Part 1 Steel Vessel - Conditions of Classification

RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING
STEEL VESSELS
2001
PART 1
CONDITIONS OF CLASSIFICATION
American Bureau of Shipping

Incorporated by Act of Legislature of
the State of New York 1862
Copyright  2000
American Bureau of Shipping
ABS Plaza
16855 Northchase Drive
Houston, TX 77060 USA
PART
1
Conditions of Classification
CONTENTS
CHAPTER 1 Scope and Conditions of Classification .................. 1
Section 1 Classification...................................................... 3
Section 2 Suspension and Cancellation of
Classification...................................................... 7
Section 3 Classification Symbols..................................... 13
Section 4 Rules for Classification .................................... 19
Section 5 Other Regulations............................................ 23
Section 6 IACS Audit ....................................................... 25
Section 7 Submission of Plans ........................................ 27
Section 8 Conditions for Surveys After Construction....... 31
Section 9 Fees ................................................................. 35
Section 10 Disagreement .................................................. 37
Section 11 Limitation of Liability ........................................ 39
Appendix 1 Load Line Marks .............................................. 41

Appendix 2 Classification Symbols and Notations ............. 43
Appendix 3 ABS Type Approval Program .......................... 59
ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS 2001 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 General..................................................................... 9
3 Notice of Surveys ..................................................... 9
5 Special Notations ..................................................... 9
7 Suspension of Class ................................................ 9
9 Lifting of Suspension.............................................. 11
11 Cancellation of Class ............................................. 11
13 Alternative Procedures for Certain Types of
Vessels................................................................... 11
SECTION 3 Classification Symbols and Notations .................. 13
1 Unrestricted Service ............................................... 15
3 Special Rules ......................................................... 15
5 Special Purpose Vessels ....................................... 15
7 Geographical Limitations........................................ 16
9 Vessels Not Built Under Survey ............................. 16
11 Equipment Symbol ................................................. 16
13 À AMS Symbols ..................................................... 16
15 AMS Symbols......................................................... 16
17 Centralized or Automatic Control Systems ............ 16
19 Dynamic Loading Approach ................................... 17
21 SafeHull Criteria ..................................................... 17
23 Ice Class................................................................. 17
25 PORT Notation ....................................................... 17
SECTION 4 Rules for Classification .......................................... 19
1 Application of Rules ............................................... 21
3 Alternatives............................................................. 21
ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS 2001 1

5 Novel Features ....................................................... 22
7 Effective Date of Rule Change............................... 22
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

APPENDIX 2 Classification Symbols and Notations ...................43
APPENDIX 3 ABS Type Approval Program..................................59
1 General................................................................... 61
3 Limitations .............................................................. 62
5 Administration......................................................... 62
2 ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS 2001

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

PART
1
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
machinery, b) the review of design and survey during and after construction to verify compliance with
such rules, guides, standards or other criteria, c) the assignment and registration of class when such
compliance has been verified, and d) the issuance of a renewable Classification certificate, with
annual endorsements, valid for five years.
The Rules and standards are developed by Bureau staff and passed upon by committees made up of
naval architects, marine engineers, shipbuilders, engine builders, steel makers and by other technical,
operating and scientific personnel associated with the worldwide maritime industry. Theoretical
research and development, established engineering disciplines, as well as satisfactory service
experience are utilized in their development and promulgation. The Bureau and its committees can act
only upon such theoretical and practical considerations in developing Rules and standards.
For classification, vessels are to comply with both the hull and the machinery requirements of the
Rules.
3 Certificates and Reports (1 Jan. ’96) 1-1-1/3

3.1 1-1-1/3.1
Plan review and surveys during and after construction are conducted by the Bureau to verify to itself
and its committees that a vessel, structure, item of material, equipment or machinery is in compliance
with the Rules, Guides, standards or other criteria of the Bureau and to the satisfaction of the
attending surveyor. All reports and certificates are issued solely for the use of the Bureau, its
committees, its clients and other authorized entities.
3.3 1-1-1/3.3
The Bureau will release information from reports and certificates to the Port State to assist in
rectification of deficiencies during port state control intervention. Such information includes text of
conditions of classification, survey due dates, and certificate expiration dates. The owner will be
advised of any request and /or release of information.

Part 1 Conditions of Classification
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 vessel’s hull underwriters and P&I clubs for
underwriting purposes. Such information includes text of overdue conditions of classification, survey
due dates, and certificate expiration dates. The owners will be advised of any request and/or release of
information.
In the case of overdue conditions of classification, the owners will be given the opportunity to verify
the accuracy of the information prior to release.
5 Representations as to Classification 1-1-1/5

Classification is a representation by the Bureau as to the structural and mechanical fitness for a
particular use or service in accordance with its Rules and standards. The Rules of American Bureau of
Shipping are not meant as a substitute for the independent judgement of professional designers, naval
architects, marine engineers, owners, operators, masters and crew nor as a substitute for the quality
control procedures of shipbuilders, engine builders, steel makers, suppliers, manufacturers and sellers
of marine vessels, materials, machinery or equipment. The Bureau, being a technical society, can only
act through Surveyors or others who are believed by it to be skilled and competent.
The Bureau represents solely to the vessel Owner or client of the Bureau that when assigning class it
will use due diligence in the development of Rules, Guides and standards, and in using normally
applied testing standards, procedures and techniques as called for by the Rules, Guides, standards or
other criteria of the Bureau for the purpose of assigning and maintaining class. The Bureau further
represents to the vessel Owner or other client of the Bureau that its certificates and reports evidence
compliance only with one or more of the Rules, Guides, standards or other criteria of the Bureau in
accordance with the terms of such certificate or report. Under no circumstances whatsoever are these
representations to be deemed to relate to any third party.
The user of this document is responsible for ensuring compliance with all applicable laws, regulations
and other governmental directives and orders related to a vessel, its machinery and equipment, or their
operation. Nothing contained in any Rule, Guide, standard, certificate or report issued by the Bureau
shall be deemed to relieve any other entity of its duty or responsibility to comply with all applicable
laws, including those related to the environment.
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
implied. Any certificate or report evidences compliance only with one or more of the Rules, Guides,
standards or other criteria of the American Bureau of Shipping and is issued solely for the use of the
Bureau, its committees, its clients or other authorized entities. Nothing contained in any certificate,
report, plan or document review or approval is to be deemed to be in any way a representation or
statement beyond those contained in 1-1-1/5. The validity, applicability and interpretation of any
certificate, report, plan or document review or approval are governed by the Rules and standards of
the American Bureau of Shipping who shall remain the sole judge thereof. The Bureau is not
responsible for the consequences arising from the use by other parties of the Rules, Guides, standards
or other criteria of the American Bureau of Shipping, without review, plan approval and survey by the
Bureau.
The term ‘‘approved’’ shall be interpreted to mean that the plans, reports or documents have been
reviewed for compliance with one or more of the Rules, Guides, standards, or other criteria acceptable
to the Bureau.
The Rules are published 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
abnormally severe stresses in vessels does not rest upon the Committee.

PART
1
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............................................................ 11
11 Cancellation of Class ............................................................ 11
13 Alternative Procedures for Certain Types of Vessels ......... 11

PART
1
Classification
SECTION 2 Suspension and Cancellation of

Classification (1998) 1 - 1 - 2
1 General 1-1-2/1
The continuance of the Classification of any vessel is conditional upon the Rule requirements for
periodical, damage and other surveys being duly carried out. The Committee reserves the right to
reconsider, withhold, suspend, or cancel the class of any vessel or any part of the machinery for
noncompliance with the Rules, for defects reported by the Surveyors which have not been rectified in
accordance with their recommendations, or for nonpayment of fees which are due on account of
Classification, Statutory or Cargo Gear Surveys. Suspension or cancellation of class may take effect
immediately or after a specified period of time.
3 Notice of Surveys 1-1-2/3

It is the responsibility of the owner to ensure that all surveys necessary for the maintenance of class
are carried out at the proper time. The Bureau will notify an owner of upcoming surveys and
outstanding recommendations. This may be done by means of a letter, a quarterly vessel status or
other communication. The non-receipt of such notice, however, does not absolve the owner from his
responsibility to comply with survey requirements for maintenance of class.
5 Special Notations 1-1-2/5

If the survey requirements related to maintenance of special notations are not carried out as required,
the suspension or cancellation may be limited to those special notations only.
7 Suspension of Class 1-1-2/7

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

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
following circumstances:
i) if recommendations issued by the Surveyor are not carried out by their due dates and no
extension has been granted,
ii) if Continuous Survey items which are due or overdue at the time of Annual Survey are not
completed and no extension has been granted,
iii) if the other surveys required for maintenance of class, other than Annual, Intermediate or
Special Surveys, are not carried out by the due date and no Rule allowed extension has been
granted, or
iv) if any damage, failure, 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
proposed repairs as referred to in 7-2-1/7 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
attend the vessel at the first port of call, and the Bureau is satisfied there is technical
justification for an extension; such an extension shall be granted only until arrival at the first
port of call after the due date.
7.9 1-1-2/7.9
If due to circumstances reasonably beyond the Owner’s or the Bureau’s control (limited to such cases
as damage to the vessel, unforeseen inability of the Bureau to attend the vessel due to the
governmental restrictions on right of access or movement of personnel, unforeseeable delays in port
or inability to discharge cargo due to unusually lengthy periods of severe weather, strikes, civil strife,
acts of war, or other cases of force majeure) the ship is not in a port where the overdue surveys can be
completed at the expiry of the periods allowed above, the Bureau may allow the vessel to sail, in
class, directly to an agreed discharge port and, if necessary, hence, in ballast, to an agreed port at
which the survey will be completed, provided:
i) the overdue surveys are carried out to the extent practicable at the first port of call; and
ii) the Bureau is satisfied that the vessel is fit to sail and that the Owner is acting in good faith.
If class has already been automatically suspended in such cases, it may be reinstated subject to the
conditions presented in this paragraph.

Section 2 Suspension and Cancellation of Classification 1-1-2
9 Lifting of Suspension 1-1-1/9

9.1 1-1-2/9.1
Class will be reinstated after suspension for overdue surveys, upon satisfactory completion of the
overdue surveys. Such surveys will be credited as of the original due date.
9.3 1-1-2/9.3
Class will be reinstated after suspension for overdue recommendations, upon satisfactory completion
of the overdue recommendation.
9.5 1-1-2/9.5
Class will be reinstated after suspension for overdue continuous survey items, upon satisfactory
completion of the overdue items.
11 Cancellation of Class 1-1-2/11
11.1 1-1-2/11.1
If the circumstances leading to suspension of class are not corrected within the time specified, the
vessel’s class will be canceled.
11.3 1-1-2/11.3
A vessel’s class is canceled immediately when a vessel proceeds to sea without having completed
recommendations which were required to be dealt with before leaving port.
11.5 1-1-2/11.5
When class has been suspended for a period of three (3) months due to overdue Annual, Intermediate,
Special, or other surveys required for maintenance of class; overdue Continuous Survey items; or
overdue outstanding recommendations, class will be canceled. A longer suspension period may be
granted for vessels which are either laid up, awaiting disposition of a casualty, or under attendance for
reinstatement.
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.

PART
1
Classification
SECTION 3 Classification Symbols and

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

PART
1
Classification
SECTION 3 Classification Symbols and

Notations 1 - 1 - 3
Note: A listing of Classification Symbols and Notations available to the Owners of vessels, offshore
drilling and production units and other marine structures and systems is provided in Appendix 1-1-A2.
1 Unrestricted Service 1-1-3/1

Vessels which have been built to the satisfaction of the Surveyors to the Bureau to the full
requirements of the Rules, or to their equivalent, where approved by the Committee for unrestricted
ocean service at the assigned freeboards, will be classed and distinguished in the Record by the
symbols À A1 indicating compliance with the hull requirements of the Rules and for self-propelled
vessels À AMS indicating compliance with the machinery requirements of the Rules.
3 Special Rules 1-1-3/3

Vessels which have been built to the satisfaction of the Surveyors to the Bureau to the requirements as
contained in the Rules for special types of vessels and which are approved by the Committee for
unrestricted ocean service at the assigned freeboards, will be classed and distinguished in the Record
by the symbols À A1 followed by the appropriate notation, such as Oil Carrier, Ore Carrier, Bulk
Carrier, Ore or Oil Carriers, Oil or Bulk/Ore (OBO) Carrier, Passenger Vessel, Vehicle
Carrier, Container Carrier, Towing Vessel, Refrigerated Cargo Carrier.
5 Special Purpose Vessels 1-1-3/5

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

Section 3 Classification Symbols and Notations 1-1-3
7 Geographical Limitations 1-1-3/7

Vessels which have been built to the satisfaction of the Surveyors to the Bureau to special modified
requirements for a limited service, where approved by the Committee for that particular service, will
be classed and distinguished in the Record by the symbols and notations as described in 1-1-3/1,
1-1-3/3, and 1-1-3/5, but the symbols and notations will either be followed by or have included in
them the appropriate service limitation.
9 Vessels Not Built Under Survey 1-1-3/9

Vessels which have not been built under survey to this Bureau, but which are submitted for
classification, will be subjected to a special classification survey. Where found satisfactory and
thereafter approved by the Committee, they will be classed and distinguished in the Record by the
symbols and special notations as described in 1-1-3/1 to 1-1-3/7, but the mark À signifying the survey
during construction will be omitted.
11 Equipment Symbol 1-1-3/11

The symbol Á placed after the symbols of classification, thus: À A1 Á will signify that the
equipment of anchors and chain cables of the vessel is in compliance with the requirements of the
Rules, or with requirements corresponding to the service limitation noted in the vessel’s classification,
which have been specially approved for the particular service.
13 À AMS 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 À 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 Surveyor’s
satisfaction. The automatic and remote-control systems are to be in accordance with the applicable
requirements of Part 4, Chapter 9.

Section 3 Classification Symbols and Notations 1-1-3
19 Dynamic Loading Approach 1-1-3/19

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

PART
1
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
3.7 ABS Type Approval Program ................................................. 22
5 Novel Features....................................................................... 22
7 Effective Date of Rule Change.............................................. 22
7.1 Effective Date ......................................................................... 22
7.3 Implementation of Rule Changes ........................................... 22

PART
1
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
unrestricted ocean service, except where specifically mentioned otherwise. For smaller vessels, refer
to the Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels under 90 Meters (295 Feet) in Length. These
requirements are applicable to those features that are permanent in nature and can be verified by plan
review, calculation, physical survey or other appropriate means. Any statement in the Rules regarding
other features is to be considered as a guidance to the designer, builder, owner, et al.
3 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
engineering 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
recognized classification society with verification of compliance by the Bureau. A special comment
will be entered in the Record indicating that classification has incorporated the provisions of this
paragraph. Where the plans have been reviewed to the SafeHull Phase A requirements in Part 5,
Chapter 1, Section 4 for tankers, Part 5, Chapter 3, Section 4 for bulk carriers or Part 5, Chapter 5,
Section 4 for container carriers the notation SHR will be entered in column 5 of the Record.
Submission of plans is to be in accordance with Section 1-1-7.

Section 4 Rules for Classification 1-1-4
3.7 ABS Type Approval Program 1-1-4/3.7

Products that can be consistently manufactured to the same design and specification, may, in lieu of
individual unit certification required in various sections of the Rules, be certified under the ABS Type
Approval Program. The ABS Type Approval Program is an option for the acceptance of products and
may be applied at the request of the designer or manufacturer as an alternative means of product
certification.
ABS has also been authorized to type approve under the type approval program certain equipment on
behalf of Administrations.
See the ABS Type Approval Program in Appendix 1-1-A3.
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
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 Effective Date 1-1-4/7.1

Changes to the Rules are to become effective on the date specified by the Bureau. In general, the
effective date in is not less than six months from the date on which The Technical Committee
approves them. However, the Bureau may bring into force individual changes before that date if
necessary or appropriate. The effective date of changes to the Rules can be found in the Introduction
to the ABS publication “Notices and General Information”, that is published with the Rules for
Building and Classing Steel Vessels.
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
classification. If one or more vessels are to be constructed from plans previously approved, no
retroactive application of the subsequent Rule changes will be required except as may be necessary or
appropriate for all contemplated construction.

PART
1
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
requirements.
3 International Conventions or Codes 1-1-5/3
Where authorized by the Administration of a country signatory thereto and upon request of the
Owners of a classed vessel or one intended to be classed, the Bureau will survey a new or existing
vessel for compliance with the provisions of International Conventions and Codes including the
following, and certify thereto in the manner prescribed in the Convention or Code.
International Convention on Load Lines, 1966.
International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974, as amended.
International Convention on Tonnage Measurement of Ships, 1969.
International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships, 1973/78, as amended.
International Code for the Construction and Equipment of Ships Carrying Liquefied Gases in
Bulk.
International Code for the Construction and Equipment of Ships Carrying Dangerous
Chemicals in Bulk.
5 Governmental Regulations 1-1-5/5
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.

PART
1
Classification
SECTION 6 IACS Audit (1995) 1 - 1 - 6
The International Association of Classification Societies (IACS) conducts audits of processes

followed by all its member societies to assess the degree of compliance with the IACS Quality System
Certification Scheme requirements. For this purpose, auditors from IACS may accompany ABS
personnel at any stage of the classification or statutory work which may necessitate the auditors
having access to the vessel or access to the premises of the manufacturer or shipbuilder.
In such instances, prior authorization for the auditor’s access will be sought by the local ABS office.

PART
1
Classification
SECTION 7 Submission of Plans
CONTENTS
1 Hull Plans............................................................................... 29
3 Machinery Plans .................................................................... 30
5 Additional Plans .................................................................... 30

PART
1
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
submission, one copy for the use of the Surveyor where the vessel is being built, and one copy to be
retained in the ABS Technical office for record. Additional copies may be required where the required
attendance of the Surveyor is anticipated at more than one location.

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

PART
1
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

PART
1
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 Surveyor’s
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 Surveyor’s 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
vessels’ 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 manufacturer’s procedures and established marine practice and
which does not require Bureau approval; however, any repair as a result of such maintenance and
overhauls which affects or may affect classification is to be noted in the ship’s log and submitted to
the Surveyor as required by 1-1-8/1.1.
1.5 Representation 1-1-8/1.5

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

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
Surveyor Monitoring, monitoring Surveyors shall also have access to classed vessels at all reasonable
times. Such access may include attendance at the same time as the assigned Surveyor or during a
subsequent visit without the assigned Surveyor. The Owners or their representatives are to notify the
Surveyors on all occasions when a vessel can be examined in dry dock or on a slipway.
The Surveyors are to undertake all surveys on classed vessels upon request, with adequate
notification, 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 periodical 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 vessel’s master will carry out a survey in order to facilitate the
rectification of reported deficiencies or other discrepancies that affect or may affect classification.
ABS Surveyors 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 expiration dates.
Where appropriate, the vessel’s flag state will be notified of such attendance and survey.

PART
1
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.

PART
1
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.

PART
1
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
nonperformance 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
services upon receipt of Client’s 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.

PART
1
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

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 ½ in.
A B S
Upper edge of horizontal
W
line to pass through the
center of ring WNA
12 in.
1½ 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

PART
1
Classification
APPENDIX 2 Classification Symbols and

Notations 1 - 1 - A 2
Classification Symbols and Notations

Listing of Classification Symbols and Notations
This section indicates a summary of ABS classification symbols and notations for vessels, offshore
drilling and production units, and other marine structure and systems presented in tabulated form for
the users' reference and guidance. All vessels, units, structures and systems, when classed to ABS
Rules, are assigned the designated classification symbol(s) accompanied by additional classification
notations, together which describe the character of the assigned classification.
Classification symbols consist of a single mark, single figure or a single letter that represents
the design features of a vessel. (e.g. À, A1, Á, etc.)
Classification notation consists of words, acronyms, letters and abbreviations that describe a
vessel's, specific design parameters and restrictions, cargo type, service or applicable survey
characteristics. (e.g. Oil Carrier, ACCU, Gulf of Mexico, SH, HM2, CPP, etc.)
For the purpose of ABS classification of a vessel, typically, one or more symbols and notations that
will denote the vessel’s classification will be assigned. A typical arrangement of classification will
consist of the following structure:

Appendix 2 Classification Symbols and Notations 1-1-A2
EQUIPMENT VESSEL GEOGRAPHICAL SYSTEMS DESIGN

À A1 SURVEY
Á TYPE LIMITATION NOTATION CRITERIA
See: Table F e.g. ES
See: Table E e.g. SH
See: Table D e.g. ACC
See: Table C e.g. Gulf of Mexico
See: Table B e.g. Oil Carrier
See: Table A e.g. Anchoring/Mooring Equipment
See: Table A e.g. A1 Service denote
See: Table A e.g. À Maltese Cross symbol
For example, a vessel designed in accordance with SafeHull criteria for the carriage of cargo
containers in the Gulf of Mexico, having a propulsion system with shipboard automation and hull
condition monitoring systems aboard, will be classed as follows:
À A1 Á Container Carrier, SH, Gulf of Mexico, À AMS, ACCU, HM2

TABLE A
Principal Elements
SYMBOL DESCRIPTION REFERENCE
This Maltese Cross construction symbol will be assigned to vessels for
which hull construction and/or manufacture of its machinery and
À components are carried out under ABS survey. For a vessel, constructed SVR 1-1-3/1
under survey of another recognized Classification Society or Authority, the
symbol À will be omitted from the classification.
This symbol indicates compliance with the Hull requirements of the ABS
Rules or their equivalent, for unrestricted ocean service. The symbol A1
may be followed by appropriate vessel type notation such as Oil Carrier,
A1 SVR 1-1-3/3
Bulk Carrier, Fuel Oil Carrier, Ore Carrier, Passenger Vessel,
Vehicle Carrier, Container Carrier, Towing Vessel, Refrigerated
Cargo Carrier, Liquefied Gas Carrier.
This notation is assigned to machinery and boilers constructed and installed

AMS SVR 1-1-3/13
to ABS Rules requirements.
This symbol signifies that the anchoring/mooring equipment on the vessel

are in compliance with the requirements of the Rules, or with requirements
Á corresponding to the service limitations noted in the vessel’s classification, SVR 1-1-3/11
which has been approved for the particular service of the Rules. The Á is
placed after the symbol À A1.
This notation for Reduced Weight anchors is assigned for specially

considered anchor of proven superior holding ability for which the mass
RW SVR 3-5-1/7
may be reduced up to a maximum of 25% from the mass specified in
3-5-1/Table 1.
This notation for High Holding Power anchors is assigned for specially
HHP designed anchor for which proven holding power is not less than two times HSC 3/22.11.2
of an ordinary stockless anchor.
This notation for Super High Holding Power anchors is assigned for
SHHP specially designed anchor for which proven holding power is not less than HSC 3/22.11.3
four times of an ordinary stockless anchor.
This symbol signifies that the anchor, chains or wire rope specified by the 1/1.3.6 of the
Owner satisfy the MODU Rules for position mooring. It is applicable to Rules for Building
Â ship type displacement hull designed for offshore operation as well as to and Classing
multiple hull design. The symbol Â is placed after the classification Mobile Offshore
notation À A1. Drilling Units
1/1.3.6 of the
This symbol signifies that that the anchor, chains or wire rope satisfy the
Rules for Building
MODU Rules for position mooring. It is applicable to ship type
Ã and Classing
displacement hull designed for offshore operation as well as to multiple
Mobile Offshore
hull design. The symbol Ã is placed after the classification notation À A1
Drilling Units
SVR: Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels

HSC: Guide for Building and Classing High Speed Craft

TABLE B
Vessel Type
TYPE DESCRIPTION REFERENCE
This notation is to be assigned to vessels designed for the carriage of
dry bulk cargoes and built to the requirements of Part 5, Chapter 3 or 4.
In addition, the special comment(s) will be published in the column 5 of
the Record in order to reflect specific design features. (e.g. special
Bulk Carrier SVR 5-3-1/1.1
comment 5, “Strengthened for the carriage of heavy cargoes” or 7,
“Strengthen for the carriage of heavy cargoes – certain holds may be
empty” for the reinforcement for carriage of heavy-density cargoes,
special loading arrangement, or both)
This notation is to be assigned to a vessel designed primarily for the

carriage of cargo containers in holds and/or on deck, or both, with
Container Carrier SVR 5-5-1/11
structures for that purpose, such as cell guides, pedestals etc., and built
to the requirements of Part 5, Chapter 5 or 6.
Combination This notation is to be assigned to a vessel, which is constructed

SVR 7-2-A1/1.3.1
Carrier primarily to carry ore/oil in bulk.
This notation is to be assigned to vessels designed for the carriage of ore

Ore Carrier SVR 5-3-1/1.1
cargoes and built to the requirements of Part 5, Chapter 5 or 6.
This notation is to be assigned to vessels designed for the carriage of oil

cargoes in bulk and built to the requirements of Part 5, Chapter 1 or 2.
Oil Carrier SVR 5-3-1/1.1
The term “oil” refers to petroleum products with a flash point below
60o C.
This notation is to be assigned to vessels designed for the carriage of

fuel oil cargoes in bulk and built to the requirements of Part 5, Chapter
Fuel Oil Carrier SVR 5-3-1/1.1
1 or 2. The term “fuel oil” refers to petroleum products with a flash
point above 60o C.
This notation is assigned to vessels designed and specifically fitted for

Chemical Carriers the carriage of dangerous or noxious liquid chemical substances and SVR 5-9-1/1.1.1
built to the requirements of Part 5, Chapter 9.
The notation is to be assigned to vessels designed and specifically fitted

Liquefied Gas
for the carriage of liquid gases and built to the requirements of Part 5, SVR 5-8-1/1.1.1
Carrier
Chapter 8.
This notation is to be assigned to vessels designed and primarily fitted

Vehicle Carrier for carriage of vehicles and built to the requirements of Part 5, Chapter SVR 5-10-1/1.1.1
10 of SVR.
This notation is to be assigned to vessels designed and primarily fitted

Vehicle
for carriage of both passengers and vehicles and built to the SVR 5-10-1/1.1.2
Passenger Ferry
requirements of Part 5, Chapter 10 of SVR.
This notation is to be assigned to vessels designed and specifically fitted SVR 5-10-1/1.1.2
Passenger Vessel
for the carriage of passengers. [more than twelve (12) passengers] & 5-7-1/1.1


This notation is to be assigned to vessels designed and built to the
requirements of Section 5/14 of SVR (L < 90 m). Escort vessels are
SVR (L < 90 m)
Escort Vessel intended to provide assistance to disabled vessels in emergencies
5/14.1.3
involving impaired maneuverability due to loss of propulsion or steering
or both.
This notation for High Speed Craft is to be assigned to the following

craft designed and built to the requirements of HSC Guide. (i.e. À A1
HSC, À AMS, etc. )
HSC - Mono-hull Length of Vessel (L) < 130 m (427 ft.) HSC 1-1-3/1
- Multi-hull L < 100 m (328 ft.)
- Surface Effects Ship (SES) L < 90 m (295 ft.)
- Hydro Foil L < 60m (197 ft.)
This notation is to be assigned to high speed craft complying with HSC

HSC Passenger
Guide and IMO HSC Code for category (A) passenger craft. HSC 1-1-3/3
Craft (A)
(Refer to IMO HSC Code 1.4.10)
This notation is assigned to vessels which are intended to carry motor

HSC Ro-Ro
vehicles in addition to passengers (see 5/1.23 of the HSC Guide) and
Passenger Craft HSC 1-1-3/3
complying with HSC Guide and IMO HSC Code for category (A)
(A)
passenger craft.
HSC Ro-Ro This notation is assigned to HSC Ro-Ro vessels complying with HSC
Passenger Craft Guide and IMO HSC Code for category (B) passenger craft. HSC 1-1-3/3
(B) (Refer to IMO HSC Code 1.4.11)
This notation is assigned to vessels built in accordance to the

requirements of the Guide for Building and Classing SWATH Vessels, SWATH Guide
Swath Vessel
and which are approved by the Committee for unrestricted ocean service 1-3/3
at the assigned freeboards.
This notation is to be assigned to vessels with water spray protection for

cooling the Fire Fighting Vessel's surface to enable close operation for
Fire Fighting SVR (L < 90m)
early stages of fire fighting and rescue operations. Vessels must have a
Vessel Class 1 5/9.1
degree of protection against external fires comprised of two (2) water
monitors capable of discharging at 1200 m3/hour.
This notation is to be assigned to vessels build in accordance with the

Rules and are being capable of fighting continuously, large fires and has
Fire Fighting the ability to maintain station while fire-fighting monitors are in full SVR (L < 90m)
Vessel Class 2 operation. Vessels are provided with three (3) foam monitors capable of 5/9.1
discharging 2400 m3/hour or four (4) water monitors, capable of
discharging 1800 m3/hour, plus foam generators.
Fire Fighting Defined as above but are provided with four (4) foam monitors, capable SVR (L < 90m)
Vessel Class 3 of discharging 2400 m3/hour, plus foam generators. 5/9.1
Fire Fighting
SVR (L < 90m)
Vessel Class 1 Defined as above (provided with water and foam).
5/9.1
and Class 2
Fire Fighting
SVR (L < 90m)
Vessel Class 1 Defined as above (provided with water and foam).
5/9.1
and Class 3


This notation is to be assigned to vessels built in accordance with the
Safety Standby SVR (L < 90m)
Rules and approved by Committee for safety standby service at the
Service Vessel 5/12.1
assigned freeboard.
This notation is to be assigned to vessels built in accordance with the SVR (L < 90m)
Fishing Vessel
Rules and approved by Committee for unrestricted service 5/15.1.1
1.11.2 of the
This notation is assigned to barges built in accordance with the Rules Rules for Building
Barge
and intended to carry variety of cargoes as stated by the Rules. and Classing Steel
Barges
1/3.1.3 of the
This notation is assigned to a steel barge carried aboard a vessel that has Rules for Building
LASH Barge
no loadline certificate. and Classing Steel
Barges
1.1 of the Rules

This notation is to be assigned a floating dry dock over 61 m (200 ft.) in for Building and
Floating Dry Dock length built under the supervision of ABS surveyors for compliance Classing Steel
with the requirements of the Rules. Floating Dry
Docks
Offshore Support This notation is to be assigned vessels designed for support service to SVR (L < 90m)
Vessel offshore installations and built to the requirements of Section 5/10. 5/10.1
Offshore Support This notation is to be assigned to offshore supporting vessels having SVR (L < 90m)
Vessel, AH functional equipment for Anchor Handling. 5/10.1.
Offshore Support This notation is to be assigned to offshore supporting vessels having SVR (L < 90m)
Vessel, WS functional equipment for Well Stimulation. 5/10.1.1
3/1.3.1 of the
This notation is assigned to units having a hull with sufficient buoyancy
Rules for Building
Self Elevating to transport the unit to the desired location, to raise the hull to a pre-
and Classing
Drilling Unit determined elevation above the sea surface with its legs supported at the
Mobile Offshore
seabed.
Drilling Units
3/1.3.2 of the
This notation is assigned to units that depend upon the buoyancy of Rules for Building
Column-Stabilized
columns for floatation and stability for all afloat modes of operation or and Classing
Drilling Unit
raising and lowering the unit. Mobile Offshore
Drilling Units
1/1.3(c) of the
Rules for Building
Surface Type This notation is to be assigned to ship type, displacement hull offshore
and Classing
Drilling Unit drilling units equipped with propulsion machinery.
Mobile Offshore
Drilling Units
1/1.3.1 of the
The notation is assigned to a system which permits a vessel to
Rules for Rules
Single Point weathervane while the vessel is moored to a fixed or floating structure
for Building and
Mooring anchored to the sea bed by a rigid or an articulated structural system or
Classing Single
by catenary spread mooring.
Point Moorings


1/1.3.1 of the
This notation is assigned to offshore installations that are generally Rules for Building
intended to remain at a particular site on offshore facilities. These may and Classing of
be buoyant or non-buoyant structure supported or attached to the Offshore
Offshore seabed. These installation consist of one or more of: Platform; Installations and
Installation - Undersea Pipeline Systems and Risers; Offshore Facilities. 1.1.7 of the Guide
Undersea Pipeline for Building and
(The notation will include the following type of platforms: Pile Support Classing
Platform, Gravity Structure, Compliant Tower, Articulated Buoyant Undersea Pipeline
Tower, Tension Leg Platform) Systems and
Risers
FPSO -
1-3/1 of the Guide
Floating This notation is assigned to cover the hull structure of ship type
for Building and
Production, displacement hull designed, (and other hull configurations), equipment,
Classing Floating
Storage and and the marine machinery, position mooring system, and production
Production
Offloading facility.
Installations
System
FPS - 1-3/1 of the Guide

This notation is assigned to cover the hull structure of ship type
Floating for Building and
displacement hull designed, (and other hull configurations), equipment,
Production (and Classing Floating
and the marine machinery, position mooring system, and production
Offloading) Production
facility.
System Installations
1-3/1 of the Guide

FSO - This notation is assigned to cover the hull structure of ship type
for Building and
Floating Storage displacement hull designed, (and other hull configurations), equipment,
Classing Floating
and Offloading and the marine machinery, position mooring system, and production
Production
System facility.
Installations
1-3/1 of the Guide

This notation is assigned to cover the hull structure of ship type
FOI - for Building and
displacement hull designed, (and other hull configurations), equipment,
Floating Offshore Classing Floating
marine machinery, and position mooring system but the production
Installation Production
facility is excluded.
Installations

SVR (L < 90m): Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels Under 90 m (295 ft) in Length

TABLE C
Geographical Limitations
Limited Area
DESCRIPTION REFERENCE
(as an example)
This notation for service limitations is to be assigned to vessels, which
have been built to the satisfaction of Surveyors to the Bureau to special SVR 1-1-3/7,
(Indicate specific modified requirements for restricted service, which approved by the SVR(L<90m)
operational area) ABS Classification Committee for the particular service. (e.g. Gulf of 1/1.3.4 &
Mexico, Philippine Inter-Island Service, Coastal Service Less HSC 1-1-3/7.1
than 25 Miles, etc.)
This notation is assigned to HSC vessels to define the limit of area of

Harbor Service HSC 1-1-3/7.1
service for vessels that comply with the HSC Guide.
This notation is assigned to Great Lakes vessels of bulk carrier type,

having machinery aft, at least one complete deck, a double bottom and
Great Lakes
side tanks, a longitudinal system of framing for the deck and bottom, GLR 1.2
Service
and two continuous longitudinal bulkheads fitted between the freeboard
deck and the bottom shell.
Intended for
This notation is assigned to vessels built to SVR (L < 90 m), and limited SVR (L < 90m)
Service in
to domestic service waters. 5/A.1
Domestic Waters
This notation is assigned to vessels (towing vessels, oil tank barges,

RR 1/1.3.2 &
River Service barges, passenger vessels, chemical tank barges, etc.) in compliance
3/7.2
with SVR for River and Intracoastal Waterways.

GLR: Rules for Building and Classing Bulk Carriers for Service on the Great Lakes
RR: Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels for Service on Rivers and Intracoastal Waterways

TABLE D
Systems and Special Services
NOTATION DESCRIPTION REFERENCE
SVR 1-1-3/13
This notation is assigned to machinery and boilers constructed and SVR (L<90m)
À AMS
installed to ABS Rules requirements. 1/1.3.7
HSC 1-1-3/13
SVR 1-1-3/15
This notation is assigned to machinery and boilers that have not been
SVR (L<90m)
AMS constructed and installed under survey by the Bureau, but found
1/1.3.7
satisfactory with ABS Rules requirements.
HSC 1-1-3/15
A3.1 of the Guide

This notation (Navigational Bridge Layout) is assigned to vessels
for Navigational
having bridges found to comply with the requirements in Parts A and B
NBL Bridge Design
of the Guide, as applicable, and which has been constructed and
and Equipment -
installed under survey by the Bureau.
Systems
A3.2 of the Guide

This notation (Navigational Bridge Layout and Equipment/Systems) is
for Navigational
assigned to vessels having bridges found to comply with the
NBLES Bridge Design
requirements in Parts A through D of the Guide, as applicable, and
and Equipment -
which has been constructed and installed under survey by the Bureau.
Systems
This notation (Navigational Integrated Bridge System) is assigned to A3.3 of the Guide
vessels which are fitted with an integrated bridges systems (IBS) for the for Navigational
NIBS navigational purpose, and are found to comply with the requirements in Bridge Design
Parts A through D of the Guide, and which has been constructed and and Equipment -
installed under survey by the Bureau. Systems
This is an optional notation assigned to sea going vessels to indicate the

arrangement and capability for One Man Bridge Operation. This OMBO Guide
OMBO notation is valid for existing vessels, which have the OMBO notation or (June 1992).
any new vessel under construction, for which the building contract A.1.1
between Owner and builder was signed before 1 January 2000.
This notation, where requested by the owner, is assigned to an Oil

CPP Carrier, to indicate that the all cargo piping and valve control piping are SVR 5-1-7/1.1.2
located above the double bottom.
These notations are assigned to an Oil Carrier to indicate that where a

VEC or VEC-L Cargo Vapor Emission Control system is installed, it has been designed SVR 5-1-7/1.1.2
in accordance with the Rules.
Automatic Centralized Control – This notation is assigned to a vessel

having the means to control and monitor the propulsion-machinery
À ACC SVR 4-9-3/1
space from a continuously manned centralized control and monitoring
station installed within or adjacent to, the propulsion machinery space.
Automatic Centralized Control Unmanned – This notation is assigned

to a vessel having the means to control and monitor the propulsion-
À ACCU machinery space from the navigation bridge and from a centralized SVR 4-9-4/9
control and monitoring station installed within or adjacent to, the
propulsion machinery space.


Environmental Green Ship – This notation is assigned to a vessel
complying with requirements as outlined in the Section 7-1 of the Guide 7-1 of the Guide
for Vessels Intended to Carry Passengers. Vessels in full compliance for Vessels
EGS
with the subject requirements are assigned with EGS notation in Intended to Carry
recognition of environmental considerations incorporated into the Passengers
design and operation of the vessels.
These notations are assigned to a self-propelled (or non-self-propelled)

À DPS-0
vessel fitted with a system of thrusters, positioning instruments and
À DPS-1
controls systems to enable the vessel to maintain a desired position at SVR 4-3-5/1.3.3
À DPS-2
sea without external aid. The assigned numeral 0, 1, 2 or 3 indicates the
À DPS-3
degree of redundancy.
This notation is assigned to a self-propelled vessel fitted with

À APS SVR 4-3-5/1.3.5
athwarthship thrusters intended to assist in maneuvering of the vessel.
(This notation is assigned to non-self-propelled vessels fitted with

(À PAS) SVR 4-3-5/1.3.5
thrusters to assist in the maneuvering or propelling while under tow.)
Ice Class A0, B0 These ice class notations are assigned to self-propelled vessels to
SVR 6-1-1/3.1
C0 & D0 indicate suitability of operation in first-year ice.
(Ice Class A0, B0 (These ice-strengthening notations may also be assigned to barges
SVR 6-1-1/33
C0 & D0) designed for being towed and/or pushed in broken ice.)
These are the Baltic ice strengthening notation and assigned to vessels
Ice Strengthening
designed to Finish-Swedish Ice Class Rules and are I AA, I A, I B and SVR 6-1-2/3.1
I AA, I A, I B, & I C
I C.
2.1.1 of the Guide

This notation and the appropriate description of “Green Seas Warning”
for Hull Condition
HM1 is assigned to a vessel having hull condition monitoring systems for the
Monitoring
purpose of motion monitoring.
Systems
2.3.1 of the Guide

This notation and the appropriate description of “Hull Girder Stress”
for Hull Condition
HM2 will be assigned to a vessel having a stress monitoring system. The
Monitoring
system may include local stress and fatigue monitoring system.
Systems
2.5.1 of the Guide

This notation and the appropriate description of “Full VDM” will be for Hull Condition
HM3
assigned to a vessel having a Voyage Data Monitoring system. Monitoring
Systems
2.5.1 of the Guide

This is in additional to HM1, HM2 or HM3 symbols and is assigned to a for Hull Condition
+R
vessel that has provisions for recording data for later evaluation. Monitoring
Systems
§5 of the Guide
This is an optional notation assigned to a vessel fitted with multiple
R1 for Propulsion
propulsion machines but only a single propulsor and steering system.
Redundancy
§5 of the Guide
R2 for Propulsion
propulsion machines and also multiple propulsors and steering system.
Redundancy


This is an optional notation assigned to a vessel fitted with only single
§5 of the Guide
propulsor but having the propulsion machinery arranged in separate
R1-S for Propulsion
spaces such that a fire or flood in one space will not effect the
Redundancy
propulsion machinery in the other space.

machines and propulsors, and associated steering systems arrangement §5 of the Guide
R2-S in separate spaces such that a fire or flood in one space will not effect for Propulsion
the propulsion machine(s) and propulsor(s), and associated steering Redundancy
systems in the other space.
+ This notation signifies that the redundant propulsion is capable of §5 of the Guide
affixed to
maintaining position under adverse weather conditions to avoid for Propulsion
R1, R2, R1-S &
uncontrolled drift. Redundancy
R2-S
À RCC
This notation is assigned to vessels designed for the carriage of
(Refrigerated SVR 6-2-1/7.1.1
refrigerated cargoes.
Cargo Carrier)
RC(Hold No…)
(Refrigerated This notation is assigned to vessels where some holds are provided with
SVR 6-2-1/7.1.2
Cargo Carrier – the facility to carry refrigerated cargoes.
Some Holds Only)
À RCCC This notation is assigned to vessels designed to carry cargoes in

(Refrigerated refrigerated containers, individually cooled by shipboard refrigerated
SVR 6-2-1/7.1.3
Cargo Container machinery and the associated systems, and where fitted, the temperature
Carrier) monitoring and control system.
À REBLT Refrigerated Edible Bulk Liquid Tanker notation is assigned to vessels

(Refrigerated where edible products are carried in bulk in refrigerated cargo tanks
SVR 6-2-1/7.1.5
Edible Bulk Liquid cooled by their own shipboard refrigeration machinery and associated
Tanker) systems.
Controlled Atmosphere notation is to be assigned to refrigerated cargo

À CA vessels with equipment and systems fitted for supplying Nitrogen or SVR 6-2-1/9.1
equivalent gas to cargo holds including the associated safety features.
Controlled Atmosphere Installation notation is to be assigned to

refrigerated cargo vessels fitted with permanently installed piping
À CA(INST) SVR 6-2-1/9.3
system which is ready for connection to a portable controlled
atmosphere generating equipment.
This notation is to be assigned to refrigerated cargo vessels fitted with a

system for automatic cargo loading and unloading to and from
À APLUS SVR 6-2-1/9.5
refrigerated hold through an automatic pallet handling, stack and
security system together with a monitoring and control system.
These notations are designated to refrigerated cargo vessel fitted with a

À ASLS
system whereby the cargo is loaded and unloaded from refrigerated hold
or SVR 6-2-1/9.7
spaces through an automatic or semiautomatic side-loading pallet
À SASLS
handling system together with monitoring and controlling system.
This notation is assigned to refrigerated cargo vessel suitably designed

(F) to carry fruit in hold spaces cargo or containers intended for the carriage SVR 6-2-1/9.9
of fruit.


This notation, Automatic Bridge Centralized Control Unmanned is
assigned to a vessel capable of operating as ACCU classed vessel, but
because of its compact, the propulsion machinery space is not fitted SVR (L < 90m)
À ABCU
with means to control the propulsion and its associated machinery from 4/11.1.2.a.2
a centralized control and monitoring station installed within or adjacent
to the propulsion machinery space.
1.17 of the Guide

Crane Register Certificate notation signifies that the vessel’s cranes are
CRC for Certification
designed and constructed to ABS Guide for Certification of Cranes.
of Cranes
1.23 of the Guide

This notation is assigned to vessels complying with the ABS Guide for
for Certification
CSC Certification of Container Security Systems. Note will be assigned with
of Container
this notation in column 5 of the ABS Record.
Security Systems
GR A - (N) This notation is assigned to safety standby vessels, indicating the class
SVR (L < 90m)
GR B - (N) designation together with the number of survivors (N), the vessel has
4/12.1
GR C - (N) been certified to accommodate.
Side Trawl This notation is assigned to fishing vessels, describing the vessel as SVR (L < 90m)
Stern Trawl applicable. 4/15.114
This notation is assigned to fishing vessels, indicating the vessel has

Torremolinos SVR (L < 90m)
been found in compliance with the provisions of the International
Convention 4/15.1.4
Conference on Safety of Fishing Vessels 1977/1993 Protocol.
The notation is assigned to self propelled motor pleasure craft up to 61m

Yachting Service that which do not required to be assigned a load line and comply with MPY 1.21.1
Motor Pleasure Yachts Guide (MPY).
These notations are to be assigned for manned or occasionally manned

Submersible,
underwater vehicles, underwater facilities hyperbaric facilities and
Personnel 1.21.1, 1.21.3 &
diving simulators which have been built to the satisfaction of ABS
Capsule, 2.1 to 2.59 of the
surveyors to the full requirements of UWVSHF Rules, or their
Diving Bell, Rules for
equivalent, where approved by the ABS Classification Committee for
Habitat, etc. Underwater
the service.
Vehicles, Systems
and Hyperbaric
(These notations are to be assigned for manned or occasionally manned Facilities
(Diving System,
components meet the requirements of UWVSHF Rules and all other (UWVSHF)
Underwater-
components are certified by ABS and are in full compliance with the
Complex)
UWVSHF Rules.)
1-3/5.1 of the
This notation is assigned to a floating installation system that has a
Guide for
propulsion system and a means of disengaging the vessel from its
Building and
(Disconnectable) mooring and riser systems to allow the vessel to ride out severe weather
Classing Floating
or seek refuge under its own power for a specified design environmental
Production
condition.
Installations


This non-mandatory notation is assigned to indicate that Drilling
1.5 of the Guide
systems & equipment comply with the ABS Guide for the Certification
À CDS for the
of Drilling Systems. The letter (N) indicate that the drilling system is in
À CDS (N) Certification of
compliance with the requirement of the main body and Appendix B of
Drilling Systems
the Guide

MPY: Motor Pleasure Yachts Guide

TABLE E
Design Criteria
This notation, SafeHull, is assigned to Oil Carriers, Bulk Carriers and
Container vessels designed to Part 5 Chapters 1, 3 and 5. The SH
Notation applies to Container Vessels over 130 m and Bulk Carriers &
Oil Carriers over 150 m in length. The requirements of these
portions of the Rules are collectively referred to as the SafeHull
Criteria. Although these Rules contain a simplified approach to
dynamic-based engineering evaluations, the ABS SafeHull
computer software system has been developed to perform the SVR 1-1-3/21,
required calculations in the SafeHull Criteria. The SafeHull SVR 5-1-1/1.1,
software system is available through ABS plan approval offices. SVR 5-3-1/1.1,
SVR 5-5-1/1.1 &
The SafeHull Criteria is further broken down to two distinct parts 1-3/5.9 of the
SH
as follows, both parts are to be applied in order to receive the SH Guide for
notation. Building and
Classing Floating
Section 4 (Phase A): Specifies the initial minimum strength Production
requirements for hull structure with Installations
respect to the determination of initial
scantlings.
Section 5 (Phase B): Assesses the adequacy of the structural
configuration and the initial scantlings
determined in Section 4 using finite
element method (FEM) analysis.
This notation is assigned to vessels built to the Rules of another

recognized classification society, and the plans have been reviewed to
SHR SVR 1-1-4/3.5
the SafeHull Phase A requirements in Section 5-1-4 for tankers, Section
5-3-4 for bulk carriers or Chapter 5-4 for container carriers.
SVR 1-1-3/19 &

SVR (L< 90m)
This notation, Dynamic Loading Approach, is assigned to vessels which 1/1.3.10 &
have been built to plans reviewed in accordance with an acceptable 1-3/5.7 of the
SH-DLA procedure and criteria for calculating and evaluating the behavior of hull Guide for
structures under dynamic loading conditions, in addition to full Building and
compliance with the other requirements of the Rules. Classing Floating
Production
Installation
This notation is assigned to vessels, where Spectral Fatigue Analysis is 1-3/5.11 of the
performed in accordance with the criteria established by Guide and the Guide for
ABS Spectral Fatigue Procedure for Ship-shaped FPSOs. The notation Building and
SFA
SFA will be followed by the design project fatigue life in years, i.e., Classing Floating
SFA(N), if the design project life is greater than the minimum required Production
20 years. Installation
This notation is assigned to bulk carriers in which the inner-bottom has SVR
GRAB
been designed for a specific grab weight. 5-3-4/7.3.2(b)


This notation is assigned to all bulk or combination carriers in which
hatch covers of cargo holds located forward of 0.25L from the forward
HCS SVR 5-3-6/15
perpendicular are designed for compliance with the requirements of
SVR 5-3-6/15.
1.0 of the Guide

This notation is assigned to oil carriers, bulk carriers or container for the Assessing
carriers which have been built in accordance with the procedure and Hull-Girder
RES
criteria for calculating and evaluating the residual strength of hull Residual Strength
structures. for Tankers and
Bulk Carriers


TABLE F
Survey
This notation, Special Annual Survey, is assigned to vessels designed on
a unique experimental basis and may have lesser scantlings than Column 8 of
required by the current ABS Rules/Guides (e.g. very lightweight high- “Explanation of
SAS speed craft). All the requirements of Special Periodical Survey of Hull, certain entries in
except the tank testing, are required each year for the first three years of the Record” in the
each cycle. At the 4th year, a complete Special Survey is required. Record Book.
(Contact ABS office for further details of application)
This notation, Enhanced Survey Program, in column 5 of the ABS

Record is assigned to Oil Carriers, Bulk Carriers, Ore Carriers,
Section 7-2-1/1 of
ESP Combination Carriers or Chemical Tankers, all in salt-water services,
SVR
that are in compliance with Appendix 7-2-A1, 7-2-A2 or 7-2-A3,
whichever is applicable.
Record: ABS Record book


PART
1
Classification
APPENDIX 3 ABS Type Approval Program
CONTENTS
1 General................................................................................... 61
3 Limitations ............................................................................. 62
5 Administration ....................................................................... 62
5.1 Product Design Assessment .................................................. 62
5.3 Product Quality Assurance Assessment ................................ 62
5.5 Product Quality Assurance Certification................................. 63
5.7 Certificates.............................................................................. 63
5.9 Suspension of Certification..................................................... 64
FIGURE 1 Administration of the Type Approval Program ........ 65

PART
1
Classification
APPENDIX 3 ABS Type Approval Program 1 - 1 - A 3
1 General 1-1-A3/1
The Type Approval Program is made up of two components, which are Product Design Assessment
and Product Quality Assurance Assessment:
Product Design Assessment; which is approval of the product design, consists of:
i) Design evaluation, and
ii) Survey and/or testing of a prototype or a production unit (as appropriate)
Product Quality Assurance Assessment; which is approval of the manufacturer, consists of:
i) Evaluating the quality system of the manufacturing facilities in order to assess their capability
to meet the manufacturer’s specified level of product quality consistently, and satisfy the
requirements of the Rules as applicable.
ii) Evaluating the manufacturing process of the manufacturer in order to assess that products and
inspections are established to provide the manufacturer’s specified level of quality control,
and to satisfy the requirements of the Rules.
The Product Design Assessment portion of the Type Approval Program may be applied individually
or in conjunction with the Product Quality Assurance Assessment portion of the program. The
application of the Product Quality Assurance Assessment portion can be done only in conjunction
with the Product Design Assessment.
The purposes of the Type Approval Program are threefold:
i) To avoid repeated evaluation of identical designs,
ii) To allow acceptance of the product based on periodic surveillance of the manufacturer’s
quality assurance program and, where applicable, selective inspection and tests in lieu of
surveying and testing individual units at the manufacturer’s facility, and
iii) Publishing a list of these approvals so that the information can be made available to the
industry.

Appendix 3 ABS Type Approval Program 1-1-A3
3 Limitations 1-1-A3/3
The application of the Type Approval Program to a specific product is at the discretion of the Bureau.
Those products that may not be certified under the type approval program are identified in the
appropriate sections of the Rules. For reference purposes, Tables 1 through 6 of Part 4 Chapter 1
Section 1 of the Rules, contain examples of the limitations of the program for machinery and
equipment.
Products for which the Rules specifically require witnessed testing by a Surveyor, as part of their
certification for use on a vessel, MODU, or facility Classed by ABS will continue to require
witnessed testing.
5 Administration 1-1-A3/5
Administration of the Type Approval Program is shown schematically in 1-1-A3/Figure 1.
5.1 Product Design Assessment 1-1-A3/5.1
5.1.1 Design Evaluation 1-1-A3/5.1.1

Plans showing details of construction, and documentation such as product specifications,
performance data, standard of compliance, engineering analyses, etc., as applicable, are to be
submitted for review. The design will be reviewed for compliance with applicable
requirements of the Rules or an alternative standard of compliance as may be permitted by the
Rules. Products for which there are no specific standards in the Rules may be evaluated
based on applicable industry standards or, in the absence of applicable Rules or industry
criteria, the manufacturer’s standard or specifications and/or engineering analyses. The basis
of design evaluation will be stated in the Bureau’s documentation concerning the product.
The design assessment is intended to fulfill the requirements of the first element of the Type
Approval Program as described in 1-1-A3/1. It is the first step in determining that, provided
all other Rule requirements are complied with, and subject to completion of manufacture and
testing to the satisfaction of the attending Surveyor, the product may be used on board a
vessel, MODU, or a facility Classed by ABS.
5.1.2 Survey and/or Testing of Prototype or Production Units 1-1-A3/5.1.2

Where applicable, and as deemed necessary for the evaluation process, the manufacturer is to
carry out performance, non-destructive, destructive, environmental, or other tests on the
product as may be specified in the Rules, in the standard of compliance, or in the
manufacturer’s specifications in the presence of a Surveyor. If the required testing has been
or is done in a recognized independent testing facility that is acceptable to ABS, consideration
will be given to acceptance of test results obtained without a Surveyor present.
5.1.3 Product Design Assessment Certificate 1-1-A3/5.1.3

Products evaluated in accordance with 1-1-A3/5.1.1 and 1-1-A3/5.1.2 and found to be in
conformance with the applicable provisions of the Rules, standards, or specifications will be
issued a Product Design Assessment Certificate. Products so approved will be eligible for
listing in the Bureau’s publications and website as ABS approved product designs.
5.3 Product Quality Assurance Assessment 1-1-A3/5.3
5.3.1 Quality Assurance Standard 1-1-A3/5.3.1

The manufacturer is to have in place an effective quality assurance system that will be
evaluated by Surveyors for essential compliance with a recognized quality standard, such as
the ISO 9000 series, or equivalent. The evaluation will involve initial, periodic, and renewal
audits of the quality system, in accordance with the provisions of the applicable quality

assurance standard, and may involve more frequent surveillance as considered necessary by
the attending Surveyor.
5.3.2 Quality Control 1-1-A3/5.3.2

Typical quality plans describing methods of assuring and controlling quality during
production as may be required by the product specifications or standard of compliance will be
subject to evaluation by the Bureau. In particular, quality plans are to reflect specific surveys,
tests, etc. required by the Rules. The manufacturer is to present a sample or specimen of the
product, representative of the “type” to be approved, to the Surveyor for the purpose of
verifying that the “type” has been manufactured in conformance with the design documents.
5.3.3 Product Type Approval Certificate 1-1-A3/5.3.3

Manufacturing facilities that are audited in accordance with 1-1-A3/5.3.1 and 1-1-A3/5.3.2
and are found to:
i) have undergone a satisfactory product design evaluation, and
ii) comply with a quality assurance standard, and
iii) have manufacturing quality control that meets the applicable provisions of the Rules,
or of the applicable product standard, or the manufacturer’s specifications,
will be issued with a Product Type Approval Certificate. Manufacturers so assessed will be
eligible for listing in the Bureau’s publications and website.
5.5 Product Quality Assurance Certification 1-1-A3/5.5

A Product Quality Assurance Certificate will be issued at the request of a manufacturer who has been
previously issued a Product Type Approval Certificate as described in section 1-1-A3/5.3.3 of the
Rules and who also operates a quality assurance system certified by an internationally recognized
accreditation body as complying with a recognized quality standard, such as the ISO 9000 series, or
equivalent. The quality system is to be under certified the standard. The certification will provide an
alternative to the requirements for witnessed testing by a Surveyor. This is not a relaxation of the
Rule requirement for testing, but rather allows such testing to be conducted without a Surveyor being
present. The Bureau will reserve the right to conduct unscheduled surveillance surveys. Products
requiring certification for use on a vessel, MODU, or facility classed with ABS will be certified by the
ABS office having jurisdiction over the manufacturer. The manufacturer will be responsible to advise
the ABS office of deliveries of products and to supply the ABS office with all documentation required
for certification of the product. Manufacturers receiving a product Quality Assurance Certificate will
be eligible for listing in the Bureau’s publications and website (http://www.eagle.org/typeapproval).
5.7 Certificates 1-1-A3/5.7
5.7.1 Validity 1-1-A3/5.7.1

The validity period of the certificates indicated in 1-1-A3/5.1.3, 1-1-A3/5.3.3, and 1-1-A3/5.5
shall be five years from the date of issuance or until the Rule or standard used in the
evaluation is revised (whichever occurs first). At any time, where there is a change in the
design of the product, or a change to the applicable standards, it is the responsibility of the
manufacturer to submit such design changes to the Bureau with an application either for
incorporation of the change for record purposes, or for re-assessment of the product, as the
case may be. Any failure to notify the Bureau about a design change shall invalidate the
certificate.
When the product is used on board a vessel or an offshore unit, it is to comply with the Rules
applicable to the vessel or unit as determined by the contract signing date.

5.7.2 Renewal 1-1-A3/5.7.2

For renewal of certificates, the manufacturer is to inform the Bureau of any change to the
product design, and the following are to be conducted, as appropriate:
i) Re-evaluate the product design in accordance with 1-1-A3/5.1, if there is a design or
specification change or a change to the applicable Rules or standards; and
ii) Re-audit the quality plan in accordance with 1-1-A3/5.3.2; and
iii) Verify by survey that a valid quality assurance system has been maintained in
accordance with 1-1-A3/5.3.1 or 1-1-A3/5.5.
5.9 Suspension of Certification 1-1-A3/5.9

Unless the change is submitted to ABS for a new evaluation and audit, any of the following will cause
immediate suspension of the Certificate of Product Evaluation or Product Type Approval.
i) Redesign of the product or products covered by the certificate;
ii) Change in production methods;
iii) Substantial change in management organization;
iv) Substantial change in frequency or curriculum for personnel training;
v) Refusing access to ABS personnel for periodic or renewal audits;
vi) Failure to correct a non-compliance identified during an audit;
vii) Failure to pay ABS fees.
Products requiring witnessed testing by a Surveyor as part of their certification for use on a vessel,
MODU, or facility Classed by ABS, as defined in the applicable section of the Rules, will continue to
require witnessed testing.

FIGURE 1
Administration of the Type Approval Program
Type Approval Program

1-1-A3/1
Production Production
Assessment
Design Assessment Quality Assurance Assessment
1-1-A3/5 1-1-A3/5.3
or
Design Prototype Manufacturing Manufacturer's Manufacturer's

Evaluation Examination Facility Certified Facilities and Documentation
1-1-A3/5.1.1 and/ and/or to a Quality and/ Quality Plan of Product
Process or Prototype Test Standard or Audited for Quality
1-1-A3/5.1.2 1-1-A3/5.3.1 Product-specified 1-1-A3/5.3.2
Requirements
1-1-A3/5.3.3
Product Design Assessed Product Quality Assurance Assessment
Product Design Assessment Certificate Quality Assurance Assessment Certificate

1-1-A3/5.1.3 1-1-A3/5.5
Certificate
Type Approval Certificate

1-1-A3/5.7

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RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING

American Bureau of Shipping

Appendix 1 Load Line Marks .............................................. 41

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS 2001 i

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS 2001 1

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

2 ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS 2001

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS 2001 3

1 Process (1 Jan. ’96) 1-1-1/1

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

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS 2001 5

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

7 Scope of Classification 1-1-1/7

6 ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS 2001

SECTION 2 Suspension and Cancellation

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS 2001 7

SECTION 2 Suspension and Cancellation of

3 Notice of Surveys 1-1-2/3

5 Special Notations 1-1-2/5

7 Suspension of Class 1-1-2/7

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS 2001 9

10 ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS 2001

9 Lifting of Suspension 1-1-1/9

11 Cancellation of Class 1-1-2/11

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

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS 2001 11

SECTION 3 Classification Symbols and

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS 2001 13

SECTION 3 Classification Symbols and

1 Unrestricted Service 1-1-3/1

3 Special Rules 1-1-3/3

5 Special Purpose Vessels 1-1-3/5

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS 2001 15

7 Geographical Limitations 1-1-3/7

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

11 Equipment Symbol 1-1-3/11

13 À AMS Symbols 1-1-3/13

15 AMS Symbols 1-1-3/15

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

16 ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS 2001

19 Dynamic Loading Approach 1-1-3/19

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

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

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

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS 2001 17

SECTION 4 Rules for Classification

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS 2001 19

SECTION 4 Rules for Classification 1 - 1 - 4

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

3.1 General 1-1-4/3.1

3.3 National Regulations 1-1-4/3.3

3.5 Other Rules 1-1-4/3.5

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS 2001 21

3.7 ABS Type Approval Program 1-1-4/3.7

5 Novel Features 1-1-4/5

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

7.1 Effective Date 1-1-4/7.1

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

22 ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS 2001

SECTION 5 Other Regulations 1 - 1 - 5