference

to 89/336/EEC and 92/31/EEC)
Regulations concerning maritime electrical
installations
86
Electrical power supply

installations
87
Electrical distribution common

systems

installations
Refer to SFI 408 for dynamically

positioned Units
88
Electrical cable installation

installations

positioned Units
89
Electrical consumers (lighting

etc.)

installations
813 - 819
82
17
Chapter
Section
3
1
N-Notations
3-1
TABLE 2
Items outside the Scope of the N-Notation (1 November 2013)
NSFI
Number
11
11
NSFI Item
Comments
Winterization
See also, N-Notation Limitations
Working Environment
Machine tools, cutting and

welding equipment
NMA Welding equipment
448
Name plates(marking) on
machinery, equipment, pipes,
cables
NMA Protective, Environmental Regulations
45
Lifting and transport

equipment for machinery
components
504
Medical and dental equipment,

medicines and first aid
equipment
54
Furniture, inventory and

entertainment equipment
NMA Living quarters
55
Galley & pantry equipment,

arrangement for provisions,
ironing/drying equipment
NMA Living quarters
561
Personnel lifts, escalators

Lifts: NMA Construction Sec 23
For lifting equipment other than

drill floor
563
Deck cranes
NMA Deck Cranes

NORSOK S-002 Working Environment (for
crane cabin)
Certification of Deck Cranes can be

requested as part of the ABS CRC
Notation but excludes Working
Environment aspects.
566
Helicopter Platform with

equipment
Helideck can be classed under the

Helideck N-Notations
441-447
5.3
PSA Requirements
Emergency shutdown indicated in 3-1/Table 3 is as presented in Enclosure D of the Handbook for Application
for Acknowledgement of Compliance (AoC).
TABLE 3
Emergency Shutdown (1 March 2009)
NSFI Number
812
NSFI Item
Emergency Shut Down
FR Sec. 32 (Well Testing Facilities as
process for Drilling Unit)

ISO 13702 Ch.6 and 7 and App B.2 and B.3
FR Sec. 33 (Well Testing)
ISO 10418 or API 14C
ISO 13702 Ch.6 and App B.2

S-001 Ch.6.9 and App E
Certification of Materials and Equipment

In addition to the ABS classification surveys per applicable ABS Rules and Guides, surveys carried out at
the suppliers facility are also to meet the design verification requirements of Chapter 3, Section 1 of this
Guide.
18
Chapter
Section
3
1
N-Notations
3-1
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.
11
Surveys After Construction (1 February 2012)

Surveys after construction over the life of the unit 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. This is to demonstrate that the applicant is fully aware of, and has control
over the effect of changes to references or standards that are contained in, or referenced by this Guide.
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 November 2013)

The following items subject to PSA requirements for the AoC application are outside of the scope for
N-Notation:
Emergency preparedness
Owners 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 CRC (N))
Helideck (Helideck (N) Notation can be requested)
Welding Central
Water quality
Operational requirements
Drilling plant (N-Notation is optional)
Winterization and Arctic operational issues
19
Section 2: Mobile Offshore Production Units
CHAPTER
N-Notations
SECTION
Mobile Offshore Production Units
Introduction (1 November 2013)

The verification described herein may be applied to Mobile Offshore Production Units (MOPUs), provided
they satisfy the following requirements:
NMA Regulations
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 NMA Regulations.
Chapter 1, 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 4.
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.
ABS N-Notation (1 November 2013)

to obtain the (N) notation, a design verification to the ABS Rules is to be performed. Additionally, mobile
offshore units are to comply with the latest edition of the NMA and PSA Regulations, the associated guidelines
and referenced standards.
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.
N-Notations for types of MOPUs and systems are referenced below.
20
Type of MOPU
Notation
FPS
A1 Floating Production (and Offloading) System (N)
FPSO***
A1 Floating Production, Storage and Offloading System (N)
FOI*
A1 Floating Offshore Installations (N)
FSO**
A1 Floating Storage and Offloading System (N)
Chapter
Section
3
2
N-Notations
3-2
Notes:
*
FOI Notation means that although the offshore unit is fitted with production facilities, the Owner did not desire classification
of the production facilities.
** The AoC scheme is mandatory for all types of mobile units except floating storage offloading units, which may be
subject to a Request for Consent to Operate.
*** "Self-operated" FPSOs (i.e., operated by the oil company) are also not subject to AoC, but are operated under a Consent
instead. For FPSOs operated by a separate entity from the oil company, the AoC is required.
Other types of mobile offshore units not included in the above categories may be treated on an individual
basis and assigned an appropriate classification notation similar to the notations above.
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 Rules in association with the process of
verification for the N-Notation.
Design Verification (1 November 2013)
5.1
Classification Requirements
applicant.
TABLE 1
MOPU Verification (1 November 2013)
NSFI
Number
NSFI Item
Comments

Arrangement


11
Escape ways


11
Hazardous Area


Sec 3 HES
assessed.
11
Hull and Structure
20

work
27
28

properties.
21
Chapter
Section
3
2
N-Notations
3-2
TABLE 1 (continued)
NSFI
Number
22
NSFI Item
26
Turret
NMA Production Sec 15, 1-4
408

41

equipment
421
Radio plant
422

finder
425


427

43

Towing equipment
46
VOC/blanket gas system
NMA Production Regulations
488

501
502
503

emergency equipment
505

51

skylight

52


53

Comments


Only applicable for

Accommodation units
564
57

and heating system
66


NMA Production Regulations
74

intakes
76

systems
NMA Potable water

quality
Chapter
Section
3
2
N-Notations
3-2
TABLE 1 (continued)
NSFI
Number
NSFI Item
Comments
79

machinery


80

accommodation



810, 811
812

table 3)

Halon gases


from tank to deck
85

to 89/336/EEC and 92/31/EEC)
installations
86

installations
87

systems

installations

positioned Units
88

installations

positioned Units
89

etc.)

installations
813 - 819
82
TABLE 2
NSFI
Number
NSFI Item
Comments
11
Winterization
11
Working Environment

welding equipment
448
cables
45

components
504

equipment
441-447
23
Chapter
Section
3
2
N-Notations
3-2
TABLE 2 (continued)
NSFI
Number
NSFI Item
Comments
54

NMA Living quarters
55

NMA Living quarters
561


drill floor
563
Deck cranes
NMA Deck Cranes

crane cabin)

566

equipment

5.3
PSA Requirements
Emergency shutdown indicated in 3-1/Table 3 is as presented in Enclosure D of the Handbook for Application
for Acknowledgement of Compliance (AoC).
TABLE 3
Emergency Shutdown (1 March 2009)
NSFI Number
812
5.5
NSFI Item
Emergency Shut Down

FR Sec. 32 (Well Testing Facilities as
process for Drilling Unit)
ISO 13702 Ch.6 and 7 and App B.2 and B.3
ISO 10418 or API 14C
ISO 13702 Ch.6 and App B.2

S-001 Ch.6.9 and App E
Production Facilities
PSA design verification requirements for items indicated in 3-2/Table 4 are referenced in Enclosure D of
the Handbook for Application for Acknowledgement of Compliance (AoC).
It is recommended that the production system be classed in accordance with the ABS Facilities Rules to
avoid any difficulties that the interfaces between plant and vessel may create.
TABLE 4
Production Systems (1 November 2013)
NSFI Number
24
NSFI Item
---
Production Plants General
PSA Facilities Regulations Chapter IV-II Including

guidelines
301B
Inlet from risers, manifold,

swivels etc.
NORSOK: S-001, S-002N, L-001, L-002, P-001, P100, R-004, M-001, M-601
ISO: 13702
302B
Separation Equipment
(including water treatment)
As in 301B and R-001, R-100, S-005
Comments
Chapter
Section
3
2
N-Notations
3-2
TABLE 4 (continued)
Production Systems (1 November 2013)
NSFI Number
303B
NSFI Item
Compression Equipment
Comments
As in 301B and R-001, R-100, 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)
NORSOK: I-002, P-001, P-002, S-001, S-002

ISO: 10418
API RP 520 / ISO 4126
API 521 / ISO 23251
NS-EN: 614 and 894
Norwegian Oil and Gas Association Guideline 70
NPD: 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
NORSOK: S-001, L-001, P-001, P-100

ISO: 13702
34B
Load Bearing Structure for

Process Equipment
NMA Production
36B
Offloading Equipment
L-001, L-002
37B
Metering for Oil and Gas

export, Injection,
Combustion of Gas, Flaring
Gas
Facilities Regulations Sec 10, Sec 17

Management Reg Sec 19
Note:
(1 November 2013) The NORSOK standards are available at http://www.standard.no/en/sectors/Petroleum/

Guide.

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 February 2012)

Gap analyses are to be carried out at intervals not exceeding five years, and preferably before completion of the
Special Periodical Survey. This is to demonstrate that the applicant is fully aware of, and has control over
the effect of changes to references or standards that are contained in, or referenced by this Guide.
25
Chapter
Section
13
3
2
N-Notations
3-2

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 November 2013)

The following items subject to PSA requirements for the AoC application are outside the scope of the
N-Notation:
26
Welding central
Water Quality
Operational Requirements
Production Plant (N-Notation optional)
Winterization and Arctic operation issues
Section 3: Drilling Systems
CHAPTER
N-Notations
SECTION
Drilling Systems (1 November 2013)
Introduction
The verification described herein may be applied to Drilling Systems, provided they satisfy the following
requirements:
PSA requirements
In the application for an AoC, the Drilling Systems are to meet the requirements for the N-Notation described in
this Guide. The CDS N-Notation is assigned to Drilling Systems in accordance with the ABS Guide for the
Classification of Drilling Systems and meeting supplementary requirements of PSA.
ABS N-Notation
Classification requirements given in this Section are supplementary to the latest edition of ABS Guide for
the Classification of Drilling Systems. In order to obtain the (N) notation, a design verification to the ABS
Rules is to be performed. Additionally, mobile offshore units are to comply with the latest edition of the NMA
Type of System
Notation
Drilling System
CDS (N)
Design Verification
5.1
Classification Requirements
applicant.
Drilling Systems
At the request of the client, design verification is to be carried out to the ABS Guide for the Classification of
Drilling Systems and the applicable Standards as indicated in the PSA Facilities Regulations with guidelines
for SFI 30A to 39A for items indicated in 3-3/Table 1 and referenced in Enclosure D of the Handbook for
Application for Acknowledgement of Compliance (AoC).
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.
27
Chapter
Section
3
3
N-Notations
Drilling Systems
3-3
TABLE 1
Drilling Systems (1 November 2013)
NSFI
Number
NSFI Item
30A
Derrick with components
NORSOK: D-001and D-002
31A
Drill floor equipment and

systems
NORSOK: D-001, D-002 and D-010
32A
Bulk and mud systems
NORSOK: D-001 and D-002
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
Note:
Comments
Equipment must also comply with

EN-13852-1 but is outside of the
scope of CDS (N). Compliance can
be achieved if CRC (N) is
requested.
The NORSOK standards are available at http://www.standard.no/en/sectors/Petroleum/
In addition to complying with the above, further compliance is required with PSA Facilities Regulations with
Guidelines. Chapter IV-I is available at http://www.ptil.no/pdf-version-printouts/category474.html, and
contains the following 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

Guide.
28
Chapter
Section
11
3
3
N-Notations
Drilling Systems
3-3

construction of the Drilling Systems are also to meet the design verification requirements of Chapter 3,
Section 3 of this Guide.
13
Surveys After Construction

Gap analyses are to be carried out at intervals not exceeding five years, and preferably before completion of the
Special Periodical Survey. This is to demonstrate that the applicant is fully aware of, and has control over
the effect of changes to references or standards that are contained in, or referenced by this Guide.
15

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 Drilling Systems. Class
procedures are to be followed for the issuance of applicable class notations.
17
Limitations
N-Notation:
Welding central
Water Quality
Operational Requirements
Winterization and Arctic operation issues
29
Section 4: Accommodation Units
CHAPTER
N-Notations
SECTION
Accommodation Units (1 November 2013)
Introduction
The verification described herein may be applied to Accommodation Service Units, provided they satisfy
the following requirements:
NMA Regulations
PSA requirements
To assist with the application for an AoC, an Accommodation Unit is to meet the requirements for the NNotation as described in this Guide. N-Notations are assigned to MOUs holding class certificates, being
flagged and meeting supplementary requirements of PSA and NMA Regulations.
ABS N-Notation
N-Notations for types of MODUs and systems are referenced below.
Type of Unit
Notation
Accommodation Unit
Accommodation Service (N)
Design Verification
5.1
Classification
applicant.
30
Chapter
Section
3
4
N-Notations
Accommodation Units
3-4
TABLE 1
Accommodation Verification (1 November 2013)
NSFI
Number
NSFI Item
Comments

11
Arrangement


11
Escape ways


11
Hazardous Area


Sec 3 HES
assessed.
Hull and Structure
20
27
28

work
408

41

equipment
421
Radio plant
422

finder
425


427

43

Towing equipment
488

501
502
503

emergency equipment
505


properties.


31
Chapter
Section
3
4
N-Notations
Accommodation Units
3-4
TABLE 1 (continued)
Accommodation Verification (1 November 2013)
NSFI
Number
NSFI Item
51

skylight

52


53

Comments
Only applicable for

Accommodation units
564
57

and heating system
66

74

intakes
76

systems
NMA Potable water

quality
79

machinery


80

accommodation




table 3)

Halon gases


from tank to deck
85

to 89/336/EEC and 92/31/EEC)
installations
86

installations
87

systems

installations

positioned Units
88

installations

positioned Units
89

etc.)

installations
810, 811
812
813 - 819
82
32
Chapter
Section
3
4
N-Notations
Accommodation Units
3-4
TABLE 2
NSFI
Number
11
11
NSFI Item
Comments
Winterization
Working Environment

welding equipment
448
cables
45

components
504

equipment
54

NMA Living quarters
55

NMA Living quarters
561


drill floor
563
Deck cranes
NMA Deck Cranes

crane cabin)

566

equipment

441-447
7.

Guide.

construction of the MOU are also to meet the design verification requirements of Chapter 3, Section 4 of
this Guide.
11

33
Chapter
Section
13
3
4
N-Notations
Accommodation Units
3-4

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 MOUs. Class procedures are
to be followed for issuance of applicable class notations.
15
Limitations
N-Notation:
34
Welding Central
Water quality
Section 5: Well Intervention Units
CHAPTER
N-Notations
SECTION
Well Intervention Units (1 November 2013)
Introduction
The verification described herein may be applied to Offshore Support Vessels involved in Well Intervention,
provided they satisfy the following requirements:
NMA Regulations
PSA requirements
To assist with the application for an AoC, an Offshore Support Vessel involved in Well Intervention is to
meet the requirements for the N-Notation as described in this Guide. N-Notations are assigned to OSVs holding
class certificates, being flagged and meeting supplementary requirements of PSA and NMA Regulations.
ABS N-Notation
Classification requirements given in this Guide are supplementary to the latest edition of ABS Rules for
Building and Classing Offshore Support Vessels. In order to obtain the (N) notation, a design verification
to ABS Rules and additional requirements given in Appendix 1 is to be performed. Additionally, mobile
offshore units are to comply with the latest edition of the NMA Regulations, PSA Requirements and their
associated guidelines and referenced standards.
N-Notations for types of OSVs and systems are referenced below.
Type of Unit
Notation
OSVs fitted with permanent

well intervention systems
Offshore Support Vessel (WI)(N)
OSVs designed to be
well intervention ready
Offshore Support Vessel (WI-READY)(N)
Other types of notations which do not fall into the above categories will be specially considered based on
additional ABS Rules as applicable depending on vessel configuration or operating environment.
Design Verification
5.1
Classification
applicant.
35
Chapter
Section
3
5
N-Notations
3-5
TABLE 1
Well Intervention Unit Verification (1 November 2013)
NSFI
Number
Comments

11
Arrangement


11
Escape ways


11
Hazardous Area


Sec 3 HES
assessed.
36
NSFI Item
Hull and Structure
20
27
28

work
408

41

equipment
421
Radio plant
422

finder
425


427

43

Towing equipment
488

501
502
503

emergency equipment
505


properties.


Chapter
Section
3
5
N-Notations
3-5
TABLE 1 (continued)
Well Intervention Unit Verification (1 November 2013)
NSFI
Number
NSFI Item
51

skylight

52


53

Comments
Only applicable for

Accommodation units
564
57

and heating system
66

74

intakes
76

systems
NMA Potable water

quality
79

machinery


80

accommodation



810, 811
812

table 3)

Halon gases


from tank to deck
85

to 89/336/EEC and 92/31/EEC)
installations
86

installations
87

systems

installations

positioned Units
88

installations

positioned Units
89

etc.)

installations
813 - 819
82
37
Chapter
Section
3
5
N-Notations
3-5
TABLE 2
NSFI
Number
11
11
NSFI Item
Comments
Winterization
Working Environment

welding equipment
448
cables
45

components
504

equipment
54

NMA Living quarters
55

NMA Living quarters
561


drill floor
563
Deck cranes
NMA Deck Cranes

crane cabin)

566

equipment

441-447
TABLE 3
Well Intervention Unit (WI)(N) (1 November 2013)
NSFI
Number
NSFI Item
30C
Drilling derrick with

components
NORSOK: D-001 and N-001
31C
Work floor equipment and

systems
32C
Bulk and drill fluid systems
33C
Well control equipment and

systems
36C
Material handling equipment

and systems
NORSOK: D-001
38C
Miscellaneous systems and

service
Comments

Guide.
38
Chapter
Section
3
5
N-Notations
3-5

construction of the OSV are also to meet the design verification requirements of Chapter 3, Section 5 of
this Guide.
11

Surveys after construction over the life of the unit are to be carried out at intervals defined in the ABS Rules
and in accordance with applicable ABS Rules and Guides.
13

carried out as an integral part of activities related to the class requirements of OSVs. Class procedures are
to be followed for issuance of applicable class notations.
15
Limitations
N-Notation:
Welding Central
Water quality
39
Section 6: Helicopter Decks
CHAPTER
N-Notations
SECTION
Helicopter Decks (1 November 2013)
Introduction
The verification described herein may be applied to Helicopter Decks, provided they satisfy the following
requirements:
NMA Regulations
PSA requirements
To assist with the application for an AoC, a Units Helideck is to meet the requirements for the N-Notation
as described in this Guide. N-Notations are assigned to Units holding class certificates, being flagged and
meeting supplementary requirements of PSA and NMA.
ABS N-Notation
N-Notations for types of Helidecks are referenced below.
Type of Helicopter Decks
Notation
Helicopter Decks
HELIDK (N)
Helicopter Decks with Storage and Refueling Facilities
HELIDK (SRF) (N)
Design Verification
5.1
Classification
The following table is based on Enclosure D of the Handbook for Application for Acknowledgement of
applicant.
40
Chapter
Section
3
6
N-Notations
Helicopter Decks
3-6
TABLE 1
Helideck Verification (1 November 2013)
NSFI
Number
566
NSFI Item
equipment
Comments

Guide.

construction of the Helideck are also to meet the design verification requirements of Chapter 3, Section 6
of this Guide.
11

13

carried out as an integral part of activities related to the class requirements of Helidecks. Class procedures
are to be followed for issuance of applicable class notations.
41
Section 7: Cranes and Lifting Appliances
CHAPTER
N-Notations
SECTION
Cranes and Lifting Appliances (1 November 2013)
Introduction
The verification described herein may be applied to Cranes and Lifting Appliances, provided they satisfy
the following requirements:
NMA Regulations
PSA requirements
To assist with the application for an AoC, a Units Cranes and Lifting Appliances are to meet the requirements
for the N-Notation as described in this Guide. N-Notations are assigned to Units holding class certificates,
being flagged and meeting supplementary requirements of PSA and NMA.
ABS N-Notation
is to be performed. Additionally, Deck Cranes are to comply with the latest edition of the NMA and PSA
Regulations, the associated guidelines and referenced standards.
N-Notations for types of Cranes and Lifting Appliances are referenced below.
Type of Cranes and Lifting Appliances
Notation
Crane Register Certificate
CRC (N)
Design Verification
5.1
Classification
The following table is based on Enclosure D of the Handbook for Application for Acknowledgement of
applicant.
42
Chapter
Section
3
7
N-Notations
3-7
TABLE 1
Deck Cranes Verification (1 November 2013)
NSFI
Number
563
NSFI Item
Deck cranes

NMA Deck Cranes
crane cabin)
Comments
Deck Cranes must be certified to
EN-13852-1
CRC(N) excludes Working

Guide.

In addition to the ABS classification surveys per applicable ABS Rules and Guides, surveys carried out
during construction of the Deck Cranes are also to meet the design verification requirements of Chapter 3,
Section 7 of this Guide.
11

13

carried out as an integral part of activities related to the class requirements of Cranes and Lifting Appliances.
Class procedures are to be followed for issuance of applicable class notations.
43
Appendix 1: Additional PSA Requirements
APPENDIX
Additional PSA Requirements (1 November 2013)
Additional PSA Requirements Included in N-Notation

For units intending to operate in the Norwegian Continental Shelf, ABS will carry out additional reviews
as required by the PSA for the following:
Item
44
Bilge System
A graphic panel, showing all components of bilge and drainage systems shall be suitably
positioned at the bilge pumping station.
Platform Piping
Pipe tunnels to be fitted with an air pipe not less than 75 mm internal diameter.
Platform Piping
Sounding rods are to be spark proof for liquids having flash point below 60C.
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.
Machinery Piping
Remote stop of hydraulic oil pumps from a central place outside the engine and boiler rooms is
to be provided.
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.
Hydraulic Cylinders
Piston rods with diameter less than 5% of the length between the mountings in the fully extracted
position, buckling calculations shall be documented.
Ventilation
Engine room supply and exhaust fans are to be arranged with redundancy.
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)
b)
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
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
Lubricating oil tanks are to be provided with a low level alarm.

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.
Appendix 1
Additional PSA Requirements

Item
A1
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
SEDU
Additional analysis to demonstrate adequacy of units for installation and retrieval.

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
Units Condition
(1 February 2012)
Strength analysis to verify units adequacy for the damaged condition.
19
Design Load
Condition
(1 February 2012)
Additional analysis for accidental loads and one year return period for the loading
requirements as per Item 17 above.
For Column Stabilized Drilling Units, sufficient structural redundancy is required so that the
units structure is to be able to withstand the loss of a slender bracing member without
causing a collapse of the units 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 heeling of the unit is required
For Jack-Ups, since lattice legs have a high degree of structural redundancy, analysis to
verify structural redundancy is not required.
20
Site Specific
Assessments
(1 February 2012)
Design to account for site specific environmental conditions.

For Jack-Ups, analyses are to be submitted to verify adequacy of foundation (soils).
21
Ship Type
(1 February 2012)
For ship shape units:

1. Adequacy of 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
22
Tandem
offloading area
and equipment
onboard FPSOs
and FSOs
(1 November
2013)
a)
b)
c)
d)
The shape of the stern of FPSOs and FSUs should be rounded or partly rounded to
minimize consequences in case of collision between vessel and shuttle tankers.
The flare tower should be located in the centerline of the vessel, with a necessary
distance from the stern to prevent contact between the flare tower and a worst case
colliding shuttle tanker.
Only equipment to be used for offloading operation should be located at the stern. No
lifeboat(s) shall be located at the stern.
The hawser, hawser winch and fairlead should be located in the centerline of the vessel.
45
Appendix 1

Item

e)
f)
g)
h)
i)
j)
k)
l)
46
A1
The speed of the hawser winch should be adjustable up to 50m/min.

The offloading hose should be stored on a drum, not in a chute. The storage drum shall
be located next to the hawser winch.
Only void space or ballast tank(s) should be inside the stern of the hull. If ballast tanks
are chosen, the water filling volume should be maximum 75% of the total tank volume.
All antennas for position reference systems should be placed in the correct height at the
aft of the flare tower. Signal obstructions should be avoided.
Gutter bar(s) should be located around the offloading area. The height of the gutter
bar(s) shall be sufficient to prevent overboard spillage of oil when the vessel is rolling
and not less than 400m.
Rupture disk(s) including return pipe to cargo tank, should be arranged from the
offloading pipe to prevent damages due to a surge in pressure.
The control station(s) should be a safe working place giving the necessary protection
for the operator from a snatch broken rope or wire. The operator should have free view
to all involved equipment and the shuttle tanker.
Adequate capacity of the nitrogen or inert gas should be available to displace the
offloading hose in a maximum of 15 minutes.
23
Materials
(1 November
2013)
The PSA requires that all steel for structural application shall have documented impact
toughness properties.
This requirement is based on the PSAs interpretation of the Framework Regulation Sec. 23
on general requirements for material and information.
24
FPSOs / FSOs
(surface units of
ship or barge type
hull intended for
oil storage
including columnstabilized units
intended for oil
storage.)
(1 November
2013)
FPSOs / FSOs should have a double hull arrangement as specified in MARPOL, covering
the entire storage tank length including fuel tanks. Reference is given to MARPOL,
Consolidated edition of 2006, Annex I, Reg. 19.3.1 and 19.3.2 MEPC. 139(53), Guidelines
for the application of the revised MARPOL Annex I, Requirements to floating production,
storage and offloading facilities (FPSOs) and floating storage units (FSOs). Provisions
should be made such that the ballast system is not contaminated in case of a leakage
between a ballast tank and an oil storage tank. The distance between oil tight boundaries
and external boundaries(e.g. side shell and bottom shell_ should be larger than two meter, to
facilitate acceptable conditions for inspection and repair and protection against collision.
25
Facilities used
continuously
offshore for more
than five years
(1 November
2013)
The action coefficient for slender members should be at least 1.3
26
Accidental limit
state
(1 November
2013)
A control should be made in the accidental limit state with environmental and accidental
actions with an annual probability to exceedence of 10-4
27
Possible causes of
damage
(1 November
2013)
Additional possible causes of damage to those indicated in the Norwegian Maritime

Directorates Stability Regulations and Classification Rules shall be taken into account. An
analysis of possible damage cases shall be made. The likelihood and consequences shall be
reduced.
This requirement is based on the PSAs interpretation of the Management Regulation Sec.
17 on risk analyses and emergency preparedness assessments.
28
Openings below
water line
(1 November
2013)
Under the water line, floating facilities should have as few openings to the sea as possible.
29
Fire water pumps

(1 November
2013)
Fire water pumps with maximum flow of fire water should not lead to weight or stability
problems.
Appendix 1

Item
A1
30
Collision loading
(1 November
2013)
a)
b)
31
Fatigue life
(1 November
2013)
All structures should have a minimum fatigue life of 20 years
32
Facilities ages 19
years or more
since first
certificate issue
(1 November
2013)
These facilities are required to document the following:

a) Fatigue life shall be calculated according to current Rules and Regulations and
corrected for changes in assumed weights and weight distribution caused by
modifications or changes in assumed usage, such as use of derrick, ballasting and
loading and unloading operations. The fatigue calculations should take into account
the actual environmental exposure the unit has been exposed to, in the form of relevant
environmental scatter diagrams for respective locations or actual environmental
measurements if available.
b) Redundancy in the event of substantial damage to hull, braces or jacking system, and
substantial internal damage to hull shall be calculated: Check for overload in
connection with environmental loads with return period of one year and Fatigue life.
c) An updated verification of physical match between the facility and as-built
documentation shall be done so that later modifications or changed usage are taken into
account in analyses and calculations. Additionally, this is so that local weld-ons or
scallops do not change their integrity.
All facilities should resist collision energies of at least 35 MJ.

FPSOs and FSOs using tandem loading shall resist collision energies of at least 60 MJ
in the stern.
Additional PSA Requirements Excluded from the N-Notation

Item
1
Facilities ages 19
years or more
since first
certificate issue
(1 November
2013)
Additional PSA Requirements Excluded from the N-Notation

a)
b)
c)
d)
e)
f)
The owner shall evaluate the need for further requirements with respect to inspection
and maintenance as a result of extended life, with regards to:
i) Watertight and weatherproof closing appliances,
ii) Ballasting and stability, including seawater intake
iii) Jacking equipment, including machinery, gears and brakes.
iv) Safety systems which depend on emergency power or hydraulics
v) Load-bearing structures with regards to corrosion, erosion and thickness
measurement
Critical areas in addition to those required by ABS
The owner shall verify that the manufacturers specifications for maintenance of
marine systems are complied with.
Review information about past performance and relevant equipment usage, including
results from similar facilities and a systematic review of the relevancy of major
accidents worldwide over the last decade.
Make plans for replacement and repairs of load bearing structures and marine
systems.
Identify possible chain of events, review of the robustness, availability and reliability
of these barriers. Identification of special criteria in case several barriers are impaired
at the same time. Furthermore, consider preventative measures that are possible to
implement using the ALARP principles.
Assess the assumed future service life in terms of safe operation of the facility.
Identify circumstances that will limit the service life and specify criteria for safe
operation to the extent it is possible to do so. E.g. permissible lengths of cracks,
maximum permissible corrosion or remaining thickness, remaining anodes,
degradation of protective coatings.
47
Appendix 2: Extract Applicable NMA Technical Delegated Items
APPENDIX
Extract Applicable NMA Technical Delegated

Items (1 March 2009)
CONTENTS
1
48
With Respect to the NMAs Regulations for Mobile Offshore Units

(Red Book) ........................................................................................ 49
1.1
Regulations of 4 September 1987 no. 856 Concerning

Construction of Mobile Offshore Units ........................................... 49
1.3
Regulations of 31 January 1984 no. 227 Concerning

Precautionary Measure Against Fire and Explosion
on Mobile Offshore Units ............................................................... 50
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........................................................................... 50
Regulations of 10 July 2009 no. 998 Concerning Anchoring/

Positioning Systems on Mobile Offshore Units .................................50
Regulations of 20 December 1991 no. 878 Concerning Stability,

Watertight Subdivision and Watertight/ Weathertight Closing
Means on Mobile Offshore Units ...................................................... 50
Regulations of 20 December 1991 no. 879 Concerning Ballast

Systems on Mobile Offshore Units ................................................... 50
11
Regulations of 10 February 1994 no. 123 for Mobile Offshore

Units with Production Plants and Equipment ....................................51
13
Regulations of 15 January 2008 no. 72 Concerning Helicopter

Decks on Mobile Offshore Units Note 3............................................ 51
15
Regulation of 22. December 1993 no. 1240 Concerning Helicopter

Decks on Mobile Offshore Units Note 4............................................ 51
APPENDIX
Extract Applicable NMA Technical Delegated

Items (1 March 2009)
With Respect to the NMAs Regulations for Mobile Offshore Units

(Red Book)
1.1
Regulations of 4 September 1987 no. 856 Concerning Construction of Mobile Offshore

Units (1 November 2013)
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 ROs 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.
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.
Note 1
Refer to Regulations of 20th December 1991 no. 878 concerning stability, watertight subdivision and watertight/
weathertight closing means on mobile offshore units
49
Appendix 2
1.3
Extract Applicable NMA Technical Delegated Items
A2
Regulations of 31 January 1984 no. 227 Concerning Precautionary Measure Against

Fire and Explosion on Mobile Offshore Units
6 and 7 (1 November 2013)
Dimensioning, strength, function, and workmanship of the components of the fire extinguishing system in
accordance with the ROs Rules with respect to levels of pressure, capacity, load and the like, as specified
in the NMA regulations.
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
7.10.2 and 8.1
Construction and strength of towing fastening devices, their supporting structure and the fender systems.
Regulations of 10 July 2009 no. 998 Concerning Anchoring/

Positioning Systems on Mobile Offshore Units (1 November 2013)
9 cf. 6
Strength, function, and workmanship of fairleads, in accordance with the ROs Rules with respect to levels
of design, tension, capacity and the like, as specified in the NMA regulations.
10 cf. 6
Strength, function, and workmanship of the components in the systems for thrusters-assisted and dynamic
positioning, in accordance with the ROs Rules with respect to levels of design, tension, capacity and the
like, as specified in the NMA regulations.
Regulations of 20 December 1991 no. 878 Concerning Stability,

Watertight Subdivision and Watertight/ Weathertight Closing Means
on Mobile Offshore Units
30
Strength of watertight bulkheads.
39 (1 November 2013)
Strength, function, and workmanship of hydraulic system for watertight closing means, in accordance with
the ROs Rules with respect to levels of pressure, capacity, load and the like, as specified in the NMA
regulations.
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:
50
Appendix 2
Extract Applicable NMA Technical Delegated Items
A2
9 (1 November 2013)
Strength, function and workmanship of the components in accordance with the ROs Rules with respect to
levels of pressure, capacity, load and the like, as specified in the NMA regulations.
11
Regulations of 10 February 1994 no. 123 for Mobile Offshore Units

with Production Plants and Equipment
12
Strength of hull structure.
13.2, 13.3 and 13.4 (1 November 2013)
Strength, function, and workmanship of the components of machinery and piping system to be in accordance
with the ROs Rules with respect to levels of pressure, capacity, load and the like, as specified by the NMA
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.
13
Regulations of 15 January 2008 no. 72 Concerning Helicopter Decks

on Mobile Offshore Units Note 2 (1 November 2013)
7 and 9
Material quality and strength of helicopter deck.
Note 2
15
For Norwegian flagged MOUs, Regulation 15. January 2008 no.72 shall be in force and applied in conjunction
with the first renewal of certificates after 15. January 2008.
Regulation of 22. December 1993 no. 1240 Concerning Helicopter

Decks on Mobile Offshore Units Note 3 (1 November 2013)
8 and 11
Material quality and strength of the helicopter deck.
Note 3
Regulation 22. December 1993 no. 1240 is repealed on 15. January 2013.
51
Appendix 3: Existing Units, N-Notation Compliance
APPENDIX
Existing Units, N-Notation Compliance

(1 February 2012)
Owner (applicant) requesting the N-Notation for existing units built to ABS Classification Rules are to
undergo a verification of compliance to the latest ABS Rules in addition to the verification requirements of
the ABS N-Guide. Units built to the Classification Rules from another IACS Classification Society will be
given special consideration.
When a unit is contracted to operate on the Norwegian Continental Shelf it is recommended that the Owner
(applicant) establishes contact as early as possible with the PSA to facilitate the identification of, and
properly address, major issues that may arise with respect to the acceptance of the unit.
Gap analyses are to be carried out by the applicant at intervals not exceeding five years and before completion
of the Special Periodic Survey. This is to demonstrate that the Owner (applicant) is fully aware of, and has
control over the effect of changes to references or standards that are contained in, or referenced by this Guide.
For the issuance or continuation of the N-Notation, a List identifying Accepted Deviations by the PSA relevant
to the N-Notation are to be submitted by the Owner (applicant) to ABS.
Identified deviations, as a result of the above verification process will be listed for further actions and where
modifications are considered necessary, these will be dealt with in the first instance between the Owner
(applicant) and ABS. It is to be noted, however, that the Owner (applicant) must document all deviations
including those that have been satisfactorily resolved in his application to the PSA for an Acknowledgement
of Compliance (AoC).
Alternatively, Owners (applicants) may elect to apply for the issuance of a Statement of Fact. The Statement
of Fact shall indicate any deviations from those items required by PSA for an Acknowledgement of Compliance
(AoC). This may be more appropriate, especially when in the future it is intended for a unit to operate on
the Norwegian Continental Shelf but does not yet have a contract.
52

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

MOBILE OFFSHORE UNITS OPERATING ON THE

NOVEMBER 2013 (Updated February 2014 see next page)

American Bureau of Shipping

Foreword (1 November 2013)

Floating Production Storage and Offloading Units

Hydrocarbon Production and Process Facilities

Well Intervention Units

Cranes and Lifting Appliances

The Guide contains the following three Chapters:

MOBILE OFFSHORE UNITS OPERATING ON THE

Conditions of Classification .................................................................. 1

Verification Methodology ....................................................................... 7

APPENDIX 1 Additional PSA Requirements ............................................................. 44

Chapter 1: Conditions of Classification

Scope and Conditions of Classification ............................................... 2

ABS N-Notation ............................................................................... 2

Systems Not Built Under Survey ..................................................... 2

Rules for Classification ....................................................................... 3

Effective Date of Change of Requirement ....................................... 3

Norwegian Regulations and Other Standards .................................... 4

Submission of Plans ........................................................................... 4

Hull Plans ........................................................................................ 4

Machinery Plans .............................................................................. 4

System Plans .................................................................................. 4

Abbreviations and Definitions ............................................................. 4

Section 1: Scope and Conditions of Classification

Scope and Conditions of Classification

ABS N-Notation (1 February 2012)

Systems Not Built Under Survey

Rules for Classification

Application (1 November 2013)

Guide for the Classification of Drilling Systems (CDS Guide),

Guide for Certification of Lifting Appliances,

Guide for Building and Classing Mobile Offshore Units

Other applicable ABS Rules and Guides.

Scope (1 November 2013)

Production Storage/Offloading Units (FPSO and FPDSO) Units

Storage Offloading Units (for Consent to Operate)

Well Intervention Units

and the following types of industrial systems, facilities or equipment:

Cranes and Lifting Appliances

Effective Date of Change of Requirement

Implementation of Rule Changes

Norwegian Regulations and Other Standards

Hull Plans (1 November 2013)

Abbreviations and Definitions

Abbreviations (1 November 2013)

American Bureau of Shipping

European Economic Area

Health Environment and Safety

International Association of Classification Societies

Mobile Offshore Unit

Mobile Offshore Drilling Unit

Mobile Offshore Production Unit

Norwegian Board of Health

Norwegian Continental Shelf

Norwegian Maritime Authority

Norwegian Petroleum Directorate

Norwegian Shipowners Association