Rules for Building and Classing

Steel Vessels
2000

PART 1
General Provisions

American Bureau of Shipping

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

Copyright 1999
American Bureau of Shipping
ABS Plaza
16855 Northchase Drive
Houston, TX 77060 USA
ourM I S S I O N
The mission of the American Bureau of
Shipping is to serve the public interest as
well as the needs of our clients by promoting
the security of life, property and the natural
environment primarily through the
development and verification of standards
for the design, construction and operational
maintenance of marine-related facilities.

quality & environmental

P O L I C Y
It is the policy of the American Bureau of
Shipping to be responsive to the individual
and collective needs of our clients as well
as those of the public at large, to provide
quality services in support of our mission,
and to provide our services consistent with
international standards developed to avoid,
reduce or control pollution to the
environment.

All of our client commitments, supporting

actions, and services delivered must be
recognized as expressions of Quality.
We pledge to monitor our performance
as an on-going activity and to strive for
continuous improvement.

We commit to operate consistent with

applicable environmental legislation and
regulations and to provide a framework
for establishing and reviewing environmental
objectives and targets.
PART

1
General Provisions

CONTENTS

CHAPTER 1 Scope and Conditions of Classification ............... 1

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS 2000 i

PART

1
CHAPTER 1 Scope and Conditions of
Classification

CONTENTS
SECTION 1 Classification ............................................................ 3
1 Process .................................................................... 5
3 Certificates and Reports........................................... 5
5 Representations as to Classification ........................ 6
7 Scope of Classification............................................. 6
SECTION 2 Suspension and Cancellation of Classification ..... 7
1 Termination of Classification .................................... 9
3 Notice of Surveys ..................................................... 9
5 Special Notations ..................................................... 9
7 Suspension of Class ................................................ 9
9 Lifting of Suspension.............................................. 10
11 Cancellation of Class ............................................. 11
13 Alternative Procedures, Certain Types of Vessels 11
SECTION 3 Classification Symbols .......................................... 13
1 Unrestricted Service ............................................... 15
3 Special Rules ......................................................... 15
5 Special Purpose Vessels ....................................... 15
7 Geographical Limitations........................................ 15
9 Vessels Not Built under Survey.............................. 16
11 Equipment Symbol ................................................. 16
13 AMS Symbols...................................................... 16
15 AMS Symbols......................................................... 16
17 Centralized or Automatic Control Systems ............ 16
19 Dynamic Loading Approach ................................... 16
21 SafeHull Criteria ..................................................... 16
23 Ice Class................................................................. 17
25 PORT Notation ....................................................... 17
SECTION 4 Rules for Classification ......................................... 19
1 Application of Rules ............................................... 21
3 Alternatives............................................................. 21
5 Novel Features ....................................................... 21
7 Effective Date of Rule Change............................... 22

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS 2000 1

 SECTION 5 Other Regulations ...................................................23
1 General................................................................... 23
3 International Conventions or Codes ...................... 23
5 Governmental Regulations..................................... 23
SECTION 6 IACS Audit................................................................25
SECTION 7 Submission of Plans ..............................................27
1 Hull Plans ............................................................... 29
3 Machinery Plans..................................................... 30
5 Additional Plans...................................................... 30
SECTION 8 Conditions for Surveys After Construction ...........31
1 Damage, Failure and Repair .................................. 33
3 Notification and Availability for Survey .................. 34
5 Attendance at Port State Request.......................... 34
SECTION 9 Fees .........................................................................35
SECTION 10 Disagreement...........................................................37
1 Rules ...................................................................... 37
3 Surveyors .............................................................. 37
SECTION 11 Limitation of Liability...............................................39

APPENDIX 1 Load Line Marks ......................................................41

2 ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS 2000

PART

1
CHAPTER 1 Scope and Conditions of
Classification

SECTION 1 Classification

CONTENTS
1 Process .................................................................................... 5
3 Certificates and Reports ......................................................... 5
5 Representations as to Classification ..................................... 6
7 Scope of Classification ........................................................... 6

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS 2000 3

PART

1
CHAPTER 1 Scope and Conditions of
Classification

SECTION 1 Classification 1 - 1 - 1

1 Process (1 Jan. 96) 1-1-1/1

The Classification process consists of a) the development of rules, guides, standards and other criteria
for the design and construction of marine vessels and structures, for materials, equipment and ma-
chinery, b) the review of design and survey during and after construction to verify compliance with
such rules, guides, standards or other criteria, c) the assignment and registration of class when such
compliance has been verified, and d) the issuance of a renewable Classification certificate, with an-
nual endorsements, valid for five years.
The Rules and standards are developed by Bureau staff and passed upon by committees made up of
naval architects, marine engineers, shipbuilders, engine builders, steel makers and by other technical,
operating and scientific personnel associated with the worldwide maritime industry. Theoretical re-
search and development, established engineering disciplines, as well as satisfactory service experience
are utilized in their development and promulgation. The Bureau and its committees can act only upon
such theoretical and practical considerations in developing Rules and standards.
For classification, vessels are to comply with both the hull and the machinery requirements of the
Rules.

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

3.1 1-1-1/3.1
Plan review and surveys during and after construction are conducted by the Bureau to verify to itself
and its committees that a vessel, structure, item of material, equipment or machinery is in compliance
with the Rules, Guides, standards or other criteria of the Bureau and to the satisfaction of the attend-
ing surveyor. All reports and certificates are issued solely for the use of the Bureau, its committees,
its clients and other authorized entities.

3.3 1-1-1/3.3
The Bureau will release information from reports and certificates to the Port State to assist in rectifi-
cation of deficiencies during port state control intervention. Such information includes text of condi-
tions of classification, survey due dates, and certificate expiration dates. The owner will be advised of
any request and /or release of information.

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS 2000 5

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

3.5 1-1-1/3.5
The Bureau will release certain information to the vessels hull underwriters and P&I clubs for un-
derwriting purposes. Such information includes text of overdue conditions of classification, survey
due dates, and certificate expiration dates. The owners will be advised of any request and/or release of
information.
In the case of overdue conditions of classification, the owners will be given the opportunity to verify
the accuracy of the information prior to release.

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

Classification is a representation by the Bureau as to the structural and mechanical fitness for a par-
ticular use or service in accordance with its Rules and standards. The Rules of American Bureau of
Shipping are not meant as a substitute for the independent judgement of professional designers, naval
architects, marine engineers, owners, operators, masters and crew nor as a substitute for the quality
control procedures of shipbuilders, engine builders, steel makers, suppliers, manufacturers and sellers
of marine vessels, materials, machinery or equipment. The Bureau, being a technical society, can only
act through Surveyors or others who are believed by it to be skilled and competent.
The Bureau represents solely to the vessel Owner or client of the Bureau that when assigning class it
will use due diligence in the development of Rules, Guides and standards, and in using normally ap-
plied testing standards, procedures and techniques as called for by the Rules, Guides, standards or
other criteria of the Bureau for the purpose of assigning and maintaining class. The Bureau further
represents to the vessel Owner or other client of the Bureau that its certificates and reports evidence
compliance only with one or more of the Rules, Guides, standards or other criteria of the Bureau in
accordance with the terms of such certificate or report. Under no circumstances whatsoever are these
representations to be deemed to relate to any third party.
The user of this document is responsible for ensuring compliance with all applicable laws, regulations
and other governmental directives and orders related to a vessel, its machinery and equipment, or their
operation. Nothing contained in any Rule, Guide, standard, certificate or report issued by the Bureau
shall be deemed to relieve any other entity of its duty or responsibility to comply with all applicable
laws, including those related to the environment.

7 Scope of Classification 1-1-1/7

Nothing contained in any certificate or report is to be deemed to relieve any designer, builder, Owner,
manufacturer, seller, supplier, repairer, operator, other entity or person of any warranty express or im-
plied. Any certificate or report evidences compliance only with one or more of the Rules, Guides,
standards or other criteria of American Bureau of Shipping and is issued solely for the use of the Bu-
reau, its committees, its clients or other authorized entities. Nothing contained in any certificate, re-
port, plan or document review or approval is to be deemed to be in any way a representation or state-
ment beyond those contained in 1-1-1/5. The validity, applicability and interpretation of any certifi-
cate, report, plan or document review or approval are governed by the Rules and standards of Ameri-
can Bureau of Shipping who shall remain the sole judge thereof. The Bureau is not responsible for the
consequences arising from the use by other parties of the Rules, Guides, standards or other criteria of
the American Bureau of Shipping, without review, plan approval and survey by the Bureau.
The term approved shall be interpreted to mean that the plans, reports or documents have been re-
viewed for compliance with one or more of the Rules, Guides, standards, or other criteria of the Bu-
reau.
The Rules are published on the understanding that responsibility for stability and trim, for reasonable
handling and loading, as well as for avoidance of distributions of weight which are likely to set up ab-
normally severe stresses in vessels does not rest upon the Committee.

6 ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS 2000

PART

1
CHAPTER 1 Scope and Conditions of
Classification

SECTION 2 Suspension and Cancellation

of Classification

CONTENTS
1 Termination of Classification.................................................. 9
3 Notice of Surveys .................................................................... 9
5 Special Notations .................................................................... 9
7 Suspension of Class ............................................................... 9
9 Lifting of Suspension............................................................ 10
11 Cancellation of Class ............................................................ 11
13 Alternative Procedures for Certain Types of Vessels ......... 11

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS 2000 7

PART

1
CHAPTER 1 Scope and Conditions of
Classification

SECTION 2 Suspension and Cancellation of

Classification (1998) 1 - 1 - 2

1 Termination of Classification 1-1-2/1

The continuance of the Classification of any vessel is conditional upon the Rule requirements for pe-
riodical, damage and other surveys being duly carried out. The Committee reserves the right to recon-
sider, withhold, suspend, or cancel the class of any vessel or any part of the machinery for noncompli-
ance with the Rules, for defects reported by the Surveyors which have not been rectified in accor-
dance with their recommendations, or for nonpayment of fees which are due on account of Classifica-
tion, Statutory or Cargo Gear Surveys. Suspension or cancellation of class may take effect immedi-
ately or after a specified period of time.

3 Notice of Surveys 1-1-2/3

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

5 Special Notations 1-1-2/5

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

7 Suspension of Class 1-1-2/7

7.1 1-1-2/7.1
Class will be suspended and the Certificate of Classification will become invalid, from the date of any
use, operation, loading condition, or other application of any vessel for which it has not been ap-
proved and which affects or may affect classification or the structural integrity, quality or fitness for a
particular use or service.

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS 2000 9

Part 1
Chapter 1 Scope and Conditions of Classification
Section 2 Suspension and Cancellation of Classification 1-1-2

7.3 1-1-2/7.3
Class will be suspended and the Certificate of Classification will become invalid in any of the fol-
lowing circumstances:
i) if recommendations issued by the Surveyor are not carried out by their due dates and no ex-
tension has been granted,
ii) if Continuous Survey items which are due or overdue at the time of Annual Survey are not
completed and no extension has been granted,
iii) if the periodical surveys required for maintenance of class, other than Annual, Intermediate or
Special Surveys, are not carried out by the due date and no Rule allowed extension has been
granted, or
iv) if any damage, failure, deterioration, or repair has not been completed as recommended.
7.5 1-1-2/7.5
Class may be suspended, in which case the Certificate of Classification will become invalid, if pro-
posed repairs as referred to in 7-2-1/1 have not been submitted to the Bureau and agreed upon prior to
commencement.

7.7 1-1-2/7.7
Class is automatically suspended and the Certificate of Classification is invalid in any of the following
circumstances:
i) if the Annual Survey is not completed by the date which is three (3) months after the due date,
ii) if the Intermediate Survey is not completed by the date which is three (3) months after the due
date of the third Annual Survey of the five (5) year periodic survey cycle, or
iii) if the Special Survey is not completed by the due date, unless the vessel is under attendance
for completion prior to resuming trading. Under exceptional circumstances, consideration
may be given for an extension of the Special Survey,
provided the vessel is attended and the attending Surveyor so recommends; such an extension
shall not exceed three (3) months, or
if the vessel is at sea on the Special Survey due date, and there is documented agreement to an
extension prior to the due date, positive arrangements have been made for a Surveyor to at-
tend the vessel at the first port of call, and the Bureau is satisfied there is technical justifica-
tion for an extension; such an extension shall be granted only until arrival at the first port of
call after the due date.

9 Lifting of Suspension 1-1-1/9

9.1 1-1-2/9.1
Class will be reinstated after suspension for overdue surveys, upon satisfactory completion of the
overdue surveys. Such surveys will be credited as of the original due date.

9.3 1-1-2/9.3
Class will be reinstated after suspension for overdue recommendations, upon satisfactory completion
of the overdue recommendation.

9.5 1-1-2/9.5
Class will be reinstated after suspension for overdue continuous survey items, upon satisfactory com-
pletion of the overdue items.

10 ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS 2000

Part 1
Chapter 1 Scope and Conditions of Classification
Section 2 Suspension and Cancellation of Classification 1-1-2

11 Cancellation of Class 1-1-2/11

11.1 1-1-2/11.1
If the circumstances leading to suspension of class are not corrected within the time specified, the ves-
sels class will be canceled.

11.3 1-1-2/11.3
A vessels class is canceled immediately when a vessel proceeds to sea without having completed
recommendations which were required to be dealt with before leaving port.

11.5 1-1-2/11.5
When class has been suspended for a period of three (3) months due to overdue Annual, Intermediate,
Special, or other periodical surveys required for maintenance of class; overdue Continuous Survey
items; or overdue outstanding recommendations, class will be canceled. A longer suspension period
may be granted for vessels which are either laid up, awaiting disposition of a casualty, or under atten-
dance for reinstatement.

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

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

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS 2000 11

PART

1
CHAPTER 1 Scope and Conditions of
Classification

SECTION 3 Classification Symbols

CONTENTS
1 Unrestricted Service.............................................................. 15
3 Special Rules ......................................................................... 15
5 Special Purpose Vessels ...................................................... 15
7 Geographical Limitations...................................................... 15
9 Vessels Not Built under Survey............................................ 16
11 Equipment Symbol ................................................................ 16
13 AMS Symbols ..................................................................... 16
15 AMS Symbols ........................................................................ 16
17 Centralized or Automatic Control Systems ......................... 16
19 Dynamic Loading Approach ................................................. 16
21 SafeHull Criteria .................................................................... 16
23 Ice Class................................................................................. 17
25 PORT Notation....................................................................... 17

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS 2000 13

PART

1
CHAPTER 1 Scope and Conditions of
Classification

SECTION 3 Classification Symbols 1 - 1 - 3

1 Unrestricted Service 1-1-3/1

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

3 Special Rules 1-1-3/3

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

5 Special Purpose Vessels 1-1-3/5

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

7 Geographical Limitations 1-1-3/7

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

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS 2000 15

Part 1
Chapter 1 Scope and Conditions of Classification
Section 3 Classification Symbols 1-1-3

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

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

11 Equipment Symbol 1-1-3/11

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

13 AMS Symbols 1-1-3/13

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

15 AMS Symbols 1-1-3/15

Machinery and boilers which have not been constructed and installed under survey to this Bureau, but
which are submitted for classification, will be subjected to a special classification survey. Where
found satisfactory and thereafter approved by the Committee, they will be classed and distinguished in
the Record by the symbols AMS.

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

Where, in addition to the individual unit controls, it is proposed to provide remote, centralized, or
automatic control systems for propulsion units, essential auxiliaries, or for cargo handling, relevant
data is to be submitted to permit the assessment of the effect of such systems on the safety of the ship.
All controls necessary for the safe operation of the vessel are to be proved to the Surveyors satisfac-
tion. The automatic and remote-control systems are to be in accordance with the applicable require-
ments of Part 4, Chapter 9.

19 Dynamic Loading Approach 1-1-3/19

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

21 SafeHull Criteria (2000) 1-1-3/21

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

16 ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS 2000

Part 1
Chapter 1 Scope and Conditions of Classification
Section 3 Classification Symbols 1-1-3

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

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

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

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

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS 2000 17

PART

1
CHAPTER 1 Scope and Conditions of
Classification

SECTION 4 Rules for Classification

CONTENTS
1 Application of Rules.............................................................. 21
3 Alternatives ........................................................................... 21
3.1 General .................................................................................. 21
3.3 National Regulations ............................................................. 21
3.5 Other Rules ........................................................................... 21
5 Novel Features ...................................................................... 21
7 Effective Date of Rule Change.............................................. 22
7.1 Six Month Rule ...................................................................... 22
7.3 Implementation of Rule Changes .......................................... 22

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS 2000 19

PART

1
CHAPTER 1 Scope and Conditions of
Classification

SECTION 4 Rules for Classification 1 - 1 - 4

1 Application of Rules (1997) 1-1-4/1

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

3 Alternatives 1-1-4/3

3.1 General 1-1-4/3.1

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

3.3 National Regulations 1-1-4/3.3

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

3.5 Other Rules 1-1-4/3.5

The Committee will consider hull, equipment or machinery built to the satisfaction of the Surveyors
of the Bureau in accordance with the plans that have been approved to the Rules of another recog-
nized classification society with verification of compliance by the Bureau. A special comment will be
entered in the Record indicating that classification has incorporated the provisions of this paragraph.
Submission of plans is to be in accordance with Section 1-1-7.

5 Novel Features 1-1-4/5

Vessels which contain novel features of design in respect of the hull, machinery, or equipment to
which the provisions of the Rules are not directly applicable may be classed, when approved by the

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS 2000 21

Part 1
Chapter 1 Scope and Conditions of Classification
Section 4 Rules for Classification 1-1-4

Committee, on the basis that the Rules insofar as applicable have been complied with and that special
consideration has been given to the novel features based on the best information available at the time.

7 Effective Date of Rule Change 1-1-4/7

7.1 Six Month Rule 1-1-4/7.1

Changes to the Rules are to become effective six months from the date on which The Technical
Committee approves them. However, the Bureau may bring into force individual changes before that
date if necessary or appropriate.

7.3 Implementation of Rule Changes 1-1-4/7.3

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

22 ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS 2000

PART

1
CHAPTER 1 Scope and Conditions of
Classification

SECTION 5 Other Regulations 1 - 1 - 5

1 General 1-1-5/1

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

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

Where authorized by the Administration of a country signatory thereto and upon request of the Own-
ers of a classed vessel or one intended to be classed, the Bureau will survey a new or existing vessel
for compliance with the provisions of International Conventions and Codes including the following,
and certify thereto in the manner prescribed in the Convention or Code.
International Convention on Load Lines, 1966.
International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974, as amended.
International Convention on Tonnage Measurement of Ships, 1969.
International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships, 1973/78, as amended.
International Code for the Construction and Equipment of Ships Carrying Liquefied Gases in Bulk.
International Code for the Construction and Equipment of Ships Carrying Dangerous Chemicals in
Bulk.

5 Governmental Regulations 1-1-5/5

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

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS 2000 23

PART

1
CHAPTER 1 Scope and Conditions of
Classification

SECTION 6 IACS Audit (1995) 1 - 1 - 6

The International Association of Classification Societies (IACS) conducts audits of processes fol-
lowed by all its member societies to assess the degree of compliance with the IACS Quality System
Certification Scheme requirements. For this purpose, auditors from IACS may accompany ABS per-
sonnel at any stage of the classification or statutory work which may necessitate the auditors having
access to the vessel or access to the premises of the manufacturer or shipbuilder.
In such instances, prior authorization for the auditors access will be sought by the local ABS office.

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS 2000 25

PART

1
CHAPTER 1 Scope and Conditions of
Classification

SECTION 7 Submission of Plans

CONTENTS
1 Hull Plans............................................................................... 29
3 Machinery Plans ................................................................... 30
5 Additional Plans .................................................................... 30

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS 2000 27

PART

1
CHAPTER 1 Scope and Conditions of
Classification

SECTION 7 Submission of Plans 1 - 1 - 7

1 Hull Plans 1-1-7/1

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

Vessel Specifications Bow framing

General Arrangement Stem
Midship section Stern framing
Scantling profile and decks Stern frame and rudder
Bottom construction, floors, girders, etc. Shaft struts
Framing plan Spectacle frames and bossing details
Inner bottom plating Docking plan
Shell expansion Hatches and hatch-closing arrangements
Deck plans Ventilation system on weather decks
Pillars and girders Capacity plan
Watertight and deep-tank bulkheads Lines and body plan
Miscellaneous nontight bulkheads which are used as Superstructures and deckhouses, and their closing
structural supports arrangements
Shaft tunnels Anchor handling arrangements
Machinery casings, boiler, engine and main
auxiliary foundations

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

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS 2000 29

Part 1
Chapter 1 Scope and Conditions of Classification
Section 7 Submission of Plans 1-1-7

3 Machinery Plans 1-1-7/3

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

5 Additional Plans 1-1-7/5

Where certification under 1-1-5/3 or 1-1-5/5 is requested, submission of additional plans and calcula-
tions may be required.

30 ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS 2000

PART

1
CHAPTER 1 Scope and Conditions of
Classification

SECTION 8 Conditions for Surveys After

Construction

CONTENTS
1 Damage, Failure and Repair ................................................. 33
1.1 Examination and Repair ......................................................... 33
1.3 Repairs ................................................................................... 33
1.5 Representation ....................................................................... 33
3 Notification and Availability for Survey ............................... 34
5 Attendance at Port State Request ........................................ 34

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS 2000 31

PART

1
CHAPTER 1 Scope and Conditions of
Classification

SECTION 8 Conditions for Surveys After

Construction

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

1.1 Examination and Repair 1-1-8/1.1

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

1.3 Repairs 1-1-8/1.3

Where repairs to hull, machinery or equipment, which affect or may affect classification, are planned
in advance to be carried out, a complete repair procedure including the extent of proposed repair and
the need for Surveyors attendance is to be submitted to and agreed upon by the Bureau reasonably in
advance. Failure to notify the Bureau, in advance of the repairs, may result in suspension of the ves-
sels classification until such time as the repair is redone or evidence submitted to satisfy the Surveyor
that the repair was properly carried out.

Note: The above applies also to repairs during voyage.

The above is not intended to include maintenance and overhaul to hull, machinery and equipment in
accordance with the recommended manufacturers procedures and established marine practice and
which does not require Bureau approval; however, any repair as a result of such maintenance and
overhauls which affects or may affect classification is to be noted in the ships log and submitted to
the Surveyor as required by 1-1-8/1.1.

1.5 Representation 1-1-8/1.5

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

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS 2000 33

Part 1
Chapter 1 Scope and Conditions of Classification
Section 8 Conditions for Surveys After Construction 1-1-8

3 Notification and Availability for Survey (1 Jan. 96) 1-1-8/3

The Surveyors are to have access to classed vessels at all reasonable times. For the purpose of Sur-
veyor Monitoring, monitoring Surveyors shall also have access to classed vessels at all reasonable
times. Such access may include attendance at the same time as the assigned Surveyor or during a sub-
sequent visit without the assigned Surveyor. The Owners or their representatives are to notify the Sur-
veyors on all occasions when a vessel can be examined in dry dock or on a slipway.
The Surveyors are to undertake all surveys on classed vessels upon request, with adequate notifica-
tion, of the Owners or their representatives and are to report thereon to the Committee. Should the
Surveyors find occasion during any survey, to recommend repairs or further examination, notification
is to be given immediately to the Owners or their representatives in order that appropriate action may
be taken. The Surveyors are to avail themselves for every convenient opportunity for carrying out pe-
riodical surveys in conjunction with surveys of damages and repairs in order to avoid duplication of
work.

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

It is recognized that Port State authorities legally may have access to a vessel. In cooperation with
Port States, ABS Surveyors will attend on board a classed vessel when so requested by a Port State,
and upon concurrence by the vessels master will carry out a survey in order to facilitate the rectifica-
tion of reported deficiencies or other discrepancies that affect or may affect classification. ABS Sur-
veyors will also cooperate with Port States by providing inspectors with background information, if
requested. Such information includes text of conditions of class, survey due dates, and certificate ex-
piration dates.
Where appropriate, the vessels flag state will be notified of such attendance and survey.

34 ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS 2000

PART

1
CHAPTER 1 Scope and Conditions of
Classification

SECTION 9 Fees 1 - 1 - 9

Fees in accordance with normal ABS practice will be charged for all services rendered by the Bureau.
Expenses incurred by the Bureau in connection with these services will be charged in addition to the
fees. Fees and expenses will be billed to the party requesting that particular service.

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS 2000 35

PART

1
CHAPTER 1 Scope and Conditions of
Classification

SECTION 10 Disagreement 1 - 1 - 1 0

1 Rules 1-1-10/1

Any disagreement regarding either the proper interpretation of the Rules, or translation of the Rules
from the English language edition, is to be referred to the Bureau for resolution.

3 Surveyors 1-1-10/3

In case of disagreement between the Owners or builders and the Surveyors regarding the material,
workmanship, extent of repairs, or application of the Rules relating to any vessel classed or proposed
to be classed by this Bureau, an appeal may be made in writing to the Committee, who will order a
special survey to be held. Should the opinion of the Surveyor be confirmed, the expense of this special
survey is to be paid by the party appealing.

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS 2000 37

PART

1
CHAPTER 1 Scope and Conditions of
Classification

SECTION 11 Limitation of Liability 1 - 1 - 1 1

The combined liability of American Bureau of Shipping, its committees, officers, employees, agents
or subcontractors for any loss, claim, or damage arising from its negligent performance or nonper-
formance of any of its services or from breach of any implied or express warranty of workmanlike
performance in connection with those services, or from any other reason, to any person, corporation,
partnership, business entity, sovereign, country or nation, will be limited to the greater of a) $100,000
or b) an amount equal to ten times the sum actually paid for the services alleged to be deficient.
The limitation of liability may be increased up to an amount twenty-five times that sum paid for serv-
ices upon receipt of Clients written request at or before the time of performance of services and upon
payment by Client of an additional fee of $10.00 for every $1,000.00 increase in the limitation.

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS 2000 39

PART

1
CHAPTER 1 Scope and Conditions of
Classification

APPENDIX 1 Load Line Marks 1 - 1 - A 1

Load Line Markings for Ocean-going Vessels

Millimeters
The American Bureau of Shipping is authorized to assign Load Lines to vessels registered in the
United States and other countries. Requests for the assignment of Load Lines are to be made on forms
which will be furnished by one of the offices of the Bureau.
300 mm
Top of deck line

540mm
forward of center
of ring
Freeboard to be These measurements
measured from to be taken from
TF
center of ring to 75 mm center of ring to
top of the deck line
F top of each line
T
115 mm
A B S
Upper edge of horizontal
W
line to pass through the
center of ring WNA

300 mm

38mm 230 mm 230 mm

450 mm

Thickness of all lines 25mm

The center of the ring is to be placed on each side of the vessel at the middle of the length as defined
in the Load Line Regulations. The ring and lines are to be permanently marked, as by center punch,
chisel cut or bead of weld.
AB American Bureau of Shipping
TF Tropical Fresh Water Allowance
F Fresh Water Allowance
T Load Line in Tropical Zones

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS 2000 41

Part 1
Chapter 1 Scope and Conditions of Classification
Appendix 1 Load Line Marks 1-1-A1

S Summer Load Line

W Winter Load Line
WNA Winter North Atlantic Load Line

Load Line Markings for Ocean-going Vessels

Inches
The American Bureau of Shipping is authorized to assign Load Lines to vessels registered in the
United States and other countries. Requests for the assignment of Load Lines are to be made on forms
which will be furnished by one of the offices of the Bureau.
12 in.
Top of deck line

21 in.
forward of center
of ring
Freeboard to be These measurements
measured from to be taken from
TF
center of ring to 3 in. center of ring to
top of the deck line
F top of each line
T
4 in.
A B S
Upper edge of horizontal
W
line to pass through the
center of ring WNA

12 in.

1 in. 9 in. 9 in.

18 in.

Thickness of all lines 1 in.

The center of the ring is to be placed on each side of the vessel at the middle of the length as defined
in the Load Line Regulations. The ring and lines are to be permanently marked, as by center punch,
chisel cut or bead of weld.

AB American Bureau of Shipping

TF Tropical Fresh Water Allowance
F Fresh Water Allowance
T Load Line in Tropical Zones
S Summer Load Line
W Winter Load Line
WNA Winter North Atlantic Load Line

42 ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS 2000