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RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING

STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET)


IN LENGTH
2001

PART 5
SPECIALIZED VESSELS AND SERVICES

American Bureau of Shipping


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

Copyright  2001
American Bureau of Shipping
ABS Plaza
16855 Northchase Drive
Houston, TX 77060 USA
PART

Foreword
This book, Part 5 – “Specialized Vessels and Services”, specifies the requirements for each vessel
intended to operate for special service.
Since the requirements for the following seven types of vessel are identical to those requirements in
the Rules for Building and classing Steel Vessels, the following cross-reference table is provided,
instead of duplication of the text herein:

Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels Under 90 meters Applicable Chapter(s) of the
(295 feet) in Length Rules for Building and
Chapter Title Classing Steel Vessels
Chapter 1 Vessels Intended for Navigation in Ice Part 6, Chapter 1
Chapter 2 Vessels Intended to Carry Oil in Bulk Part 5, Chapter 2
Chapter 3 Vessels Intended to Carry Ore or Bulk Cargoes Part 5, Chapter 4
Chapter 4 Vessels Intended to Carry Liquefied Gases and Part 5, Chapters 8 & 9
Chemical Cargoes
Chapter 5 Vessels Intended to Carry Passengers Part 5, Chapter 7
Chapter 6 Vessels Intended to Carry Containers Part 5, Chapter 6
Chapter 7 Vessels Intended to Carry Vehicles Part 5, Chapter 10

The requirements for all other unique vessel types are specified in this booklet.

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001 i
PART

5
Specialized Vessels and Services

CONTENTS
CHAPTER 8 Vessels Intended for Towing.................................... 1
Section 1 General .............................................................. 3
Section 2 Stability .............................................................. 5
Section 3 Towing Gear ...................................................... 7
Section 4 Vessel Design.................................................... 9
Section 5 Equipment........................................................ 11
Section 6 Test for Optional Items .................................... 13
Section 7 Surveys ............................................................ 15

Appendix 1 Intact Stability Guidelines for Towing


Vessels ............................................................ 17
Appendix 2 Guidelines for Bollard Pull Test Procedure...... 21
CHAPTER 9 Fire Fighting Vessels .............................................. 23
Section 1 General ............................................................ 25
Section 2 Plans and Calculations .................................... 27
Section 3 Seakeeping...................................................... 29
Section 4 Fire Fighting Systems ...................................... 31
Section 5 Fixed Water-spray System .............................. 35
Section 6 Special Equipment........................................... 37
Section 7 Structural Fire Protection ................................. 39
Section 8 Surveys ............................................................ 41
CHAPTER 10 Vessels Intended for Support Services to
Offshore Installations ............................................. 43
Section 1 General ............................................................ 45
Section 2 Stability ............................................................ 47
Section 3 Vessel Design.................................................. 49
Section 4 Anchor Handling .............................................. 53
Section 5 Well Stimulation ............................................... 55
Section 6 Carriage of Limited Amounts of Hazardous
and Noxious Liquid Substances ...................... 57

Appendix 1 Intact Stability Guidelines for Offshore


Support Vessels............................................... 59

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001 iii
Appendix 2 Damage Stability Guidelines for Offshore
Support Vessels............................................... 63
CHAPTER 11 Oil Recovery Vessels ..............................................65
Section 1 General ............................................................ 67
Section 2 Definitions ........................................................ 69
Section 3 Hull Construction and Equipment .................... 71
Section 4 Machinery Equipment and Systems ................ 75
Section 5 Vessels Intended for Recovery of Oil with a
Flash Point Above 60°C (140°F) ..................... 83
CHAPTER 12 Safety Standby Service Vessels .............................85
Section 1 General ............................................................ 87
Section 2 Definitions ........................................................ 89
Section 3 General Requirements..................................... 91
Section 4 Accommodation for Survivors.......................... 95
Section 5 Rescue and Safety Equipment ........................ 99
Section 6 Navigation and Communication Equipment .. 103
Section 7 Surveys .......................................................... 105
CHAPTER 13 Escort Vessels .......................................................107
Section 1 General .......................................................... 109
Section 2 Plans and Data .............................................. 111
Section 3 Definitions ...................................................... 113
Section 4 Intact Stability................................................. 115
Section 5 Fire Fighting Capability .................................. 117
Section 6 Towing Gear .................................................. 119
Section 7 Vessel Design................................................ 121
Section 8 Verification of Steering Capability.................. 123
Section 9 Tests and Surveys ......................................... 125
CHAPTER 14 Fishing Vessels .....................................................127
Section 1 General .......................................................... 129
Section 2 Vessel Design................................................ 133
Section 3 Intact Stability................................................. 141
Section 4 Equipment...................................................... 159
Section 5 Machinery Equipment and Systems .............. 161
Section 6 Surveys .......................................................... 163

APPENDIX 1 Requirements for Building and Classing


Vessels Intended for Service in Domestic
Waters ....................................................................165

iv ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001
PART

5
CHAPTER 8 Vessels Intended for Towing

CONTENTS
SECTION 1 General ...................................................................... 3
1 Application................................................................ 3
3 Classification ............................................................ 3
5 Optional Record Entries ........................................... 3
7 Submission of Data .................................................. 4
9 Definitions................................................................. 4
SECTION 2 Stability...................................................................... 5
1 Intact Stability During Tow ....................................... 5
SECTION 3 Towing Gear .............................................................. 7
1 Arrangement............................................................. 7
3 Quick Release Device.............................................. 7
5 Strength.................................................................... 7
SECTION 4 Vessel Design............................................................ 9
1 Side Shell and Frames............................................. 9
3 After Deck................................................................. 9
5 Weather Deck Openings .......................................... 9
SECTION 5 Equipment ............................................................... 11
SECTION 6 Test for Optional Items ........................................... 13
1 Quick Release Test................................................ 13
3 Static Bollard Pull Test .......................................... 13
SECTION 7 Surveys.................................................................... 15

APPENDIX 1 Intact Stability Guidelines for Towing Vessels ..... 17


1 General................................................................... 17
3 Submission of Plans............................................... 17
5 Intact Stability Criteria ............................................ 17
7 Standard Loading Conditions................................. 18
9 Heeling Arm Curve ................................................. 19
11 Trim and Stability Booklet ...................................... 19
APPENDIX 2 Guidelines for Bollard Pull Test Procedure........... 21
1 General................................................................... 21
3 Steady Bollard Pull Test Requirements ................. 21

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001 1
PART

5
CHAPTER 8 Vessels Intended for Towing

SECTION 1 General

1 Application
The requirements in this section apply to vessels intended for unrestricted towing service.

3 Classification

3.1 Tugs
In accordance with 1-1-3/3, the classification À A1 Towing Vessel is to be assigned to vessels
designed primarily for towing service and built to the requirements of this section and other relevant
sections of the Rules.

3.1.1 Bollard Pull (2001)


The static bollard pull, determined by an approved bollard pull test in the presence of the
Surveyor, will be indicated in the Record. See 5-8-6/3.

3.3 Dual Purpose Vessels


Vessels intended for towing and other services, such as supplying stores to offshore units and
installations, may be classed À A1 Towing Vessel.
Alternatively, at the request of the Owner, these vessels may be classed À A1 with an appropriate
notation in column 5 of the Record, for example, Combination Tug & Support Vessel.
In both instances, the dual purpose vessel is to be designed and built to these requirements, in addition
to those as may be applicable for the particular services.

5 Optional Record Entries

5.1 Quick Release


At the request of the owner and where a remotely controlled quick release device is provided for the
towing hook or towing winch in accordance with 5-8-3/3, 5-8-3/5.3 and 5-8-6/1, the letters QR will
be entered in the column 5 of the Record.

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001 3
Part 5 Specialized Vessels and Services
Chapter 8 Vessels Intended for Towing
Section 1 General 5-8-1

7 Submission of Data
In general, in addition to the plans listed in 1-1-7/1 and 4-1-1/7 of the Rules, the following plans and
particulars are to be submitted.
Structural details and arrangements of the structures in way of the towing hook, towing
winch, or towing bollards, or bitts, towing guide rollers and fairleads.
Details of connections (See 5-8-3/5.7).
Braking power of winch.
(2001) Estimated static bollard pull, together with the method of prediction. (The estimated
value is to be confirmed at Trials prior to certification.)
Minimum specified breaking strength of towline.
Stability data and calculations.
(2001) Static Bollard Pull Test Procedure.

9 Definitions

9.1 Static Bollard Pull (2001)


Static bollard pull (BP) for use in 5-8-1/9.3 is the value submitted by the designer in accordance with
5-8-1/7.
Static bollard pull will be entered in the Record in accordance with 5-8-1/3.1. BP for use in 5-8-1/9.3
is to be taken as not less than the design value nor more than the value obtained by testing and
published in the Record. See 5-8-6/3.

9.3 Reference Load


Reference Load (RL) in the design and testing of towing gear is 2BP. For BP greater than
51 tf (50 Ltf) consideration will be given to a reduction in RL. For a BP of 51 tf (50 Ltf), RL is 2BP
and for a BP of 153 tf (150 Ltf) or more RL may be taken as 1.33BP, with interpolation for
intermediate values of BP.

4 ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001
PART

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CHAPTER 8 Vessels Intended for Towing

SECTION 2 Stability

1 Intact Stability During Tow


The intact stability of the vessel for towing operation is to comply with a recognized standard. The
submission of evidence showing approval by an Administration of stability of the vessel for the static
bollard pull (see 5-8-1/9.1) will be acceptable. Alternatively, upon request the review will be
performed by the Bureau. See Appendix 5-8-A1 for guidelines by the Bureau.

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PART

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CHAPTER 8 Vessels Intended for Towing

SECTION 3 Towing Gear

1 Arrangement
The towing hook, towing winch, towing bitt or towing bollard is to be located as low as is practicable,
and close to but abaft the center of gravity of the towing vessel in the expected towing condition.
Rollers or fairleads are to be arranged so as to contain the towline within the design limit of its sweep.
Effective means are to be provided to lead and restrain the towline over the stern of the towing vessel.

3 Quick Release Device


Where entry QR in column 5 of the Record is requested in accordance with 5-8-1/5.1, the quick
release device for the towing hook or towing winch is to be operable from the bridge or other
normally manned location in direct communication with the bridge. The quick release device is to
disengage the towline at any combination of expected trim and heel.

5 Strength

5.1 Towline
The breaking strength of towline is to be not less than the Reference Load (RL). See 5-8-1/9.3.

5.3 Towing Hook, Towing Winch, Towing Bollard and Towing Bitts
The towing hook, towing winch, towing bollard and towing bitt are to be capable of sustaining RL
without permanent deformation. These items are to comply with a recognized standard or code of
practice. Name plates indicating the names of standard, rated load, speed, mass, etc., will be
acceptable for that purpose. Other means for verifying compliance will also be considered.
The installation of these items are to be to the satisfaction of the Surveyor.

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001 7
Part 5 Specialized Vessels and Services
Chapter 8 Vessels Intended for Towing
Section 3 Towing Gear 5-8-3

5.5 Supporting Structures


The stresses in the structures supporting the items in 5-8-3/5.3 are not to exceed the following under a
pull of RL applied horizontally and within a range of 30 degrees from the centerline of the vessel on
each side.
Normal Stress = 0.75Y
Shear Stress = 0.45Y
where
Y = specified minimum tensile yield strength or yield point.
In addition, the buckling strength is to be adequate for the above loading.

5.7 Connections
The size and arrangement of holding down bolts and welds for towing hook or towing winch are to be
in accordance with a recognized standard.

8 ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001
PART

5
CHAPTER 8 Vessels Intended for Towing

SECTION 4 Vessel Design

1 Side Shell and Frames


For vessels subject to impact loadings during routines, it is recommended that side frames with
section modulus 25% greater than that obtained from 3-2-5/3.1, 3-2-5/5.1 or 3-2-5/5.3 be considered.
For side shell plating, see 3-2-2/5.3.

3 After Deck
Deck fittings within the sweep of towline are to be protected against contact by the towline and
against the towline fouling.

5 Weather Deck Openings


Openings in the weather deck intended to be used at sea and leading to spaces below the freeboard or
superstructure deck including emergency exits, are to be protected as required in 3-2-12/23.3 with sill
height of doors at least as required by 3-2-12/Table 1 for companionways.
Access openings, including emergency exits, are to be located clear of the towline sweep area.

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CHAPTER 8 Vessels Intended for Towing

SECTION 5 Equipment

Equipment is to be in accordance with Section 3-5-1 except that the equipment number (EN) may be
calculated using 3-5-1/3.5. The number, weight and sizes of equipment differing from 3-5-1/Table 1
may be specially considered for limited service. See also 1-1-3/11.

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CHAPTER 8 Vessels Intended for Towing

SECTION 6 Test for Optional Items

In addition to the tests required by the relevant sections, the following tests are to be conducted to the
satisfaction of the Surveyor where an optional entry (see 5-8-1/5) is requested.

1 Quick Release Test


Where the entry QR in column 5 of the Record is requested in accordance with 5-8-1/5.1, the
effectiveness of the quick release device is to be demonstrated during initial sea trial and at each
subsequent Special Periodical Survey. The test is to be conducted to manufacturer’s
recommendations.

3 Static Bollard Pull Test (2001)


The static bollard pull test procedure is to be submitted for review by the attending Surveyor in
advance of the test.
The requirements for conducting a bollard pull test on vessels of duplicate design will be specially
considered on a case-by-case basis.
The static bollard pull is to be measured with the tug at the maximum continuous rpm and at or near
the maximum towing depth. The towed vessel is to be in ballast condition but need not be down to
the summer load line mark.
The static bollard pull is the pull that is recorded over the state of equilibrium without any tendency to
decline.
The depth of water under the keel in the testing area should be at least two times the vessel draft at
amidship.
For additional test criteria, see Appendix 5-8-A2 “Guidelines for Bollard Pull Test Procedure” of
these Rules.

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PART

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CHAPTER 8 Vessels Intended for Towing

SECTION 7 Surveys

Unless otherwise specified (see 5-8-6/1), surveys after construction are to be in accordance with the
ABS Rule Requirements for Survey After Construction – Part 7. See Section 1-1-8 and Section 1-1-9
in Part 1 of these Rules.

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PART

5
CHAPTER 8 Vessels Intended for Towing

APPENDIX 1 Intact Stability Guidelines for


Towing Vessels (1998)

1 General
The intact stability of each towing vessel is to be evaluated for the loading conditions indicated in
5-8-A1/7 for compliance with the intact stability criteria in Section 5-8-2, and the results are to be
submitted.
For every loading condition, which is to be shown in the Trim and Stability Booklet, the righting arm
curve (GZ curve) should be plotted using the VCG corrected for the free surface effects of liquid in
tanks.

3 Submission of Plans
The following drawings are to be submitted with the Trim and Stability Booklet for our review:
i) General arrangement plan
ii) Capacity plan or table with centers of gravity
iii) Lines plan
iv) Hydrostatic curve or table
v) Cross curves of stability
vi) Downflooding angle versus draft curve. The downflooding angle is the first of the angle of
heel at which openings in the hull, superstructures, or deck houses which cannot be closed
weathertight, immerse.

5 Intact Stability Criteria


The following stability criteria are to be complied with:
i) The area under the righting lever curve (GZ curve) should not be less than 0.055 meter-
radians (10.3 ft-degrees) up to θ = 30° angle of heel and not less than 0.09 meter-radians
(16.9 ft-degrees) up to θ = 40° or the angle of flooding θf if this angle is less than 40°.
Additionally, the area under the righting lever curve (GZ curve) between the angles of heel of
30° and 40° or between 30° and θf, if this angle is less than 40°, is not to be less than 0.03
meter-radians (5.6 ft-degrees).

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Part 5 Specialized Vessels and Services
Chapter 8 Vessels Intended for Towing
Appendix 1 Intact Stability Guidelines for Towing Vessels 5-8-A1

ii) The righting lever GZ is to be at least 0.20 m (0.66 ft) at an angle of heel equal to or greater
than 30°.
iii) The maximum righting arm is to occur at an angle of heel not less than 25°.
iv) The initial metacentric height GM0 is not to be less than 0.15 m (0.49 ft).
v) The area of the residual dynamic stability (area between righting and heeling arm curves to
the right of the first intercept) up to an angle of heel of 40° plus the angle of the first intercept
(A1 + A2), or the angle of downflooding, if this angle is less than 40° plus the angle of the first
intercept (A1), should not be less than 0.09 meter-radians. (See 5-8-A1/Figure 1.)

FIGURE 1
Righting Arm and Heeling Arm Curves
Righting
Arm Downflooding
Angle
First
Righting Arm (GZ)

Intercept

A1
A2
Heeling
Arm
40º

Heel Angle

7 Standard Loading Conditions

7.1 Loading Conditions


The following conditions of loading are to be examined in the Trim and Stability Booklet:
i) vessel with full stores and fuel;
ii) vessel with 10 percent stores and fuel remaining;
iii) any other normal conditions both departure and arrival the Owner feels are appropriate, or
more suitable to the vessel’s trade.

7.3 Load Considerations


The following are the assumptions for calculating loading conditions:
i) In Loading Condition 5-8-A1/7.1i) above, it should be assumed that the vessel is loaded to her
assigned load line with water ballast tanks empty.
ii) If any loading condition water ballast is necessary, additional diagrams should be calculated
taking into account the water ballast. Its quantity and disposition should be stated.
iii) In calculating the free surface corrections, it should be assumed that for each type of liquid, at
least one transverse pair or a single centerline tank has a free surface and the tank or
combination of tanks is to be taken into account should be those where the effect of free
surface is the greatest.

18 ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001
Part 5 Specialized Vessels and Services
Chapter 8 Vessels Intended for Towing
Appendix 1 Intact Stability Guidelines for Towing Vessels 5-8-A1

9 Heeling Arm Curve


The heeling moment due to the towline pull should be calculated using the corresponding percentage
of the maximum bollard pull, depending on the type of propulsion (see below), at right angles to the
vessel’s fore and aft axis. The resultant moment should be converted to a heeling arm and plotted on
the same graph as the righting arm curve (GZ curve). The heeling arm curve can be taken to vary with
the cosine of the heeling angle.
Regarding the bollard pull force, the value is usually requested as it is derived from the actual test at
maximum RPM. However, in preliminary considerations a calculated value would be accepted based
on the corresponding value of pounds of bollard pull force per SHP depending on the type of
propulsion (see 5-8-A1/Table 1). The heeling arm should be taken from the top of the towing bitt to
the VCB, or for an approximation to 1/2 the mean draft.

11 Trim and Stability Booklet


The Master of the vessel should receive information in the Trim and Stability Booklet, regarding
ballasting, towing, etc., to ensure that the stability is in compliance with the criteria given in 5-8-A1/5.
The Trim and Stability Booklet should also contain a table giving the free surface moments for all
tanks designed for liquid. If any set of tanks are cross-connected, the free surface moment shall be
calculated about the vessel’s centerline.
TABLE 1
Towline Pull Force
Percentage of
Bollard Pull Bollard Pull
Type of Propulsion (lbs/SHP) at 90°
Twin screw with open propellers, or other types 30 50%
not listed below
Twin screw with open propellers and flank 30 50%
rudders
Twin screw with conventional non-movable 35 50%
nozzles
Water Tractor Tug with twin propeller Z-drives 35 70%
(steerable propellers with nozzles)
Water Tractor with twin cycloidal propellers 30 70%
(vertical axis)

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CHAPTER 8 Vessels Intended for Towing

APPENDIX 2 Guidelines for Bollard Pull Test


Procedure (2001)

1 General
This Appendix is prepared as a guide for compliance with the requirements of 5-8-6/3.
Prior to conducting the steady bollard pull test, a written request should be received from the owner of
ABS attendance and addressing items 5-8-A2/3.15 and 5-8-A2/3.17 below. Only ABS-classed
vessels may be attended for the test.

3 Steady Bollard Pull Test Requirements

3.1
The towing vessel should be on an even keel or trimmed to the intended operating condition in tow.

3.3
The towed vessel, if applicable, should be in ballast condition, but need not be down to the summer
load line mark.

3.5
Depth of water under the keel and on each side of the vessel should be at least 2 × vessel draft at
midship .

3.7
If current exceeds 1 kt., its effect is to be subtracted from the bollard pull by either:
i) Direct measurement of drag effect (pulling direction downstream) and reduction of bollard
pull accordingly: or,
ii) Conducting pull test both upstream and downstream and averaging the results.

3.9
The distance from the stern of the towing vessel to the bollard (fixed point) should be at least two ship
lengths and be unobstructed by submerged pilings, bulwarks etc.

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001 21
Part 5 Specialized Vessels and Services
Chapter 8 Vessels Intended for Towing
Appendix 2 Guidelines for Bollard Pull Test Procedure 5-8-A2

3.11
Wind speed should be 10 mph or less, or such that it does not measurably effect the bollard pull
results.

3.13
Sea condition should be calm.

3.15
A statement should be obtained from the vessel’s Master or Owners Representative that the propellers
are those approved by ABS for the vessel.

3.17
The Owners should be satisfied as to the structural adequacy of the towing hawser, towing winch or
tow bitts employed during the test.

3.19
The vessel’s stability letter should include the towing condition.

3.21
The dynamometer (load cell) used for the test should be calibrated and suitable for use in the
horizontal position. It should be fitted with swivels or should be torque insensitive, such as a
hydraulic dynamometer. It should be easily read from a safe location or a remote readout should be
provided. A continuous recording device is suggested but not mandatory. It is suggested that the
maximum scale reading be, as a minimum, at least equal to [Max. Cont. Total H.P. × 50 (LBS.)]. The
dynamometer should be located at the ashore end of the tow hawser.

3.23
The vessel’s main engines should not be adjusted to operate in overload condition. Engine overspeed
trip setting should be verified prior to commencing the test.

3.25
The Steady Bollard Pull should be computed as the average of evenly spaced load cell recordings
taken over a sustained pull interval of 3 to 5 minutes. If the tow hawser is not horizontal, the vertical
angle of the hawser is to be measured and used to obtain the actual horizontal thrust.
Engine temperatures should be at steady state during the test run. Engines should be operated at the
ABS maximum continuous horsepower (certified horsepower per the Record) during the test.
Instantaneous spike bollard pull readings should be ignored.

3.27
Two surveyors are required when conducting the test, one ashore and one in the engine room. A two-
way voice communication system is to be provided for the test.

22 ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001
PART

5
CHAPTER 9 Fire Fighting Vessels

CONTENTS
SECTION 1 General .................................................................... 25
1 Classification .......................................................... 25
3 Additional Coverage of Fire Fighting Vessel
Classification .......................................................... 25
5 Special Vessels with Fire Fighting Capabilities...... 25
SECTION 2 Plans and Calculations........................................... 27
1 Plans ...................................................................... 27
3 Calculations............................................................ 28
5 Additional Data ....................................................... 28
SECTION 3 Seakeeping .............................................................. 29
1 Stability................................................................... 29
3 Maneuverability ...................................................... 29
SECTION 4 Fire Fighting Systems............................................. 31
1 Water Monitors ....................................................... 31
3 Monitor Control....................................................... 31
5 Pumps and Piping for Water Monitors and Water
Spray ...................................................................... 32
7 Sea Suction ............................................................ 32
9 Sea Suction Strainer Plates and Valves ................ 32
11 Hose Stations ......................................................... 32
13 Foam Generators (FFV Class 2 or 3)..................... 33
15 Foam Monitor System (FFV Class 3)..................... 33
SECTION 5 Fixed Water-spray System ..................................... 35
1 General................................................................... 35
3 Water-spray System Capacity................................ 35
5 Spray System Pumps............................................. 35
7 Maintenance........................................................... 35
SECTION 6 Special Equipment .................................................. 37
1 Fireman’s Outfit ...................................................... 37
3 Searchlights............................................................ 37
5 Recharging Equipment........................................... 38
7 Fire Fighting Equipment Components ................... 38

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001 23
9 Equipment Certification .......................................... 38
SECTION 7 Structural Fire Protection .......................................39
1 Exterior Boundaries................................................ 39
3 Deadlights or Shutters............................................ 39
5 Administration......................................................... 39
SECTION 8 Surveys ....................................................................41
1 General................................................................... 41
3 Tests and Surveys.................................................. 41

24 ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001
PART

5
CHAPTER 9 Fire Fighting Vessels

SECTION 1 General

1 Classification
In accordance with 1-1-3/3, the classification À A1 Fire Fighting Vessel Class 1 will be assigned
to vessels with water spray protection for cooling the Fire Fighting Vessel’s surfaces to enable close
operation for early stages of fire fighting and rescue operations, with capabilities in accordance with
5-9-1/Table 1 built in compliance with these requirements and other relevant sections of the Rules.
Where the vessel has been built in compliance with these requirements and for continuous fighting of
large fires and cooling structures on fire, with capabilities in accordance with 5-9-1/Table 1, and other
relevant sections of the Rules, the classification À A1 Fire Fighting Vessel Class 2 or 3 will be
assigned. Where À A1 Fire Fighting Vessel Class 2 or 3 also meet À A1 Fire Fighting Vessel
Class 1 requirements, combined Class notation À A1 Fire Fighting Vessel Class 1 and Class
2, or À A1 Fire Fighting Vessel Class 1 and Class 3 may be given.

3 Additional Coverage of Fire Fighting Vessel Classification


The following special items related to fire fighting operations are covered under Classification.
Vessel’s fire fighting capabilities
Vessel’s stability and its ability to maintain station while fire fighting monitors are in full
operation
The degree of vessel’s self-protection against external fires

5 Special Vessels with Fire Fighting Capabilities


Vessels not in compliance with these Rules or not specifically built for the service intended to be
covered by these Rules but which have special fire fighting capabilities in addition to their regular
service, may be specially considered and reviewed under the intent of these Rules as they relate to fire
fighting. See also 5-9-1/1. Such vessels complying with these special requirements may be
distinguished in the Record with their assigned designation followed by the special designation (Fire
Fighting Capability) such as À A1 Towing Service (Fire Fighting Capability). Data on extent
of this special fire fighting capability will be entered into the Record, and such special fire fighting
systems will be subject to annual surveys.

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001 25
Part 5 Specialized Vessels and Services
Chapter 9 Fire Fighting Vessels
Section 1 General 5-9-1

TABLE 1
Minimum Requirements for Fire Fighting Vessels
FFV Class 1, 2, and 3. Additional minimum requirements for foam operation, fixed water-spray
systems, and searchlights are given in subsections 5-9-4/13, 5-9-5/3, and 5-9-6/3
Class Notation Class 1 Class 2 Class 3
Number of water monitors 2 3 4 4
Discharge rate per monitor, m3/hour, (gpm) 1200 (5280) 2400 (10,560) 1800 (7920) 2400 (10,560)
Number of pumps 1–2 2–4 2–4
Total capacity, m3/hour, (gpm) 2400 (10,560) 7200 (31,680) 9600 (44,240)
Monitor range (1), m, (ft) 120 (394) 150 (492) 150 (492)
Height, monitor (2), m, (ft) 45 (148) 70 (230) 70 (230)
Number of hose connections each side of vessel 4 8 10
Number of fireman’s outfits 4 8 10
Fuel oil capacity(3), hours 24 96 96

Notes:
1 Range: measured horizontally from the monitor outlet to the mean impact area.
2 Height minimum height of the trajectory of water monitor jet measured vertically from sea level assuming a mean
impact area located at a horizontal distance not less than 70 m (230 ft) from the nearest part of the fire fighting
vessel.
3 Fuel oil capacity is to include provisions for continuous operation of all monitors in addition to the total capacity
of the vessel’s fuel oil tanks required for continuous fire fighting operations. See also 5-9-2/5.

26 ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001
PART

5
CHAPTER 9 Fire Fighting Vessels

SECTION 2 Plans and Calculations

1 Plans
In addition to the plans required to be submitted by Sections 1-1-7 and 4-1-1/7, the following
additional plans are to be submitted in the same manner.

1.1 Hull Plans


Structural fire protection details
Lines and offsets
Curves of form, or equivalent
Cross curves of stability
Capacity plan, giving centers of gravity and tank free surface corrections

1.3 Fire Fighting Plans and Data


General arrangement plan detailing all fire fighting equipment including the monitors, fire pumps, fire
mains, hydrants, hoses, nozzles, water-spray systems, firemen outfits.
Details of pumps and monitors including locations, capacities and the range of the monitors’ delivery
capabilities, including water-spray system capacity data (when fitted).
Details of high pressure air compressor required for filling cylinders of air breathing apparatus,
including purity specifications.
Foundations for fire fighting pumps, their prime movers and the water monitors.
Sea chest arrangements for fire fighting systems.
Remote and local control arrangements for monitors.
For FFV Class 1 only:
Water-spray piping systems, including location of nozzles, pumps and valves, with system
corrosion protection arrangements.
For FFV Class 2 or 3:
Details of foam generators and their capacity.
For FFV Class 3:
Foam monitor arrangements, capacity and supports, including remote and local control
arrangement for the foam monitors.

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001 27
Part 5 Specialized Vessels and Services
Chapter 9 Fire Fighting Vessels
Section 2 Plans and Calculations 5-9-2

3 Calculations
The following calculations are to be submitted.
Calculations demonstrating the adequacy of the vessel’s stability during all fire fighting
operations. See also 5-9-3/1.
Calculations demonstrating adequacy of monitor supports during monitor operations. See also
5-9-4/1.5.
Submitted calculations are to be suitably documented.

5 Additional Data
In addition to submitted items required for classification, the following items are to be submitted.
Data indicating the vessel will be capable of carrying sufficient fuel oil for continuous fire
fighting operation and propulsion operation with all fixed water monitors in use at maximum
required capacity for not less than:
24 hours: FFV Class 1
96 hours: FFV Class 2 or 3
Verification that FFV Class 3 will be capable of foam production from fixed foam monitors
for at least 30 minutes continuous operation.
Verification that FFV Class 2 or 3 will be capable of foam production from mobile generators
for at least 30 minutes continuous operation.
Verification that the water monitor range, required by 5-9-1/Table 1, is not less than:
120 meters (394 feet): FFV Class 1
150 meters (492 feet): FFV Class 2 or 3
Verification that the vessel is in compliance with the minimum requirements of 5-9-1/Table 1,
with data on the vessel’s actual design capacities also recorded.
Verification of light ship characteristics. See also 5-9-3/1.3.
The Operating Booklet: It is incumbent upon the Owner to provide information, instructions,
data, and training for the fire fighting operations of the vessel to help assure that the loadings
and operational limits upon which classification is based are not exceeded. An operating
booklet detailing operation of the fire fighting installation, installation maintenance data, fire
fighting procedures, equipment locations and capacity data, and particulars on maneuvering
operations of the vessel during fire fighting or rescue operations are to be submitted for record
or file. A copy of this operating booklet, in a language, or languages, understood by the crew,
is to be placed onboard to provide data and information to the crew, and to be accessible to
the Surveyor during survey. See also 5-9-6/9 and 5-9-8/1.
Stability Information: Stability information in the form of a maximum KG versus draft curve,
or in another suitable form, based upon the submitted stability calculations required by
5-9-2/3 for all fire fighting operations described in 5-9-3/1 is to be submitted to the Bureau
for approval. This information is to be placed on board the fire fighting vessel for the
information of the Master and may become part of the operating booklet.

28 ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001
PART

5
CHAPTER 9 Fire Fighting Vessels

SECTION 3 Seakeeping

1 Stability

1.1 General
Each vessel is to have adequate stability for all fire fighting operations conditions, with all fire
fighting monitors operating at maximum output in the direction most unfavorable to the stability of
the vessel. Stability calculations and corresponding information for the Master are to be submitted for
review and approval respectively. See 5-9-2/3 and 5-9-2/5.
Alternatively, consideration will be given to written confirmation of compliance for all fire fighting
operations with the stability requirements of the appropriate national Administration. See also
Section 1-1-5.

1.3 Light Ship Weight and Center of Gravity


An inclining test will be required for the first vessel of a series, when as near to completion as
practical, to determine accurately the light ship weight and position of center of gravity. The inclining
test is to be witnessed by a Surveyor.
For successive vessels of a series, considered by the Bureau to be basically identical, submitted
detailed weight calculations, accounting only for differences in weights and centers from the inclined
vessel, will be satisfactory provided their accuracy is confirmed by a deadweight survey witnessed by
a Surveyor. Inclining experiment results, detailed weight calculations and deadweight survey results
are to be submitted for review. See also 5-9-2/5.

3 Maneuverability

3.1 Thrusters and Propulsion Machinery


The vessel is to have thrusters and propulsion machinery of sufficient power for maneuverability
during fire fighting operations and as follows.

3.3 Positioning
Thrusters and vessel’s propulsion machinery are to be able to maintain vessel on position in still water
during all combinations of operation and capacity of the water monitors, at not more than 80 percent
of available propulsion force in any direction.

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001 29
Part 5 Specialized Vessels and Services
Chapter 9 Fire Fighting Vessels
Section 3 Seakeeping 5-9-3

3.5 Control
Adequate operating control systems are to be provided for fire fighting operations which are to
include an alarm condition at 80 percent of available propulsion power and automatic reduction of
power action at 100 percent available propulsion force to prevent sudden or complete loss of power
due to power overload.

30 ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001
PART

5
CHAPTER 9 Fire Fighting Vessels

SECTION 4 Fire Fighting Systems

1 Water Monitors

1.1 General
Water monitor systems are to be in compliance with 5-9-1/Table 1.

1.3 Location
Water monitors are to be located to allow for an unobstructed range of operation. Means are to be
provided to prevent monitor jets from impinging on vessel structures and equipment.

1.5 Supports
Monitor supports are to be adequately designed for all modes of operation, with particular attention
given to loadings at maximum operation and from water jet reactions. Calculations demonstrating
adequacy of the design are to be submitted. See also 5-9-2/3.

3 Monitor Control

3.1 Operation
Monitors are to be capable of being operated and maneuvered both locally and at the remote-control
station. The monitor remote-control station is to have adequate overall operational visibility,
communications and protection.

3.3 Control
Control systems are to be suitably protected from external damage. Electrical control systems are to
be provided with overload and short circuit protection. Hydraulic or pneumatic monitor control
systems are to be provided in duplicate. Shut-off and control equipment are to be clearly marked.

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001 31
Part 5 Specialized Vessels and Services
Chapter 9 Fire Fighting Vessels
Section 4 Fire Fighting Systems 5-9-4

5 Pumps and Piping for Water Monitors and Water Spray

5.1 General
Pumps and piping systems used for water monitors are to be available for no service other than fire
fighting and water spray. Independent sea suctions are to be provided for each pump.

5.3 Pumps
Where two pumps are provided, they are to have equal or near equal capacity. Minimum total pump
capacity requirements are given in 5-9-1/Table 1. Pumps are to have piping arrangements that will
prevent overheating at low pump delivery rates. For fixed water-spray systems see 5-9-5/1.

5.5 Piping Systems


Piping systems are to be protected from overpressure. Piping systems used for water spray are to be
independent from the system supplying water monitors, except water monitor pumps may be used.
See also 5-9-5/3. All piping is to be suitably protected from corrosion and freezing.

5.7 Suction and Discharge Velocity


It is recommended that fire pump suction velocity generally not exceed 2 m/sec. (7 ft/sec.), and
discharge piping to water monitors generally not exceed 4 m/sec. (13 ft/sec.) operational velocity to
assure adequate system capacity. Data showing compliance with 5-9-1/Table 1 piping system
capacities are to be submitted. See also 5-9-2/1.3.

7 Sea Suction
Sea suction inlets for fire fighting are not to be used for any other purposes. Sea water inlets for fire
fighting and sea chests are to be arranged as low as practical to avoid clogging due to debris or ice,
and oil intake from sea’s surface. The location of sea water inlets for fire fighting and sea chest is to
be such that water suction is not impeded by ship’s motions, or water flow from propellers or
thrusters.

9 Sea Suction Strainer Plates and Valves


All sea water inlets and sea chests are to be fitted with strainer plates at the vessel’s shell. The strainer
plates are to have a clear area of at least twice that of the sea valves. Low pressure steam, compressed
air or other effective means are to be provided for clearing the strainer plates. Each sea water inlet for
fire fighting is to be equipped with a shut off valve operable from the control station for the water
monitors.

11 Hose Stations

11.1 Number
Hose stations are to be provided at each side of the vessel in accordance with 5-9-1/Table 1.

32 ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001
Part 5 Specialized Vessels and Services
Chapter 9 Fire Fighting Vessels
Section 4 Fire Fighting Systems 5-9-4

11.3 Stations
Each hose station nozzle is to be able to produce a jet or spray. Hoses are to be not less than 38 mm
(1.5 in.) nor more than 65 mm (2.5 in.) in diameter, and generally are to be 15 m (49 ft) in length. A
water jet flow of at least 12 m (39 ft) is to be provided.

11.5 Location
At least half the required number of hose connections required by 5-9-1/Table 1 are to be located on
the main weather deck.

13 Foam Generators (FFV Class 2 or 3)


FFV Class 2 or 3 are to have 100m3/minute (3530 ft3/min) minimum capacity mobile high expansion
foam generators for fire fighting. On FFV Class 3, this foam generator requirement is in addition to
the fixed foam monitor system requirement in 5-9-4/15. Total foam forming liquid carried is to be
capable of a least 30 minutes foam production.

15 Foam Monitor System (FFV Class 3)

15.1 Capacity
FFV Class 3 are to have two fixed low expansion foam monitors in addition to the required water
monitors. Each foam monitor is to have a minimum capacity of 5000 liters/minute (177 ft3/min) with
a foam expansion ratio of 15 to 1 and is to be capable of a height of throw 50 m (164 ft) above sea
level with both foam monitors in simultaneous use at maximum foam generation. Foam concentration
tank is to have a minimum capacity for 30 minutes at an assumed admixture of 5 percent.

15.3 Arrangements
The foam monitor system is to be of a fixed design with separate foam concentration tank, foam
mixing unit and pipelines to the foam monitors. The water supply may be taken from the water
monitor pumps. Means to reduce supply water pressure may be required to assure correct water
pressure for maximum foam generation.

15.5 Control
The fixed foam monitors are to have both local (manual) and remote-control. The remote-control of
the foam monitors is to be located at the remote-control station for the water monitors and is to
include remote-control of water and foam concentrate.

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001 33
PART

5
CHAPTER 9 Fire Fighting Vessels

SECTION 5 Fixed Water-spray System

1 General
FFV Class 1 are to be provided with a permanently installed water-spray system. The water-spray
system is to provide protection for all outside vertical areas of the hull, superstructure, and
deckhouses, including water monitor foundations and equipment. The water-spray system’s piping,
valves, and nozzles are to be suitably protected from damage during fire fighting operations.

3 Water-spray System Capacity


The capacity of the water-spray system is to be at least 10 liters/minute/m2 (0.25 gpm/ft2) of total
protected area of uninsulated steel. For areas internally insulated to Class A-60 insulation, a minimum
capacity of 5 liters/minute/m2 (0.12 gpm/ft2) of total protected area may be accepted. See also 5-9-7/1.
Necessary visibility of water-spray operations from the navigating bridge and from the monitor’s
remote-control station is to be provided.

5 Spray System Pumps


Spray system pumping capacity is to be sufficient to insure a supply pressure and volume for adequate
operation of the water-spray system. If the water monitor pumps are used they are to be provided with
sufficient capacity to provide pressure and volume for both the water monitors and the water-spray
systems.

7 Maintenance
Water-spray systems are to be protected from corrosion. Drainage arrangements are to be provided to
protect against freezing water damage. Deck scuppers and freeing ports are to be provided to assure
efficient drainage of water from deck surfaces when the water-spray system is in operation.

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001 35
PART

5
CHAPTER 9 Fire Fighting Vessels

SECTION 6 Special Equipment

1 Fireman’s Outfit

1.1 Number
FFV Class 1, Class 2, and Class 3 are to have the minimum number of fireman’s outfits indicated in
5-9-1/Table 1.

1.3 Components
Fireman’s outfits are to include the following:
A self-contained breathing apparatus capable of functioning for at least 30 minutes, and
having a capacity of at least 1200 liters (42 ft3) of free air. At least one set of fully charged
spare air bottles, of at least equivalent capacity, is to be provided for each apparatus.
An electric hand lantern capable of at least 3 hours continuous operation.
Protective helmet, boots and gloves composed of an electrically resistant substance.
Water resistant, protective clothing to protect skin from heat radiation, fire and from burns
and scalding by steam.
A fire proof lifeline, with lifeline belt or harness, attached by means of a snap hook. The
lifeline is to be certified by the manufacturer as being of a strength suitable for the service
intended, with a length suitable for the range of operations intended.
Information on the fireman’s outfit is to be displayed at storage area for user. Data is also to
be included in the operating booklet, which is to be accessible for the crew’s information. The
information to be displayed and operating booklet data are to include particulars on capability
of lifelines (holding capacity and length), lanterns (operating time), and breathing apparatus
(time).

3 Searchlights

3.1 Number
Two searchlights are to be provided on all fire fighting vessels to facilitate effective fire fighting
operations at night.

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001 37
Part 5 Specialized Vessels and Services
Chapter 9 Fire Fighting Vessels
Section 6 Special Equipment 5-9-6

3.3 Range
The searchlights are to be capable of providing an effective horizontal and vertical range of coverage
and are to provide an illumination to a distance of 250 m (820 ft) in clear air at a minimum level of
illumination of 50 lux within an area not less than 11 m (36 ft) diameter.

5 Recharging Equipment
An air compressor capable of recharging the air bottles used in breathing apparatus required in
5-9-1/Table 1 is to be provided, and capable of recharging all the air bottles of the fireman’s outfit
(breathing apparatus) required in 5-9-1/Table 1 in a time not exceeding 30 minutes. The compressor is
to be certified by the manufacturer as being capable of maintaining air purity suitable for this type of
service.

7 Fire Fighting Equipment Components


The special fire fighting equipment associated with these requirements are to be in conformance with
applicable parts of Part 4, Chapter 5.

9 Equipment Certification
Specialized fire fighting equipment such as monitors, hoses, nozzles, fireman’s outfits, air bottle
charging air compressors, are subject to being documented by the manufacturer as being suitable for
the fire fighting service intended. Equipment certification data is to correspond to data given in the
operating booklet. See also 5-9-2/5.

38 ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001
PART

5
CHAPTER 9 Fire Fighting Vessels

SECTION 7 Structural Fire Protection

1 Exterior Boundaries

1.1 FFV Class 1


All exterior boundaries of FFV Class 1, including exposed bulkheads, exposed decks and the hull
above the lightest operating waterline, are to be of steel construction and protected by a fixed water-
spray system in accordance with Section 5-9-5.

1.3 FFV Class 2 and FFV Class 3


Generally, all exterior boundaries of FFV Class 2 and FFV Class 3 are to be of steel but need not be
protected by a fixed water-spray system nor internally insulated.
Special consideration will be given to boundaries to be constructed of materials other than steel.
Details of the materials and of the protection which may be required to be provided are to be
submitted to the Bureau.

3 Deadlights or Shutters
On FFV Class 2 and Class 3 which are not provided with water-spray systems, steel deadlights or
shutters are to be provided on all windows and port lights except in the navigating bridge.

5 Administration
In addition, fire fighting vessels are to comply with all requirements for structural fire protection
which may be imposed by the Administration of the vessel’s country of registry.

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001 39
PART

5
CHAPTER 9 Fire Fighting Vessels

SECTION 8 Surveys

1 General
To assist in surveys, the vessel is to be provided with an operating booklet onboard and accessible to
the Surveyor giving detailed descriptions of the fire fighting systems, systems control, and operational
instructions for the vessel during fire fighting operations, with the location, number, and capacity of
fire fighting equipment listed. Details of periodic tests, surveys, and maintenance of fire fighting
installations and equipment are to be provided. See also 5-9-2/5.

3 Tests and Surveys

3.1 Surveys During Construction


Operation of completed fire fighting systems are to be demonstrated to the satisfaction of the
Surveyor, including height and throw of the water monitors. The angle of list of the vessel, with all
water monitors at maximum capacity of operation, is to be measured and recorded. The operating
booklet is to be made accessible for the Surveyor’s information.

3.3 Surveys After Construction


Fire fighting vessels are to be surveyed and equipment operationally tested annually to the satisfaction
of the Surveyor.

3.3.1 Survey, Fire Fighting Vessels


Annual Survey is to be conducted. Annual survey is to include verification that fire fighting
equipment onboard is operational, and is in accordance with data required in the operating
booklet, and the safety plan, to the satisfaction of the Surveyor. See also 5-9-2/5. Compliance
with the periodic maintenance program required in 5-9-8/1 and the operating booklet is to be
verified by the Surveyor. For foam installations, the Surveyor is to verify renewal of the
foam-forming liquid has been carried out in accordance with the replacement schedule which
is to be included in the operating booklet. Generally, foam renewal is to be carried out every
36 months. Fixed water-spray systems (when installed) are also to be operationally
demonstrated to the Surveyor’s satisfaction.

3.3.2 Survey, Hull and Machinery


Annual and Special Periodical Surveys of hull and machinery items of the fire fighting
vessels are to be in accordance with the applicable survey requirements of the ABS Rule
Requirements for Survey After Construction – Part 7.

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001 41
PART

5
CHAPTER 10 Vessels Intended for Support
Services to Offshore Installations

CONTENTS
SECTION 1 General .................................................................... 45
1 Application.............................................................. 45
3 Classification .......................................................... 45
5 Submission of Data ................................................ 45
7 Definitions............................................................... 46
SECTION 2 Stability.................................................................... 47
1 Intact Stability ......................................................... 47
3 Subdivision and Damage Stability.......................... 47
SECTION 3 Vessel Design.......................................................... 49
1 Side Shell and Frames........................................... 49
3 Cargo Deck ............................................................ 49
5 Liquid Cargo Tank .................................................. 50
7 Dry Cargo Tank ...................................................... 51
9 Deckhouses............................................................ 51
SECTION 4 Anchor Handling ..................................................... 53
1 Winch and Accessories .......................................... 53
3 A-frame or Shear Leg Type Crane......................... 53
5 Stern Roller ............................................................ 53
SECTION 5 Well Stimulation ...................................................... 55
1 Classification .......................................................... 55
3 Acid Spill Protection ............................................... 55
5 Electrical Equipment .............................................. 55
7 Subdivision and Damage Stability.......................... 56
SECTION 6 Carriage of Limited Amounts of Hazardous and
Noxious Liquid Substances ................................... 57

APPENDIX 1 Intact Stability Guidelines for Offshore Support


Vessels .................................................................... 59
APPENDIX 2 Damage Stability Guidelines for Offshore
Support Vessels...................................................... 63

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001 43
PART

5
CHAPTER 10 Vessels Intended for Support
Services to Offshore Installations

SECTION 1 General

1 Application
The requirements in this section apply to vessels intended for offshore support services.

3 Classification (1999)
In accordance with 1-1-3/3, the classification À A1 Offshore Support Vessel is to be assigned to
vessels designed for support service to offshore installations and built to the applicable requirements
of this section and other relevant sections of these Rules. At the request of the Owner, vessels having
functional equipment as required below may be assigned an additional; notation as follows:

Additional Notation Services Requirements


AH Anchor Handling Section 5-10-4
WS Well Stimulation Section 5-10-5

Such vessels, when built to the requirements of the Rules including those for optional additional
notation will be distinguished as AH/Offshore Support Vessel, WS/Offshore Support Vessel,
etc. in column 8 of the Record.

5 Submission of Data
In general, in addition to the plans listed in 1-1-7/1 and 4-1-1/7 of these Rules, the following plans and
particulars are to be submitted.
Structural details and arrangements of the structures in way of the independent tanks,
(dry/liquid mud and/or cement), out-rigger supports for anchor handling gear and /or well
maintenance, cargo rail support, whichever is applicable.
Loading arrangement of deck cargoes.
Lashing arrangement of deck cargoes.
Stability data and calculations.
Piping diagrams of liquid cargo transfer systems.

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001 45
Part 5 Specialized Vessels and Services
Chapter 10 Vessels Intended for Support Services to Offshore Installations
Section 1 General 5-10-1

Piping diagrams of solid bulk cargo transfer systems.


Ventilation diagrams of liquid cargoes.

7 Definitions

7.1 Offshore Support Vessel


Vessels which are primarily engaged in the transport of stores, materials and equipment to offshore
installations and are designed with accommodation and bridge erections in the forward part of the
vessel and an exposed cargo deck in the after part for handling of cargo at sea.

7.3 Offshore Installation


A marine structure located at an offshore site.

7.5 Cargo Rail


Side rails with stanchions supporting lateral and/or lashing loads of deck cargo.

7.7 Stern Roller


A built-in roller normally installed in way of the intersection of exposed deck and transom for
transmission of hook load to crane jib or winch.

46 ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001
PART

5
CHAPTER 10 Vessels Intended for Support
Services to Offshore Installations

SECTION 2 Stability

1 Intact Stability
The intact stability of the vessel for offshore support service to offshore installations is to comply with
a recognized standard. The submission of evidence showing approval by an Administration will be
acceptable. Alternatively, upon request the review will be performed by the Bureau. See Appendix
5-10-A1 for criteria applied by the Bureau.

3 Subdivision and Damage Stability


The subdivision and damage stability of the vessel for offshore support service to offshore
installations are to comply with a recognized standard. The submission of evidence showing approval
by an Administration will be acceptable. Alternatively, upon request the review will be performed by
the Bureau. See Appendix 5-10-A2 for criteria applied by the Bureau.

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001 47
PART

5
CHAPTER 10 Vessels Intended for Support
Services to Offshore Installations

SECTION 3 Vessel Design

1 Side Shell and Frames


Special attention is to be paid in design for reinforcement of side shell frames to the impact loads
arising from contact with offshore installations during operations at an offshore site. The scantlings of
main frames or tween deck frames in way of fenders and side shell plate in the area of impact load are
to be effectively increased to the anticipated impact load. Unless a specific assessment of impact load
is made, at least a 25% increase in scantlings is recommended. See also 3-2-5/9 and 3-2-2/5.3.

1.1 Arrangement of Fender


Unless the shell plate at upper deck and forecastle are specifically assessed or otherwise increased for
impact loads, longitudinal fenders are normally to be fitted on side shell in the area where the deck
has its full breadth.

1.3 Material of Fender


Material of the fender is to be steel having ductility and weldability not less than that required for
Grade A material.

1.5 Reinforcement
Carling plates are to be so arranged between side frames that fender loads are distributed to the hull.

3 Cargo Deck

3.1 Reinforcement Against Heavy Cargoes


Where heavy cargo is carried on deck, effective means such as steel cradle or steel or wooden
dunnage are to be provided so that cargo weight is uniformly distributed in the deck structures. The
stresses in deck members are not to exceed the following values when the maximum bending moment
is applied. In determining the maximum bending moment, members may be considered fixed-ended
provided they are continuous over the adjacent space or are effectively attached to a bulkhead
stiffener or frame.

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001 49
Part 5 Specialized Vessels and Services
Chapter 10 Vessels Intended for Support Services to Offshore Installations
Section 3 Vessel Design 5-10-3

σ τ
tf/cm2(ltf/in2) tf/cm2(ltf/in2)
Longitudinal Beam/Girder: 1.26 (8.0) 0.70 (4.4)
Transverse Beam/Web: 1.42 (9.0) 0.87 (5.5)

3.3 Deck Covering


Knot free wooden sheathings are normally to be provided on cargo decks to protect steel deck plate
from mechanical damage and/or rubbing. Thickness of wooden sheathing is to be at least 50 mm
(2 inches).

3.5 Cargo Rail


Where cargo rails are fitted on cargo deck, stanchions of cargo rail are to be efficiently attached and
supported. Scantlings of cargo rail are to have SM value not less than required by the following
equation:
Stanchion: SM = 7.8cb1Hsh cm3 SM = 0.0041cb1Hsh in3

Rail: SM = 7.8cb1Hs2 cm3 SM = 0.0041cb1Hs2 in3


where
c = 1.3 for stanchion and, 0.11 for rail
b1 = breadth of cargo deck, between cargo rails, in m (ft)
H = mean height of cargo, in m (ft)
s = spacing of cargo rail stanchion, in m (ft)
h = height of cargo rail, in m (ft)

5 Liquid Cargo Tank


Where tanks for hazardous and noxious liquid cargo are fitted, the quantities of liquid cargo are to be
limited to 800 m3 or a volume in cubic meters equal to 40% of the vessel’s deadweight calculated at a
cargo density of 1.0 t/m3 (0.028 Lt/ft3). The Administration may permit carriage of more than this
maximum amount. In general, there are no such quantities limitation for drilling fluids (Liquid mud,
etc.), cargo fuel having a flash point not lower than 60°C (140°F) and non-noxious liquid substances.
Segregation and construction of tanks for hazardous and noxious liquids cargo are to comply with the
following requirements, whichever is applicable:

5.1 Integral Tanks


Where not bounded by bottom shell plating, fuel oil tanks, a cargo pump-room or a pump-room, the
cargo tanks are to be separated from other spaces by cofferdams having accessible width of 600 mm
(24 inch). Tank structures are to comply with the applicable requirements in Section 5-9-4 of the
Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels.

5.3 Independent Tanks


Tanks are to be segregated from machinery spaces, propeller shaft tunnels, if fitted, dry cargo spaces,
accommodation and service spaces and from drinking water and stores for human consumption, by
means of a cofferdam, void space, cargo pump-room, oil fuel tank, or other similar space.
Construction of independent tank are to comply with the applicable requirements in Part 4, Chapter 4
and Section 5-9-4 of the Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels. Supports of independent tank
are to be efficiently provided so that the stresses in supporting members and hull structures are within
the allowable limits as specified in 5-10-3/3.1 of these Rules.

50 ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001
Part 5 Specialized Vessels and Services
Chapter 10 Vessels Intended for Support Services to Offshore Installations
Section 3 Vessel Design 5-10-3

Further arrangements and details are to comply with the following applicable requirements of the
Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels:
Access to spaces in the cargo area: 5-9-3/4
Cargo Transfer: Section 5-9-5
Materials of construction: Section 5-9-6
Cargo tank vent systems: Section 5-9-8 (*)
Electrical installations: Section 5-9-10
*Vent height above weather deck may be reduced to 2 m (6.5 ft).

7 Dry Cargo Tanks


Where cargo tanks for dry cement or mud are fitted, these cargo tanks are to be separated from the
engine room and accommodation spaces by steel bulkheads and decks. Cargo transfer piping systems
are, in general, not to be led through machinery spaces. However, when such design is impractical,
piping systems may pass through machinery spaces provided all pipe connections located within the
machinery space are welded and any detachable connections are arranged outside of the space. Access
door in the bulkhead is to be provided with a notice affixed to each such closing appliance to the
effect that it is to be kept closed. Tank structures are to comply with the applicable requirements in
Part 4, Chapter 4 of the Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels.

9 Deckhouses
The scantlings of deckhouses are to comply with the requirements of Section 3-2-9, except minimum
heads in equation 3-2-8/3.5. For unprotected front bulkheads on the first tier on freeboard deck or
forecastle deck, h is to be taken as not less than 8.0 m (26.3 ft) and for sides and ends of first tier on
freeboard or forecastle deck, h is to be taken as not less than 3.3 m (10.8 ft).

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001 51
PART

5
CHAPTER 10 Vessels Intended for Support
Services to Offshore Installations

SECTION 4 Anchor Handling


Vessels designed and built for anchor handling operation in offshore site in compliance with the
requirements in this subsection will be distinguished by the optional notation AH in accordance with
5-10-1/3. The following drawings of anchor handling equipment are to be submitted for Bureau
review in addition to the data required in 5-10-1/5:
Winch and its accessories
A-frame or Shear Leg Type Crane Jib, etc whichever is applicable
Stern Roller
Arrangements and Details of Quick Anchor Release, if applicable

1 Winch and Accessories


Winch and accessories for anchor handling are to comply with the requirements of 5-8-3/5.

3 A-frame or Shear Leg Type Crane


Where A-frame or shear leg type crane is installed for anchor handling, they are to be certified for
compliance with the ABS Guide for Certification of Cranes.

5 Stern Roller
Roller and pin connections are to be designed to have a factor of safety of 3.0 to the minimum yield
strength of the material under working load.

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001 53
PART

5
CHAPTER 10 Vessels Intended for Support
Services to Offshore Installations

SECTION 5 Well Stimulation

1 Classification
Vessels designed and built for well stimulation operation in compliance with the requirements in this
subsection will be distinguished by the optional notation, WS in accordance with 5-10-1/3.

3 Acid Spill Protection

3.1 Protection of Floors and Decks


Floors or decks under acid storage tanks, pumps and piping for acid are to have a lining or coating of
corrosion-resistant material extending up to a minimum height of 500 mm (19.7 in) in the bounding
bulkheads or coamings. Where hatches or similar openings are arranged in the floors or the decks,
watertight coamings having a minimum height of 500 mm (19.7 in) are to be provided. Height of
coamings may be waived where the Administration decides that this height is not practicable.

3.3 Shield
A spray shield is to be provided to cover flanges or other detachable pipe connections. Portable shield
covers are to be provided for connecting the flanges of the loading manifold.

3.5 Drip Trays and Drainage Arrangements


Drip trays of corrosion-resistant material are to be provided under loading manifolds. Drainage
arrangements of corrosion-resistant materials are to be provided in spaces for acid storage tanks, acid
pumping and piping.

3.7 Spill Coaming


A permanent deck spill coaming of 150 mm (6.0 in) in height is to be provided on deck to keep deck
spill away from accommodation and service areas.

5 Electrical Equipment
All electrical equipment installed within 3 m (10 ft) of a source of vapor on a weather deck are to be
of an approved explosion-proof type or an intrinsically-safe type.

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001 55
Part 5 Specialized Vessels and Services
Chapter 10 Vessels Intended for Support Services to Offshore Installations
Section 5 Well Stimulation 5-10-5

7 Subdivision and Damage Stability


The requirements in Appendix 5-10-A2 of this section may be applicable unless the Administration
has specific requirements. The specific damage extent criteria for well stimulation vessel is also
indicated, i.e. see Note 5 in 5-10-A2/3.

56 ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001
PART

5
CHAPTER 10 Vessels Intended for Support
Services to Offshore Installations

SECTION 6 Carriage of Limited Amounts of


Hazardous and Noxious Liquid
Substances

Where it is intended to carry limited amounts of hazardous and noxious liquid substances in bulk on
offshore support vessels, the arrangement is to comply with IMO Resolution A.673 (16), “Guidelines
for the Transport and Handling of Limited Amounts of Hazardous and Noxious Liquid Substances in
Bulk in Offshore Support Vessels”. Consideration will be given to the arrangement which complies
with the published requirements of the flag Administration.

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001 57
PART

5
CHAPTER 10 Vessels Intended for Support
Services to Offshore Installations

APPENDIX 1 Intact Stability Guidelines for


Offshore Support Vessels

1
For every loading condition, which is to be shown in the Trim and Stability Booklet, the righting arm
curve (GZ curve) is to be plotted using the VCG corrected for the free surface effects of liquid in
tanks.

3
Where pipes are carried on deck, a quantity of trapped water equal to a certain percentage of the net
volume of the pipe deck cargo should be assumed in and around the pipes. The net volume is to be
taken as the internal volume of the pipes, plus the volume between the pipes. This percentage is to be
30% if the freeboard amidships is equal to or less than 0.015L and 10% if the free board amidships is
equal to or greater than 0.03L. For intermediate values of the freeboard amidships the percentage is to
be obtained by linear interpolation. In assessing the quantity of trapped water, the Administration may
take into account positive or negative sheer aft, actual trim and area of operation.

5.1
The following stability criteria are to be complied with:
i) The area under the righting lever curve (GZ curve) should not be less than 0.055 meter-
radians (10.3 ft-degrees) up to θ = 30° angle of heel and not less than 0.09 meter-radians
(16.9 ft-degrees) up to θ = 40° or the angle of flooding, if this angle is less than 40°.
Additionally, the area under the righting lever curve (GZ curve) between the angles of heel of
30° and 40° or between 30° and θf, if this angle is less than 40°, is not to be less than 0.03
meter-radians (5.6 ft-degrees).
ii) The righting lever GZ is to be at least 0.20 m (0.66 ft) at an angle of heel equal to or greater
than 30°.
iii) The maximum righting arm is to occur at an angle of heel not less than 25°.
iv) The initial metacentric height GM0 is not to be less than 0.15 m (0.49 ft).

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001 59
Part 5 Specialized Vessels and Services
Chapter 10 Vessels Intended for Support Services to Offshore Installations
Appendix 1 Intact Stability Guidelines for Offshore Support Vessels 5-10-A1

5.3
Where vessel’s characteristics render compliance with 5-10-A1/5.1 impracticable due to high B to
freeboard ratio, the following equivalent criteria are to be complied with:
i) The area under the curve of righting levers (GZ curve) is not to be less than 0.070 meter-
radians (13.2 ft-degrees) up to an angle of 15° when the maximum righting lever (GZ) occurs
at 15° and 0.055 meter-radians (10.3 ft-degrees) up to an angle of 30° when the maximum
righting lever (GZ) occurs at 30° or above. Where the maximum righting lever (GZ) occurs
at angles of between 15° and 30°, the corresponding area under the righting lever curve is to
be:
0.055 + 0.001 (30° – θmax) meter-radians**
10.3 + 0.187 (30° – θmax) feet-degrees**
ii) The area under the righting lever curve (GZ curve) between the angles of heel of 30° and 40°,
or between 30° and θf if this angle is less than 40°, is not to be less than 0.03 meter-radians
(5.6 ft-degrees).
iii) The righting lever (GZ) is to be at least 0.20 m (0.66 ft) at an angle of heel equal to or greater
than 30°.
iv) The maximum righting lever (GZ) is to occur at an angle of heel not less than 15°.
v) The initial transverse metacentric height (GMo) is not to be less than 0.15 m (0.49 ft).
*θf is the angle of heel in degrees at which openings in the hull, superstructure or deckhouses which cannot be closed
weathertight immerse. In applying this criterion, small openings through which progressive flooding cannot take place need
not be considered as open.
**θmax is the angle of heel in degrees at which the righting lever curve reaches its maximum.

7
The following conditions of loading are to be examined in the Trim and Stability Booklet:
i) Vessel with full stores and fuel and fully loaded with cargo distributed below deck and with
cargo specified by position and weight on deck corresponding to the worst service departure
condition in which all the relevant stability criteria are met.
ii) Vessel with 10% stores and fuel and fully loaded cargoes of i) above, arrival condition.
iii) Vessel with full stores and fuel in ballast departure condition.
iv) Vessel with 10% stores and fuel in ballast arrival condition.
v) Vessel in the worst anticipated operating condition.

9
The master of the vessel should receive information in the Trim and Stability Booklet, regarding
ballasting, deck cargo stowage, etc., to ensure that the stability is in compliance with the criteria given
in 5-10-A1/5 above.
The Trim and Stability Booklet should also contain a table giving the free surface moments for all
tanks designed for liquid. If any set of tanks are cross-connected, the free surface moment shall be
calculated about the vessel’s centerline.

60 ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001
Part 5 Specialized Vessels and Services
Chapter 10 Vessels Intended for Support Services to Offshore Installations
Appendix 1 Intact Stability Guidelines for Offshore Support Vessels 5-10-A1

11
The following drawings are to be submitted with the Trim and Stability Booklet for Bureau review:
i) General arrangement plan
ii) Capacity plan or table with centers of gravity
iii) Lines plan
iv) Hydrostatic curves or table
v) Cross curves of stability
vi) Downflooding angle versus draft curve. The downflooding angle is the first of the angle of
heel at which openings in the hull, superstructures, or deck houses which cannot be closed
weathertight, immerse.

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001 61
PART

5
CHAPTER 10 Vessels Intended for Support
Services to Offshore Installations

APPENDIX 2 Damage Stability Guidelines for


Offshore Support Vessels

1
Taking into account, as initial conditions before flooding, the standard loading conditions as referred
to in 5-10-A1/7 and the damage assumptions in 5-10-A2/3, the vessel is to comply with the damage
stability criteria as specified in 5-10-A2/5.

3
The following damage assumptions are to be applied:
i) Damage is to be assumed to occur anywhere in the vessel’s length between transverse
watertight bulkheads.
ii) The vertical extent of damage is to be assumed from the underside of the cargo deck, or the
continuation thereof, for the full depth of the vessel.
iii) The transverse extent of damage is to be assumed as 760 mm (30 in.), measured inboard from
the side of the vessel perpendicularly to the centerline at the level of the summer load waterline.
Note: 1. A transverse watertight bulkhead extending from the vessel’s side to a distance inboard of 760 mm (30 in.) or
more at the level of the summer load line joining longitudinal watertight bulkheads is to be considered as a
transverse watertight bulkhead for the purpose of the damage calculations.
2. If pipes, ducts or tunnels are situated within the assumed extent of damage, arrangements are to be made to
ensure that progressive flooding cannot thereby extend to compartments other than those assumed to be
floodable for each case of damage.
3. If damage of a lesser extent than that specified in 5-10-A2/3.3 and/or 5-10-A2/3.5 results in a more severe
condition, such lesser extent is to be assumed.
4. Where a transverse watertight bulkhead is located within the transverse extent of assumed damage and is
stepped in way of a double bottom or side tank by more than 3.05 m (10 ft), the double bottom or side tanks
adjacent to the stepped portion of the transverse watertight bulkhead is to be considered as flooded
simultaneously.
5. For a vessel exclusively operating for well stimulation service, assumed damage occurs anywhere in the vessel’s
length at any transverse watertight bulkhead.

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001 63
Part 5 Specialized Vessels and Services
Chapter 10 Vessels Intended for Support Services to Offshore Installations
Appendix 2 Damage Stability Guidelines for Offshore Support Vessels 5-10-A2

5
The following damage stability criteria are to be complied with:
i) The final waterline, taking into account sinkage, heel and trim, is to be below the lower edge
of any opening through which progressive flooding may take place. Such openings are to
include air pipes and those which are capable of being closed by means of weathertight doors
or hatch covers and exclude those openings closed by means of watertight manhole covers
and flush scuttles, small watertight cargo tank hatch covers which maintain the high integrity
of the desk, remotely operated watertight sliding doors, and sidescuttles of the non-opening
type.
ii) In the final stage of flooding, the angle of heel due to unsymmetrical flooding is not to exceed
15°. This angle may be increased up to 17° if no deck immersion occurs.
iii) The stability in the final stage of flooding is to be investigated and may be regarded as
sufficient if the righting lever curve lag at least a range of 20° beyond the position of
equilibrium in association with a maximum residual righting lever of at least 100 mm (3.9 in.)
within this range. Unprotected openings are not to become immersed at an angle of heel
within the prescribed minimum range of residual stability unless the space in question has
been included as a floodable space in calculations for damage stability. Within this range,
immersion of any of the openings referred to in 5-10-A2/5.5 and any other openings capable
of being closed weathertight may be authorized.
iv) The Administration is to be satisfied that the stability is sufficient during intermediate stages
of flooding.

7
The permeability of compartments assumed to be damaged are to be as follows:
Spaces Permeability
Appropriated to stores 0.60
Occupied by accommodation 0.95
Occupied by machinery 0.85
Void spaces 0.95
Intended for dry cargo 0.95

The permeability of tanks is to be consistent with the amount of liquid carried, as shown in the
loading conditions specified in 5-10-A2/1. The permeability of empty tanks in to be assumed to be not
less than 0.95.

64 ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001
PART

5
CHAPTER 11 Oil Recovery Vessels

CONTENTS
SECTION 1 General .................................................................... 67
1 Classification .......................................................... 67
3 Submission of Plans............................................... 67
5 Operating Manual................................................... 68
SECTION 2 Definitions ............................................................... 69
1 Accommodation Space .......................................... 69
3 Cargo...................................................................... 69
5 Cargo Area ............................................................. 69
7 Control Space......................................................... 69
9 Flash Point ............................................................. 69
11 Hazardous Locations ............................................. 70
13 Machinery Space.................................................... 70
15 Pump Room ........................................................... 70
17 Oil ........................................................................... 70
19 Service Space ........................................................ 70
SECTION 3 Hull Construction and Equipment ......................... 71
1 General................................................................... 71
3 Tank Arrangement ................................................. 71
5 Structural Fire Protection ....................................... 71
7 Spill Coaming ......................................................... 72
9 Pump Rooms ......................................................... 72
11 Accommodation Spaces ........................................ 73
13 Machinery Spaces.................................................. 73
SECTION 4 Machinery Equipment and Systems ...................... 75
1 General................................................................... 77
3 Machinery Installation ............................................ 77
5 Recovered Oil Piping Systems............................... 78
7 Tank Venting Systems ........................................... 79
9 Electrical Equipment and Hazardous Areas .......... 80
11 Ventilation Systems................................................ 80
13 Fire Extinguishing Systems and Equipment .......... 81

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001 65
SECTION 5 Vessels Intended for Recovery of Oil with a
Flash Point Above 60°C (140°F).....................................................83
1 General................................................................... 83
3 Hull Construction and Equipment........................... 83
5 Machinery Equipment and Systems....................... 84

66 ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001
PART

5
CHAPTER 11 Oil Recovery Vessels

SECTION 1 General

The requirements of these Rules are applicable to vessels, less than 500 gross tons or not normally
engaged on international voyages, intended for recovery of oils of varying flash points.

1 Classification

1.1 À A1 Oil Recovery Vessel Class 1, À AMS


In accordance with 1-1-3/3, the classification À A1 Oil Recovery Vessel Class 1, À AMS will be
assigned to vessels built in compliance with these requirements for recovery of oil of unknown flash
point in accordance with Sections 5-11-3 and 5-11-4 and other relevant sections of the Rules, and
approved by the Committee for oil recovery service at the assigned freeboard. It is the responsibility
of the Owner to ensure that the vessel is operated in a safe environment with respect to the risk of fire
and explosion.

1.3 À A1 Oil Recovery Vessel Class 2, À AMS


In accordance with 1-1-3/3, the classification À A1 Oil Recovery Vessel Class 2, À AMS will be
assigned to vessels built in compliance with these requirements for recovery of oil having a flash
point exceeding 60°C (140°F) in accordance with Section 5-11-5 and other relevant sections of the
Rules, and approved by the Committee for oil recovery service at the assigned freeboard. It is the
responsibility of the Owner to ensure that the vessel is operated in a safe environment with respect to
the risk of fire and explosion.

1.5 Selection of Class


It is the responsibility of the Owner to select the class most suitable for the intended service.

3 Submission of Plans
In addition to the plans required to be submitted by Section 1-1-7 and 4-1-1/7, the following
additional plans are to be submitted in the same manner.
Arrangement plan indicating the location of oil recovery and handling equipment and tanks
utilized for recovered oil.
Plan showing arrangement of structural fire protection and location, controls and particulars
of fire extinguishing systems and fire safety equipment.

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001 67
Part 5 Specialized Vessels and Services
Chapter 11 Oil Recovery Vessels
Section 1 General 5-11-1

Diagrammatic plans of piping systems for handling recovered oil. These plans are to be
accompanied by lists of material giving size, wall thickness, maximum working pressure and
material of all pipes and the type, size, pressure rating and material of valves and fittings.
Diagrammatic plan of recovered oil tank venting arrangements including the position of vent
outlets.
Diagrammatic plan of recovered oil heating systems, if installed.
Plan showing hazardous locations and electrical equipment in these locations together with a
listing of equipment manufacturers and model numbers and evidence of certification for
explosion-proof, intrinsically-safe and pressurized equipment. Also, wiring plans, installation
instructions and certification agency restrictions for intrinsically-safe systems.
Plans showing the arrangement of ventilating systems for all hazardous areas along with
complete particulars of the ventilating system including capacities of fans, number of
complete changes of air per hour, air flows, areas subject to positive or negative pressure, and
location and direction of opening of self-closing doors.

5 Operating Manual
It is incumbent upon the Owner to provide information, instructions, data and training for the oil
recovery operations of the vessel to help assure that the loadings and operational limits upon which
the vessel is designed and classification is based are not exceeded. An operating manual detailing
operation and maintenance procedures, equipment and capacity data, and particulars on operation of
the vessel during oil recovery operations is to be placed aboard the vessel for the guidance of the
operating personnel. The Operating Manual is to be submitted for review by the American Bureau of
Shipping solely to ensure that the information included within is consistent with the design
information and limitations considered in the vessel’s classification. The American Bureau of
Shipping is not responsible for the operation of the vessel.

68 ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001
PART

5
CHAPTER 11 Oil Recovery Vessels

SECTION 2 Definitions

The following definitions of terms are to be understood (in the absence of other specifications) where
they appear in this Section.

1 Accommodation Space
Accommodation Spaces are those spaces used for public spaces, corridors, laboratories, cabins,
offices, hospitals, game and hobby rooms, pantries containing no cooking appliances, and similar
spaces.

3 Cargo
Where the terms Cargo or Cargo Oil are used, it is intended that recovered oil be considered cargo
oil. This will include the terms “cargo area”, “cargo pump room”, “cargo oil tanks”, etc.

5 Cargo Area
The Cargo Area is that part of the vessel that contains cargo tanks, slop tanks and cargo pump rooms
including cofferdams, ballast and void spaces adjacent to cargo tanks and also deck areas throughout
the entire length and breadth of the part of the vessel above the aforementioned spaces.

7 Control Space
Control spaces are those spaces in which the ship’s radio or main navigating equipment or the
emergency source of power is located or where the fire recording or fire control equipment is located.

9 Flash Point
Flash point is the lowest temperature at which a combustible liquid gives off vapor in sufficient
concentration to form an ignitable mixture with the air near the surface of the liquid. Flash points
specified in these Rules are determined by means of the closed cup test.

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001 69
Part 5 Specialized Vessels and Services
Chapter 11 Oil Recovery Vessels
Section 2 Definitions 5-11-2

11 Hazardous Locations
Hazardous Locations are those areas where fire or explosion hazards may exist due to flammable
gases, vapors, or liquids. Such locations include the following:
i) The internal space of recovered oil tanks and pipes.
ii) Enclosed spaces immediately adjacent to recovered oil tanks in any direction.
iii) Recovered oil pump rooms and oil handling areas.
iv) The area within a 3 m (10 ft) radius of any tank opening, recovered oil tank vent, recovered
oil pipe flange or valve, and entrance or ventilation opening to any hazardous space.

13 Machinery Space
Machinery Spaces are those spaces and trunks to such spaces which contain propelling machinery,
boilers, oil fuel units, steam and internal combustion engines, generators and major electrical
machinery, oil filling stations, thermal oil heaters, refrigerating, stabilizing, ventilation and air
conditioning machinery.

15 Pump Room
Pump Rooms are those spaces that contain recovered oil transfer pumps, manifolds, separators or any
other recovered oil handling equipment.

17 Oil
The term Oil refers to petroleum or petroleum products having flash points at or below 60°C (140°F),
closed cup test, and specific gravity of not over 1.05, except where specifically indicated as oil having
a flash point above 60°C (140°F).

19 Service Space
Service Spaces are those spaces used for galleys, pantries containing cooking appliances, lockers,
store rooms, workshops other than those forming part of the machinery spaces, and similar spaces and
trunks to such spaces.

70 ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001
PART

5
CHAPTER 11 Oil Recovery Vessels

SECTION 3 Hull Construction and Equipment

1 General
Vessels intended for recovery of oil of an unknown flash point are to be constructed in accordance
with the relevant structural requirements for vessels intended to carry oil having a flash point of 60°C
(140°F) or less in bulk (i.e., Oil Carrier) and the following additional requirements. Refer to Part 5,
Chapter 2 of the Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels.

3 Tank Arrangement

3.1 Location and Separation of Recovered Oil Tanks


Tanks for recovered oil may be located forward or aft of machinery, service, control and
accommodation spaces. Recovered oil tanks are to be isolated from such spaces by means of a
cofferdam. For the purposes of this requirement, void spaces, pump rooms, fuel oil tanks and
compartments arranged solely for ballast may be considered cofferdams.

3.3 Location of Recovered Oil Tank Openings


Openings from recovered oil storage tanks including sounding pipes, vents and hatches are not to be
located in enclosed spaces. For the purposes of this requirement, spaces open on one side only are to
be considered enclosed.

3.5 Penetration of Recovered Oil Tanks


Electrical cables and piping not related to the transfer of recovered oil are not to pass through
recovered oil storage tanks unless enclosed within an oil tight trunk.

5 Structural Fire Protection

5.1 Fire Integrity of Exterior Bulkheads


For superstructures and deck houses, the exterior bulkheads facing the cargo area and side bulkheads
within a distance of 3 m (10 ft) from the end bulkhead facing the cargo area are to be of steel
construction and insulated to “A-60” standard as defined in Chapter II-2/Regulation 3 of the
International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) 1974, as amended.

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001 71
Part 5 Specialized Vessels and Services
Chapter 11 Oil Recovery Vessels
Section 3 Hull Construction and Equipment 5-11-3

5.3 Openings in Exterior Bulkheads


There are to be no openings in the exterior bulkheads facing the cargo area and in the bulkheads not
facing the cargo area within a distance of 3 m (10 ft) from the end bulkhead facing the cargo area with
the exception of the following:

5.3.1 Navigation Bridge Doors and Windows


Navigation bridge doors and windows may be located within the above limits provided they
are capable of rapidly and efficiently being made gas tight.

5.3.2 Access to Accommodations


Doors located above the first tier on the main deck may be installed within the above limits
provided they are located at least 3 m (10 ft) away from the cargo tanks. Doors, including
those in the first tier on the main deck, may also be installed within the above limits if they
are fitted with an air lock arrangement as described in 5-11-3/11.

5.3.3 Portlights
Portlights may be located within the above limits provided they are of the fixed (non-opening)
type. Where such portlights are installed in the first tier on the main deck, they are to be fitted
with deadlights constructed of steel or other equivalent material.
Where compliance with this requirement is not possible due to the size of the vessel, openings
in the side bulkheads may be permitted within the above limits provided they are located as
far as reasonable and practicable from the cargo tanks and outside the limits of all hazardous
areas. Refer to 5-11-2/11.

5.3.4 Vessels of 500 Gross Tons and Above


Oil recovery vessels of 500 gross tons and above intended for unrestricted service are to
comply with the fire safety measures listed in 3-4-1/5.3 for tankers intended to carry low flash
point cargoes.

7 Spill Coaming
Oil handling spaces on deck are to be provided with a coaming around all pumps, transfer flanges and
other connections where leakage may be expected. Each coaming is to be adequately sized to contain
deck spills and prevent recovered oil from entering accommodation, machinery, control and service
spaces or passing overboard. The coaming is to have a height of at least 150 mm (6 in.).
Where drains are provided for the coaming, closing devices for these drains are to be permanently
attached.

9 Pump Rooms
Bulkheads for recovered oil pump rooms are to be gastight for isolation of these spaces from spaces
containing stoves, boilers, internal-combustion engines, propelling machinery, electrical apparatus or
machinery where sources of ignition are normally present. These bulkheads are to comply with
Section 3-2-7.

72 ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001
Part 5 Specialized Vessels and Services
Chapter 11 Oil Recovery Vessels
Section 3 Hull Construction and Equipment 5-11-3

11 Accommodation Spaces
Direct access between accommodation spaces and hazardous spaces is not permitted. However,
indirect access with self-closing gastight doors and a mechanical ventilating system to maintain the
accommodations at an overpressure relative to the hazardous space is acceptable. See 5-11-4/11.1 and
5-11-4/11.7.

13 Machinery Spaces
Direct access between machinery spaces and hazardous spaces (other than tanks and cofferdams) is to
be through self-closing gastight doors with a mechanical ventilation system to maintain the machinery
space at an overpressure relative to the hazardous space. See 5-11-4/11.1 and 5-11-4/11.7.

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001 73
5
CHAPTER 11 Oil Recovery Vessels

SECTION 4 Machinery Equipment and


Systems

CONTENTS
1 General................................................................................... 77
3 Machinery Installation........................................................... 77
3.1 Engine Exhausts and Intakes................................................. 77
3.3 Pipes in Hazardous Areas...................................................... 77
3.5 Pipes and Cables in Recovered Oil Tanks............................. 77
3.7 Propulsion Shafting ................................................................ 77
5 Recovered Oil Piping Systems ............................................. 78
5.1 General................................................................................... 78
5.3 Recovered Oil Pumps ............................................................ 78
5.5 Relief Valves........................................................................... 78
5.7 Pressure Gauges ................................................................... 78
5.9 Piping in Machinery Spaces ................................................... 78
5.11 Piping in Fuel Oil Tanks ......................................................... 78
5.13 Piping in Ballast Tanks ........................................................... 78
5.15 Bow or Stern Discharge ......................................................... 78
7 Tank Venting Systems .......................................................... 79
7.1 General................................................................................... 79
7.3 Height ..................................................................................... 79
7.5 Size......................................................................................... 79
7.7 Location .................................................................................. 79
7.9 Portable Vent Pipes................................................................ 79
7.11 Liquid Level Control................................................................ 79
9 Electrical Equipment and Hazardous Areas ........................ 80
9.1 Electrical Equipment in Hazardous Areas.............................. 80
9.3 Explosion-proof and Intrinsically-safe Equipment .................. 80
9.5 Pressurized Enclosure Type Equipment ................................ 80
9.7 Non-permanent Equipment .................................................... 80
11 Ventilation Systems .............................................................. 80

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001 75
11.1 General................................................................................... 80
11.3 Pump Room Ventilation.......................................................... 80
11.5 Ventilation of Other Hazardous Areas.................................... 81
11.7 Ventilation of Non-hazardous Spaces .................................... 81
13 Fire Extinguishing Systems and Equipment........................81
13.1 Deck Area............................................................................... 81
13.3 Pump Rooms.......................................................................... 81
13.5 Gas Measuring Instrument ..................................................... 81

76 ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001
PART

5
CHAPTER 11 Oil Recovery Vessels

SECTION 4 Machinery Equipment and


Systems

1 General
Machinery equipment and systems for oil recovery vessels are to be constructed and installed to the
satisfaction of the Surveyor in accordance with the machinery requirements of these Rules and the
following additional requirements. Special machinery requirements contained in the Rules for vessels
classed as Oil Carrier are not necessarily applicable for vessels classed as Oil Recovery Vessel
unless specifically referenced herein.

3 Machinery Installation

3.1 Engine Exhausts and Intakes


Exhaust outlets of internal-combustion engines and boilers are to be located outside of hazardous
areas. Exhaust outlets are to be fitted with spark arrestors. Air intakes are to be not less than 3 m
(10 ft) from hazardous areas.

3.3 Pipes in Hazardous Areas


Exhaust pipes or any other pipes with surface temperatures exceeding 220°C (428°F) are not to pass
through gas hazardous spaces. See 5-11-2/11.

3.5 Pipes and Cables in Recovered Oil Tanks


For piping or cables which pass through tanks for recovered oil, refer to 5-11-3/3.

3.7 Propulsion Shafting


Where machinery spaces are located forward of recovered oil storage tanks, as permitted by
5-11-3/3.1, propulsion shafting is not to be led through the tanks and is to be effectively grounded.

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001 77
Part 5 Specialized Vessels and Services
Chapter 11 Oil Recovery Vessels
Section 4 Machinery Equipment and Systems 5-11-4

5 Recovered Oil Piping Systems

5.1 General
A fixed recovered oil transfer system which is independent of all other piping systems is to be
provided. The recovered oil piping system is to comply with the applicable requirements of and the
following additional requirements.

5.3 Recovered Oil Pumps


Recovered oil pumps are to be so designed as to minimize the danger of sparking. Care is to be taken
in installation of the pumps to prevent leaks at the stuffing box. Where the shafts pass through
gastight bulkheads, flexible couplings are to be provided in shafts between pumps and prime movers,
and stuffing boxes which can be lubricated from outside the pump room are to be fitted at the
bulkheads. The seal parts of the glands are to be of non-sparking construction. If a bellows piece is
incorporated in the design, it is to be pressure tested before being fitted.

5.5 Relief Valves


A relief valve of suitable type is to be installed in the discharge of each recovered oil pump and piped
back to the suction. Such valves need not be fitted when the system is served only by centrifugal
pumps so designed that the pressure delivered cannot exceed that for which the piping is designed.

5.7 Pressure Gauges


One pressure gauge for each recovered oil transfer pump is to be located at the pump discharge and,
where the pumps are operated by engines external to the pump room, additional gauges are to be
provided which are to be visible from the operating station.

5.9 Piping in Machinery Spaces


Recovered oil transfer systems are not to pass through machinery spaces except for runs of all welded
pipe which are to be provided with a positive closing valve, located outside the machinery space and
operable from an accessible location on the open deck, to stop the flow of oil in the event of a fire or
leak.
Recovered oil piping system components, such as pumps, manifolds, valves, flanges, slip-joints and
other sources of vapor leakage are not to be located within machinery spaces.

5.11 Piping in Fuel Oil Tanks


Recovered oil piping is not to pass through fuel oil tanks unless it is all welded pipe without valves,
flanges, fittings, or take-down joints.

5.13 Piping in Ballast Tanks


Recovered oil piping passing through ballast tanks is to be steel and Extra-Heavy (see 4-4-1/7.11);
special consideration will be given to ferrous materials having corrosion resistant properties.
Provisions are to be made for expansion of the piping within the tank.

5.15 Bow or Stern Discharge (1998)


Where bow or stern discharge connections are provided, cargo lines forward or aft of the cargo area
are to be led outside accommodation spaces, service spaces, machinery spaces and control stations.
Pipe joints outside the cargo area are to be welded except for connections to the manifold or
equipment.

78 ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001
Part 5 Specialized Vessels and Services
Chapter 11 Oil Recovery Vessels
Section 4 Machinery Equipment and Systems 5-11-4

The cargo discharge lines are to be clearly identified and provided with means to segregate them from
the cargo main line when not in use. The segregation is to be achieved by either two valves, located in
the cargo area, which can be locked in the closed position, and fitted with means to detect leakage past
the valves; or by one valve together with another closing device providing an equivalent standard of
segregation, such as a removable spool piece or spectacle flange.
The discharge connection is to be fitted with a shut-off valve and a blank flange. The blank flange
may be omitted if an equivalent means of closing is incorporated in the connection to the hose
coupling.
Arrangements are to be provided for cargo lines outside the cargo area for easy draining to a slop tank
or cargo tank and for cleaning and inerting. Spill containment is to be provided under the discharge
manifolds. The space within 3 m (10 ft) of the manifold and oil spill containment boundary is to be
considered as a restricted area with regard to electrical equipment or other sources of vapor ignition.

7 Tank Venting Systems

7.1 General
Each recovered oil storage tank is to be fitted with a pressure-vacuum type relief valve, or a suitably
sized vent pipe is to be led from each tank into a common header fitted with an approved flame
arrestor or pressure-vacuum relief valve at the outlet to the atmosphere. Means are to be provided to
prevent any tank from being subjected to excessive pressure during any phase of the recovered oil
handling process. Vent outlets are to direct gases upwards.

7.3 Height
Where the vent pipes from two or more tanks are led into a common header, the outlet from the
header is to be located a minimum height of 2 m (6.6 ft) above the freeboard deck.

7.5 Size
The vent pipes, or overflows if fitted, are to be sized for 125% of the maximum loading rate to
prevent the pressure in any recovered oil storage tank from exceeding the design pressure; however,
the diameter of each vent pipe is to be not less than 63 mm (2.5 in.) I.D.

7.7 Location
Vent outlets from recovered oil storage tanks are to be located a horizontal distance of greater than
3 m (10 ft) away from openings to accommodation and other gas-safe spaces, ventilation intakes, non-
certified safe electrical equipment and other machinery and equipment which may constitute an
ignition hazard.

7.9 Portable Vent Pipes


Portable vent pipes, intended for use during oil spill recovery operations only, will be specially
considered.

7.11 Liquid Level Control


Provision is to be made to guard against liquid rising in the venting system to a height that would
exceed to design head of the tanks. This may be accomplished by using high level alarms or overflow
control systems or other equivalent means, together with gauging devices and tank filling procedures.

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001 79
Part 5 Specialized Vessels and Services
Chapter 11 Oil Recovery Vessels
Section 4 Machinery Equipment and Systems 5-11-4

9 Electrical Equipment and Hazardous Areas

9.1 Electrical Equipment in Hazardous Areas


Except as permitted in 5-11-3/3.5, electrical equipment and wiring are not to be installed in hazardous
locations unless essential for operational purposes. Where it is necessary to install electrical
equipment within enclosed hazardous spaces, the equipment is to be intrinsically-safe or pressurized
enclosure type, except that equipment of an approved explosion-proof type may be used in pump
rooms or in other enclosed spaces which are ventilated in accordance with 5-11-4/11.5. Electrical
equipment installed within hazardous areas on the open deck, as defined in 5-11-2/11iii) and
5-11-2/11iv), is to be of an approved explosion-proof type, intrinsically-safe or pressurized enclosure
type. Cables installed within hazardous locations are to be in accordance with 4-6-3/11.1.3 and
4-6-6/1.9.2 except that flexible unarmored cables, where necessary, may be installed provided they
are of heavy duty type. Additionally, the requirements of 4-6-6/1.7 through 4-6-6/1.17 are generally
applicable.

9.3 Explosion-proof and Intrinsically-safe Equipment


Where electrical equipment is required to be explosion-proof or intrinsically-safe, the equipment is to
comply with 4-6-3/11.3.

9.5 Pressurized Enclosure Type Equipment


Pressurized enclosure type equipment used in hazardous areas is to comply with NFPA 496, IEC
60079-2 or an equivalent standard.

9.7 Non-permanent Equipment


The arrangement of power supply to non-permanent oil skimming and pumping equipment is as far as
practicable to be permanently installed. Power outlets are to be arranged from a connection box
provided with a means to prevent disconnection of the portable cable unless power has been removed
from the cable (i.e., a door with interlock switch). The supply from the main switchboard to the
connection box is to be permanently installed and provided with a separate switchgear with short-
circuit and overcurrent protection. These boxes are to be located at easily accessible locations outside
of hazardous areas and in such a manner that portable cables are not carried through doors or
portlights leading from the working deck area to machinery or accommodation spaces. Additionally,
non-permanent oil skimming and pumping equipment (including cables) and independent power
packages are to be certified as safe for operation in a gas hazardous atmosphere. See 5-11-4/9.1.

11 Ventilation Systems

11.1 General
Ventilation systems for gas hazardous and non-hazardous spaces are to be independent of each other.
Ventilation inlets are to be located in a safe area on the open deck and as far as practicable from gas
hazardous areas. The air outlet is generally to be located in a non-hazardous area on the open deck.

11.3 Pump Room Ventilation


Recovered oil pump rooms are to have a mechanical ventilating system capable of providing at least
twenty air changes per hour based on the gross volume of the space. The system is to have a
mechanical exhaust, natural or mechanical supply, and ducting as required to effectively purge all
areas of the space. Fan motors are to be located outside the space and outside the ventilation ducts.

80 ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001
Part 5 Specialized Vessels and Services
Chapter 11 Oil Recovery Vessels
Section 4 Machinery Equipment and Systems 5-11-4

Fans are to be of non-sparking construction in accordance with 4-6-3/11.7. Provision is to be made for
immediate shutdown of the fan motors upon release of the fire extinguishing medium.

11.5 Ventilation of Other Hazardous Areas


Enclosed hazardous areas (other than tanks and cofferdams) which do not contain sources for vapor
leakage such as pumps, manifold, flanges or valves for recovered oil systems are to have a mechanical
ventilating system capable of providing at least eight air changes per hour based on the gross volume
of the space. The system is to have a mechanical exhaust, natural or mechanical supply, and ducting
as required to effectively purge all areas of the space. Construction and location of fan motors are to
be as required by 5-11-4/11.3.

11.7 Ventilation of Non-hazardous Spaces


Non-hazardous spaces having access to gas hazardous spaces are to be provided with self-closing,
gastight doors and a mechanical ventilating system to maintain the space at overpressure relative to
the gas hazardous area. Loss of ventilation is to be alarmed on the navigating bridge. See also
5-11-3/11 and 5-11-3/13.

13 Fire Extinguishing Systems and Equipment

13.1 Deck Area


The following fire fighting equipment is to be provided for protection of the operating deck area.

13.1.1 Fire Extinguishers


Two dry powder fire extinguishers, each with a capacity of at least 50 kg (110 lb), are to be
provided. The fire extinguishers are to be located in the vicinity of the deck area where the
equipment for handling of recovered oil is located and are to be fitted with hoses of adequate
length to reach the oil handling equipment.

13.1.2 Portable Foam Applicator Units


Two portable foam applicator units are to be provided. A portable foam applicator unit is to
consist of an air-foam nozzle of an inductor type capable of being connected to the fire main
by a fire hose together with a portable tank containing at least 20 liters (5 U.S. gallons) of
foam-making liquid. The nozzle is to be capable of producing effective foam suitable for
extinguishing an oil fire, at the rate of at least 90 m3/hr (3180 ft3/hr). A total of at least eight
portable tanks of foam-making liquid are to be supplied on board. In instances where, due to
the size of the vessel, only one fire hydrant is required to be fitted, the vessel need only be
provided with one portable foam applicator unit.

13.3 Pump Rooms


Recovered oil pump rooms are to be provided with an approved fixed fire extinguishing system
controlled from a readily accessible position outside the pump room. See also 5-11-4/11.3.

13.5 Gas Measuring Instrument


A portable hydrocarbon gas measuring instrument of an approved type is to be provided on board the
vessel.

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001 81
PART

5
CHAPTER 11 Oil Recovery Vessels

SECTION 5 Vessels Intended for Recovery of


Oil with a Flash Point Above 60°C
(140°F)

1 General
Vessels intended for recovery of oil having a flash point, at the time of recovery, exceeding 60°C
(140°F) may, at the discretion of the Owner, comply with the requirements of Sections 5-11-3 and
5-11-4. Indication that vessels have been constructed to the requirements of this subsection will be
included in the Class designation in accordance with 5-11-1/1.3.

3 Hull Construction and Equipment

3.1 General
Oil Recovery Vessels of Class 2 are to be constructed in accordance with the relevant structural
requirements for vessels intended to carry fuel oil having a flash point above 60°C (140°F) in bulk
(i.e., Fuel Oil Carrier) and the following additional requirements.

3.3 Tank Arrangement


The requirement for location of recovered oil tank openings in 5-11-3/3.3 is applicable.

3.5 Vessels of 500 Gross Tons and Above


Oil recovery vessels of 500 gross tons and above intended for unrestricted service are to comply with
the fire safety measures listed in 3-4-1/5.3 for tankers intended to carry high flash point cargoes.

3.7 Spill Coaming


The requirement for spill coamings in 5-11-3/7 is applicable.

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001 83
Part 5 Specialized Vessels and Services
Chapter 11 Oil Recovery Vessels
Section 5 Vessels Intended for Recovery of Oil with a Flash Point Above 60°C (140°F) 5-11-5

5 Machinery Equipment and Systems

5.1 General
Machinery equipment and systems for Oil Recovery Vessel of Class 2 are to be constructed and
installed to the satisfaction of the Surveyor in accordance with the machinery requirements of these
Rules and the following additional requirements.

5.3 Machinery Installation


The requirements for engine exhausts and propulsion shafting in 5-11-4/3.1 and 5-11-4/3.7,
respectively, are applicable.

5.5 Recovered Oil Piping Systems


Recovered oil piping systems are to be in accordance with 5-11-4/5 except that compliance with
5-11-4/5.9 and 5-11-4/5.15 is not required. Recovered oil piping systems passing through machinery
spaces are to be in accordance with the requirements for fuel oil transfer systems. See 4-4-4/1 and
4-4-4/3.

5.7 Tank Venting Systems


A tank venting system complying with 5-11-4/7 is to be provided for recovered oil storage tanks.
Alternatively, a venting system consisting of individual return-bend vents with corrosion resistant
flame screens may be provided. Refer to 4-4-3/9.

5.9 Pump Room Ventilation


Recovered oil pumps room is to be ventilated in accordance with 5-11-4/11 except that the ventilation
system need be capable of providing only eight air changes per hour.

5.11 Fire Extinguishing Equipment


The fire fighting equipment indicated in 5-11-4/13.1 is to be provided for protection of the operating
deck area. In addition, the portable hydrocarbon gas measuring instrument described in 5-11-4/13.5 is
to be provided.

84 ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001
PART

5
CHAPTER 12 Safety Standby Service Vessels
(2001)

CONTENTS
SECTION 1 General .................................................................... 87
1 Classification .......................................................... 87
3 Submission of Plans............................................... 87
SECTION 2 Definitions ............................................................... 89
1 Safety Standby Service.......................................... 89
3 Survivor .................................................................. 89
SECTION 3 General Requirements............................................ 91
1 Speed and Maneuverability.................................... 91
3 Navigation Bridge ................................................... 91
5 Other Deckhouses ................................................. 92
7 Rescue Zone .......................................................... 92
9 Recovery from the Sea .......................................... 92
11 Load Line................................................................ 92
13 Intact Stability ......................................................... 93
SECTION 4 Accommodations for Survivors ............................. 95
1 Required Space Allotments.................................... 95
3 Casualty Area......................................................... 96
SECTION 5 Rescue and Safety Equipment ............................... 99
1 Rescue Boats ......................................................... 99
3 Rescue Nets........................................................... 99
5 Searchlights............................................................ 99
7 Water Spraying System ....................................... 100
9 Gas Detection....................................................... 100
11 Person Overboard Alarm ..................................... 100
13 Deck Lighting........................................................ 100
15 Helicopter Winching ............................................. 100
17 Towing.................................................................. 100
19 Medical Stores...................................................... 100
21 Miscellaneous....................................................... 101
SECTION 6 Navigation and Communication Equipment ....... 103
1 Navigational Equipment ....................................... 103
3 Radio and Communication Equipment ............... 103
SECTION 7 Surveys.................................................................. 105

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001 85
PART

5
CHAPTER 12 Safety Standby Service Vessels
(2001)

SECTION 1 General

1 Classification
In accordance with 1-1-3/3, the classification À A1 Safety Standby Service is to be assigned to
vessels which have been built in accordance with these requirements and other relevant sections of the
Rules, and approved by the Committee for safety standby service at the assigned freeboards. In
addition an entry will be made in column 5 of the Record, indicating the class designation together
with the number of survivors the vessel has been certified to accommodate [e.g. GR A – (320),
GR B – (250), GR C – (15), etc.].

3 Submission of Plans
In addition to the plans required to be submitted by Section 1-1-7 and 4-1-1/7, the following plans are
to be submitted in the same manner:
An operating booklet is to be provided and sighted by the Surveyor on board the vessel. It is
to include information on the use of safety and rescue equipment and procedures to be
followed to evacuate persons from an offshore structure, from another vessel or for rescue
from the sea, as well as information on the arrangements and use of the ship's radio
communication equipment required by these Rules. In addition, it is to contain stability
information as required by 5-12-3/9.
General arrangement (including accommodations for survivors)
Rescue and safety, equipment
The following drawings are to be submitted for reference:
Lines and offsets
Curves of form, or equivalent
Cross curves of stability
Capacity plan, giving centers of gravity and tank free surface corrections

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001 87
PART

5
CHAPTER 12 Safety Standby Service Vessels

SECTION 2 Definitions

1 Safety Standby Service


A vessel classed for Safety Standby Service is an unrestricted service vessel which has been adapted
and has special features for the evacuation and reception of personnel from an offshore installation
and the rescue and care of persons from another vessel or from the sea. Vessels which have been
designed and constructed for other purposes, such as offshore supply, fire fighting, diving support,
etc. may be classed for safety standby service, provided the requirements of these Rules are complied
with.
Depending on the number of survivors the vessel is capable of accommodating, safety standby vessels
are categorized in three groups, as indicated in the following table:
Category Number of Survivors, N Lf in meters (feet) Class Designation in the
(see note 1) Record (see note 2)
Group A N > 300 ≥ 35 (115) GR A – (N)
Group B 300 ≥ N ≥ 20 ≥ 35 (115) GR B – (N)
Group C N < 20 ≥ 30 (98.5) GR C - (N)

Note:
1 possible accommodation for the onboard installation.
2 the class notation together with the number of survivors, (N), in parenthesis will be entered in column 5
of the Record.

3 Survivor
A person evacuated from an offshore installation or from another vessel on account of an emergency
or rescued from the sea.

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001 89
PART

5
CHAPTER 12 Safety Standby Service Vessels

SECTION 3 General Requirements

1 Speed and Maneuverability


The vessel is to be capable of developing a trial speed of not less than 10 knots in calm weather and is
to be equipped with one of the following:
i) A 360 degree azimuthing thruster unit and either single screw propulsion with reversing
gearbox or controllable pitch propeller. The thruster unit is to be capable of developing an
ahead speed of 4 knots and is not to be dependent on the main engine for its source of power.
ii) Twin screw propulsion and forward side thruster unit arrangement such that the vessel is
capable of developing 4 knots in the ahead direction, in calm weather, with one main
propulsion unit out of action.
iii) Equivalent main and maneuvering propulsion systems providing similar level of redundancy
and maneuvering capabilities.
iv) Control of the propulsion machinery and station keeping system by one person on the
navigation bridge is to be possible.

3 Navigation Bridge

3.1 Visibility
The navigation bridge is to extend across the breadth of the vessel and is to be so located and arranged
so that there is an unobstructed view all around, as far as the required size of the mullions permits, and
in particular a clear view of the area where rescue operations will be carried out.
In general the navigation bridge is to be not lower than the second tier above the forecastle deck.

3.3 Structure
The stiffening is to be arranged so that mullion stiffeners are continuous between decks, with
horizontal stiffeners intercostal between the mullion stiffeners. The front, end and side stiffeners are
to be in alignment with the stiffeners of the deckhouse below.
The stiffeners and plating are to be in accordance with Section 3-2-9. As the second tier above the
forecastle deck, h for front stiffeners not taken less than 2.5 m and for side stiffeners not less than 1.70
m. The ratio of tween deck height to mullion stiffener depth is to not exceed 18 for front mullions and
30 for side mullions.
Flat bars are not to be used for mullion stiffeners, where used elsewhere, flat bars are to have a depth
to thickness not greater than 10.

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001 91
Part 5 Specialized Vessels and Services
Chapter 12 Safety Standby Service Vessels
Section 3 General Requirements 5-12-3

3.5 Windows
Windows are to be in accordance with International or National marine standards in which the design
pressures are given in terms of the windows longitudinal location and height above the design
waterline.
The thickness of the toughened safety glass is to be determined from the equations in the standard
based on design pressure and size of window. Windows are to be fitted from the outside.
Bridge front windows and those of the forward end of the bridge sides are to be provided with
efficient means of being blanked off, internally or externally.
Portable storm shutters may be used for this purpose, provided they are stowed in an accessible
position, so as to be readily mounted and secured. Sufficient storm shutters are to be carried to cover
any three bridge front and side windows. Storm shutters are to be of strength equivalent to the
bulkhead and are to provide at least limited visibility from the bridge.
Polarized or tinted windows are not to be fitted. See also 3-2-14/9.

5 Other Deckhouses
Other deckhouses are to be in accordance with 5-10-3/9. Deckhouses other than the navigation bridge
are not to be fitted with windows. Where portlights are fitted they are to be provided with deadlights.

7 Rescue Zone
A rescue zone with a length of not less than 5 m (16.4 ft.) is to be established and extended as far as
possible on each side of the vessel. This zone is to be located well clear of the propellers and as close
to midships as practicable, with a clear deck area port to starboard to permit the boarding of survivors
and to carry on rescue operations. Bulwarks or railings in the rescue zone are to be provided with
gates or chains which are readily openable or removable. Arrangements are to be provided for
deploying boarding nets and for attachment of lifelines. In general, the rescue zone is to be free of
hull fittings and projections and overboard discharges which would impede rescue operations.
Electric lights in watertight fixtures are to be provided to illuminate the rescue zones and reception
areas. Rescue zones are to be marked so as to be readily identified from seaward.

9 Recovery from the Sea


Every safety standby service vessel is to be provided with a system to aid access up the ship's side
from the sea or from a rescue boat alongside. This system is to provide a more rigid non-slip
climbing and grip surface than is provided by traditional rope scramble nets and is to be constructed
from materials that are resistant to the marine environment. The system is to be designed to avoid
injury to survivors and is to be secured to the vessel in such away that it will hang clear of the ship's
side by at least 0.25 m (10 in.) when deployed. In addition, every safety standby vessel is to be
provided with at least one power assisted method of recovering disabled persons from the sea.

11 Load Line
A vessel to be classed for safety standby service is to have a load line certificate, and the loading
condition of the vessel on safety standby service is to be such that the highest freeboard mark would
not be submerged if the number of survivors for which vessel is certified would be taken aboard.
Weight of survivors is to be taken as 75 kg (165 lb.) each.

92 ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001
Part 5 Specialized Vessels and Services
Chapter 12 Safety Standby Service Vessels
Section 3 General Requirements 5-12-3

The freeboard in the rescue zone area is not to exceed 1.75 m (5.74 ft.). A higher freeboard may be
approved for exposed locations if the ability to recover persons from the sea can be proved.

13 Intact Stability
The intact stability of the vessel for safety standby service is to comply with a recognized standard.
The submission of evidence showing approval by an Administration will be acceptable.
Alternatively, upon request the review will be performed by the Bureau. See Appendix 5-10-A1 for
criteria applied by the Bureau.

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PART

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CHAPTER 12 Safety Standby Service Vessels

SECTION 4 Accommodations for Survivors

1 Required Space Allotments

1.1 General Requirements


Spaces provided for shelter of the survivors are to be enclosed from the weather and provided with
heat, light and ventilation. In an emergency, survivors may be lodged in crew accommodations,
except for sanitary areas, galleys, berths for the master and two crew members, the radio room, the
wheelhouse and main access passage ways which are to be clear.
The General Arrangement drawing required by 5-12-1/3 is to contain dimensioned spaces for those
individual seating areas required in this section.

1.3 Seating
Seats of the number specified in the table below, including those in the reception areas and crew
accommodations, are to be available for the survivors.
Category Number of Seats
Group A 66
Group B 50
Group C 20

1.5 Sanitary Facilities


Wash basins, showers and toilets, which may include those provided for the crew, are to be not less
than the following:

Category Wash Hand Showers WCs (of Fresh Potable Water


Basins which 3 may Water Tank Tank
be chemical) Capacity Capacity
(tonnes) (tonnes)
Group A 13 13 13 6 6
Group B 10 10 10 5 4
Group C 4 4 4 2 2

For the survivors’ consumption, the vessel is to be provided with a fresh water tank and a potable
water tank of the capacities specified in the above table.

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001 95
Part 5 Specialized Vessels and Services
Chapter 12 Safety Standby Service Vessels
Section 4 Accommodations for Survivors 5-12-4

3 Casualty Area
The casualty area is to be external to the crew accommodation and is to provide ready access from the
survivor rescue area. Transfer of survivors to the helicopter winching area is to be considered, and
easy-unobstructed access is to be arranged. The Treatment Room, Reception Area and at least 12 of
the Recovery Area berths (including the 2 singles) are to be located on the same deck as the Rescue
zones unless special arrangements for casualty transfer are approved by the Administration.
The casualty area is to consist of the following areas designed to allow the easy flow of survivors.
The spaces are to be clearly marked for ease of distribution of survivors and are to be consisted of:
Decontamination Area
Reception Area
Treatment Area
Recovery Area
Sanitary Area

3.1 Decontamination Area


Decontamination Area, which may only be partially enclosed is to be equipped with a shower system
suitable for overall cleaning of survivors and crew members before they proceed into reception
facilities.

3.3 Reception Area


Reception Area is to be a well lit, heated and ventilated space with 5 seats for survivors.

3.5 Treatment Area


Treatment Area is to be provided with a deck area of 15 m2 (161.4 ft2) with deck scuppers and access
and exits for easy transportation of stretchers. The space is to be well lit, heated and ventilated.

3.7 Recovery Area


Recovery Area is to be separated from, but near to the treatment area for monitoring the injured and is
to be provided with a well lit, heated and ventilated space to accommodate survivors’ berths of the
number given in the table below. All survivors’ berths are to be accessible by stretcher.
Category Survivors’ Berths Single Tier Berths
(see Note 1)
Group A 26 2
Group B 20 2
Group C 10 2
Note:
1 The number of single tier berths is included in the total number of survivors’ berths, not in addition to
that number.

3.9 Sanitary Area


Showers, WCs and wash hand basins are to be provided in the treatment/recovery area, as specified in
the table below. These are to be included in the total indicated above under “Sanitary Facilities”.

96 ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001
Part 5 Specialized Vessels and Services
Chapter 12 Safety Standby Service Vessels
Section 4 Accommodations for Survivors 5-12-4

Category Wash Hand Showers WCs (of


Basins which 3 may
be chemical)
Group A 5 5 5
Group B 4 4 4
Group C 2 2 2

3.11 Morgue
Facilities for shelving and securement are to be provided to store the number of bodies specified in the
table below in a cool ventilated space. This space is to be screened from survivors.
Category Number of Bodies
Group A 13
Group B 10
Group C 4

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001 97
PART

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CHAPTER 12 Safety Standby Service Vessels

SECTION 5 Rescue and Safety Equipment

1 Rescue Boats
A sufficient number of power-driven rescue boats having the following capacity are to be provided
and kept ready for immediate use.
Category Number of Capacity of Number of Crew
Rescue Boats Rescue Boat
Group A 3 15 persons/boat 3/boat
Group B 2 15 persons/boat 3/boat
Group C 1 15 persons/boat 3/boat
1 9 persons/boat 2/boat

For Group C vessel, either rescue boat is to be kept ready for immediate use.
Rescue boats, which may be of rigid or inflated construction or a combination of both, and launching
arrangements, are to meet the requirements of Chapter III, Regulation 47 and 48 (as applicable) of the
SOLAS 74, as amended and Chapters V and VI of the International Life-Saving Appliance (LSA)
Code (as applicable) Resolution MSC.48(66)
Rescue boats are to be capable of maneuvering, for at least 4 hours, at a speed of at least 20 knots in
calm water.

3 Rescue Nets
A rescue net is to be provided at each rescue zone. Nets are to be not less than 5 m (16.25 ft) wide,
weighted at the bottom and long enough to extend at least 1 m (3.25 ft.) below the waterline with the
vessel at light draft.

5 Searchlights
The safety standby vessel is to have at least two searchlights capable of 50 lux at 250 meters (820 ft)
with 360 degrees rotation adjustable from inside the navigating bridge.

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001 99
Part 5 Specialized Vessels and Services
Chapter 12 Safety Standby Service Vessels
Section 5 Rescue and Safety Equipment 5-12-5

7 Water Spraying System


A water spray system is to be installed to protect from heat and fire those engaged in rescue
operations on exposed deck areas, the boundaries of control stations and accommodations areas. The
system is to be capable of covering all areas mentioned above with a uniformly distributed water
spray of at least 5 liters/minute/square meter area.

9 Gas Detection
Effective gas detection equipment, which does not rely on continuous manual operation, is to be
provided together with instructions for use and testing. Such equipment may be portable and/or fixed.

11 Person Overboard Alarm


A bridge operated “person overboard” general alarm is to be installed which is clearly audible
throughout the vessel and is separated and distinct from all other alarms.

13 Deck Lighting
Lighting is to be provided in the following areas from both the main and emergency source of power.
The latter is to be capable of providing lighting for a minimum period of 30 minutes and is to be
located outside the main machinery space.
i) to illuminate the rescue boat stowage locations, launching appliances, reception and rescue
areas.
ii) to provide floodlighting of the sea in way of the rescue zone and rescue boat launch and
recovery area.
iii) to illuminate the helicopter winching deck area and access routes leading to and from the
reception area.

15 Helicopter Winching
All safety standby vessels are to be provided with a well-lighted, unobstructed deck space for
helicopter winching.

17 Towing
All safety standby vessels are to be provided with means for towing liferafts and lifeboats.

19 Medical Stores
Medical stores are to be provided in accordance with local regulations. The minimum to be provided
is to be in any case equivalent to that required by the United Kingdom Merchant Shipping (Medical
Scales) Regulations 1974 (S.I. No. 1193 of 1974) Scale III of Schedule I, supplemented by the
following:

100 ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001
Part 5 Specialized Vessels and Services
Chapter 12 Safety Standby Service Vessels
Section 5 Rescue and Safety Equipment 5-12-5

Medical Stores Item Number


Stretchers 15 basket type, with straps suitable for
transporting patients within the vessel or to
another vessel or helicopter
Blankets 1 for each survivor for which vessel is
certified
Bandages and dressings As specified for Scale III repeated for each 25
survivors
Common splints 6
Anti-hypothermia blankets of heat reflective 2 for each 50 survivors or part thereof
and heat retaining material

All medical stores are to be properly packed and labeled so as to be ready for immediate use and are
to be stowed in a fixed location properly marked.

21 Miscellaneous
The following equipment is to be provided:
Equipment Number
Lifebuoys with 30 m (99 ft.) buoyant lines and buoy lights 8
Lifebuoys with self-igniting lights and smoke signals 2
Lifebuoys with self-igniting lights 2
Safety harness and line with safety hook 3 sets
Line thrower with accessories for at least 12 projectiles 1
Lines suitable for use with line thrower At least 4
Diver’s ladders 2
Extra lifejackets to be carried in addition to the lifejackets 6
required by the relevant regulations

Lifejackets are to comply with regulation 2.2 of the International Life-Saving Appliance (LSA) Code
Resolution MSC.48(66). (It is expected that Survivors who are embarked will be wearing life jackets
from their previous station).

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001 101
PART

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CHAPTER 12 Safety Standby Service Vessels

SECTION 6 Navigation and Communication


Equipment

1 Navigational Equipment
All safety standby vessels, regardless of size, are to be provided with shipborne navigational
equipment as required for new ships by Regulation 12 of Chapter V of SOLAS 74, as amended for
vessels of 500 gross tonnage and upwards, as well as the radio direction-finding equipment and radio
homing equipment specified in paragraphs (p) and (q) of the regulation.

3 Radio and Communication Equipment


As a minimum, vessels classed for Safety Standby Service are to be provided with the following
equipment:
Radio and Communications Equipment Number
Permanently installed single sideband radio telephone station 1
complying with 1974 SOLAS as amended
One Permanently installed maritime VHF radio telephone station 1
complying with 1974 SOLAS as amended
VHF radio telephone with helicopter communication frequencies 1
Helicopter beacon 1
Daylight signaling lamp 1
Transistorized portable loud hailer 2
Portable waterproof VHF radio-telephones 1 for each rescue boat and
for each rescue zone

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CHAPTER 12 Safety Standby Service Vessels

SECTION 7 Surveys

The following surveys are required in addition to those required for classification:
i) An initial survey with full report to confirm compliance with these requirements.
ii) Survey of radio equipment on site to establish comparability of equipment with offshore
installation and shore base.
iii) Annual survey of safety standby vessel requirements.
iv) Survey after each rescue operation or evacuation.
v) Survey of medical stores every 6 months.
Surveys required by items i), iii), and iv) are to be carried out by a Surveyor to the Bureau.
In addition to the above, equipment required by these Rules is to be in accordance with SOLAS.
Although SOLAS certificates may not be required for this equipment, equivalent surveys to those
required by SOLAS are to be carried out by the Surveyor.
Survey required by item v) is to be carried out by a licensed pharmacist subject to the approval of the
Bureau.

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001 105
PART

5
CHAPTER 13 Escort Vessels (1998)

CONTENTS
SECTION 1 General .................................................................. 109
1 Application............................................................ 109
3 Classification ........................................................ 109
5 Record Entries...................................................... 109
SECTION 2 Plans and Data ...................................................... 111
1 Hull and Machinery Plans .................................... 111
3 Stability Information.............................................. 111
5 Bollard Pull ........................................................... 111
7 Dynamic Pull ........................................................ 111
SECTION 3 Definitions ............................................................. 113
1 Dynamic Pull ........................................................ 113
3 Static Bollard Pull ................................................. 114
5 Direct Towing Mode ............................................. 114
7 Indirect Towing Mode........................................... 114
SECTION 4 Intact Stability ....................................................... 115
SECTION 5 Fire Fighting Capability ........................................ 117
SECTION 6 Towing Gear .......................................................... 119
1 Arrangement......................................................... 119
3 Quick Release Device.......................................... 119
5 Strength................................................................ 119
SECTION 7 Vessel Design........................................................ 121
1 Hull Design ........................................................... 121
3 Side Shell and Frames......................................... 121
5 After Deck............................................................. 121
7 Weather Deck Openings ...................................... 121
9 Line Handling Equipment ..................................... 121
11 Fendering ............................................................. 121
13 Equipment ............................................................ 122
SECTION 8 Verification of Steering Capability ....................... 123
1 Full Scale Testing Requirements ......................... 123
3 Computer Model Simulation Requirements ......... 123

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001 107
SECTION 9 Tests and Surveys.................................................125
1 Static Bollard Pull Test ......................................... 125
3 Quick Release Test .............................................. 125
5 Surveys................................................................. 125

108 ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001
PART

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CHAPTER 13 Escort Vessels (1998)

SECTION 1 General

1 Application
The requirements in this section apply to vessels which are intended for escort service (i.e.,
accompanying another vessel in transit). Escort vessels are intended to provide assistance to disabled
vessels in emergencies involving impaired maneuverability due to loss of propulsion or steering or
both.

3 Classification
In accordance with 1-1-3/3, the classification of À A1 Escort Vessel is to be assigned to vessels
designed and built to the requirements of this section and other relevant sections of these Rules.
Dual purpose vessels [e.g., À A1 Á Escort Vessel (Fire Fighting Vessel Class 2)] are to be
designed and built to the appropriate requirements for those notations in the applicable sections of the
Rules, in addition to the requirements of this section.

5 Record Entries

5.1 Bollard Pull


The static bollard pull, as determined by 5-13-2/5, will be indicated in the Record.

5.3 Dynamic Pull


The dynamic pull, as determined by 5-13-2/7, will be indicated in the Record.

5.5 Quick Release


The letters QR will be entered in the Record to indicate a remote control quick release device is
provided in accordance with 5-13-6/3.

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PART

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CHAPTER 13 Escort Vessels

SECTION 2 Plans and Data

1 Hull and Machinery Plans


In general, in addition to the plans required to be submitted by Section 1-1-7 and 4-1-1/1 of these
Rules, the following additional plans are to be submitted in the same manner.
Structural details and arrangements of the structures in way of the towing hook, towing
winch, or towing bollard or bits, towing guide rollers and fairleads.
Details of connections (See 5-13-6/5.7)
Braking power of winch
Towing arrangement including towline path and minimum breaking strength of towline
components.

3 Stability Information
Each vessel is to be provided with stability information. The information may be pictorial, tabular,
simplified trim and stability booklet or other format that will provide a simple and rapid means to
evaluate the stability of the vessel and furnished to the master of each vessel for guidance.
When the stability information and calculations are reviewed and found satisfactory by the
Administration or its agent other than the Bureau, such acceptance will be accepted as equivalent to
that required by Section 5-13-4. On all other vessels, the stability information and calculations are to
be submitted to the Bureau for review as required.

5 Bollard Pull
The static bollard pulls is to be determined by an approved static bollard pull test performed in the
presence of the Surveyor. Static Bollard Pull Test Procedure is to be submitted to the Bureau for
review. See 5-13-9/1.

7 Dynamic Pull
A dynamic pull value is to be given for at least one vessel speed. The speed for which the dynamic
pull is given is not to be less than 6 knots and need not be greater than 12 knots. The dynamic pull
value is to be determined from full-scale ship-escort vessel trials, or by computer model simulation.
See 5-13-8/1 and 5-13-8/3, as appropriate.

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001 111
PART

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CHAPTER 13 Escort Vessels

SECTION 3 Definitions

1 Dynamic Pull
Dynamic pull, given at a particular speed, is the maximum sustainable force that the escort vessel is
able to develop while the assisted vessel is moving through the water at that particular speed. This
force, a measurement of the steering capability of the escort vessel, is the resultant of a pair of speed
dependent vector force functions; a maximum steering force, Fs, and an associated braking force, Fb.
This maximum force will be generated at some angle, θ, between the line of pull and the direction of
the vessel being assisted. See 5-13-1/Figure 1.
FIGURE 1
Dynamic Pull Forces

Assisted
Vessel

Fs

θ
Fb

Escort
Vessel

Fs = Steering Force
Fb = Braking Force

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001 113
Part 5 Specialized Vessels and Services
Chapter 13 Escort Vessels
Section 3 Definitions 5-13-3

3 Static Bollard Pull


The static bollard pull (BP) as determined in 5-13-2/5, for use in 5-13-3/5, is to be taken as not less
than the value obtained by the test and published in the Record.

5 Direct Towing Mode


Towline force is derived directly from the escort vessel’s propulsion system.

7 Indirect Towing Mode


Hydrodynamic lift and drag forces created by water flow against the escort vessel hull is utilized to
develop towline forces.

114 ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001
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CHAPTER 13 Escort Vessels

SECTION 4 Intact Stability

The intact stability of the vessel is to comply with a recognized standard. The submission of evidence
showing approval by an Administration will be acceptable. Alternatively, upon request, the review
will be performed by the Bureau. In addition to the requirements of Appendix 5-8-A1, the following
dynamic factors are to be accounted for:
i) The stability analysis is to consider all potential attitudes of the escort vessel relative to the
direction of line pull, the maximum line pull, and the resultant combination of heel and trim
on the escort vessel.
ii) The stability analysis is to include the effects of fenders, skegs, and other appendages on both
the reserve buoyancy and the lateral resistance of the escort vessel.
iii) The stability analysis is to include the contribution to heel and trim of the propulsion system
in conjunction with maximum line forces.
iv) The stability analysis is to include an evaluation of the reaction of the escort vessel to an
instantaneous release of the line forces, and the propulsive forces.
v) A heel angle limit is to be established. Forces acting on the escort vessel are not to submerge
the deck edge.
FIGURE 1
Dynamic Stability Components

Ft
"t

B
"h "p1 "p2
Fp2
Fh
Fp1

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001 115
Part 5 Specialized Vessels and Services
Chapter 13 Escort Vessels
Section 4 Intact Stability 5-13-4

Ft = Towline Pull Force, in metric tons (long tons)


Fp1, Fp2 = Propulsion Thrust Forces, in metric tons (long tons)
Fh = Hull and Appendage Force, in metric tons (long tons)

"t = Towline Pull Force Arm, in m (ft)

"p1, "p2 = Propulsion Thrust Forces Arms, in m (ft)

"h = Hull and Appendage Force Arm, in m (ft)


φ = Heel Angle, deg.
∆ = Vessel Displacement, in metric tons (long tons)
Mt = Ft"t cos φ

Mp1 = Fp1"p1 cos φ

Mp2 = Fp2"p2 cos φ

Mh = Fh"h cos φ
M t + M p1 + M p 2 + M h
Heeling Arm =

Heeling arm curve should be taken to vary with the cosine of the heeling angle.

116 ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001
PART

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CHAPTER 13 Escort Vessels

SECTION 5 Fire Fighting Capability

Escort vessels with fire fighting capabilities in accordance with Part 5, Chapter 9, will be given the
appropriate notations. See 5-13-1/3.

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PART

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CHAPTER 13 Escort Vessels

SECTION 6 Towing Gear

1 Arrangement
The towing hook, towing winch, towing bitt or towing bollard is to be located as low as practicable.
For towing vessels which normally tow over the stern and have the main towline connection to the
hull ahead of the propellers, the location of the towline connection is to be close to but abaft the center
of gravity of the towing vessel in the expected towing condition.
Rollers or fairleads are to be arranged so as to contain the towline within the design limits of its
sweep. The towing arrangement is to be such that the towline lead does not come into contact with the
vessel’s superstructure or deckhouse in any expected towing condition.
Effective means are to be provided to lead and restrain the towline over the stern of towing vessels
which normally tow over the stern.

3 Quick Release Device


A quick release device for the towing hook or towing winch is to be provided. The quick release
device is to be operable from the bridge or other normally manned location in direct communication
with the bridge. The quick release device is to disengage the towline at any combination of expected
trim and heel.

5 Strength

5.1 Towline
The breaking strength of the towline is not to be less than two times the static bollard pull load.

5.3 Towing Hook, Towing Winch, Towing Bollard and Towing Bitts
Towing hook, towing winch, towing bollard and towing bitt are to be capable of sustaining the
breaking strength of the towline without permanent deformation. These items are to comply with a
recognized standard or code of practice. Name plate indicating the names of standard, rated load,
speed, mass, etc., will be acceptable for that purpose. Other means for verifying compliance will also
be considered.
The installation of these items are to be to the satisfaction of the Surveyor.

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001 119
Part 5 Specialized Vessels and Services
Chapter 13 Escort Vessels
Section 6 Towing Gear 5-13-6

5.5 Supporting Structure


The stresses in the structures supporting the items in 5-13-6/5.3 are not to exceed the following
permissible stresses when subjected to a load equal to the towline breaking strength applied
horizontally within a range of 90° from center line on each side of the vessel.
Normal Stress 0.75 Y
Shear Stress 0.45 Y
where Y = specified minimum yield strength or yield point of the material.
In addition, the buckling strength is to be adequate for the above loading.

5.7 Connections
The size and arrangement of foundation securing bolts and welds for towing hook or towing winch
are to be in accordance with a recognized standard.

120 ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001
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CHAPTER 13 Escort Vessels

SECTION 7 Vessel Design

1 Hull Design
A bulwark is to be fitted around the lowest weather deck. See 3-2-14/1.1 and 3-2-14/1.3.

3 Side Shell and Frames


For vessels subject to impact loadings during routine operation, see 3-2-5/9 and 3-2-2/5.3.

5 After Deck
Deck fittings within the sweep of towline are to be protected against contact with the towline, and
against towline fouling.

7 Weather Deck Openings


Openings in the weather deck intended to be used at sea and leading to spaces below the freeboard or
superstructure deck, including emergency exits, are to be protected as required in 3-2-12/23.3 with sill
height of doors at least as required by 3-2-12/Table 1 for companionways.
Access openings, including emergency exits, are to be located clear of the towline sweep area.

9 Line Handling Equipment


Power line handling equipment is to be provided. The towline winch is to be of good and substantial
make, suitable for the size of the intended towline. The winch is to be adequately bolted down to a
substantial bed or foundation, and deck beams below the winch are to be suitably strengthened and
additionally supported. See 5-13-6/5 for strength requirements of towing components, supporting
structure and connections.

11 Fendering
Appropriate fendering is to be fitted around the entire vessel. See 5-10-3/1.3 and 5-10-3/1.5 where
steel fender is fitted.

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001 121
Part 5 Specialized Vessels and Services
Chapter 13 Escort Vessels
Section 7 Vessel Design 5-13-7

13 Equipment
Equipment is to be in accordance with Section 3-5-1, except that the equipment number (EN) may be
calculated using 3-5-1/3.5. The number, weight and size of equipment differing from 3-5-1/Table 1
may be specially considered for limited service. See also 1-1-3/11.

122 ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001
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CHAPTER 13 Escort Vessels

SECTION 8 Verification of Steering Capability

1 Full Scale Testing Requirements


The following data is to be collected at the full scale trials:
i) a continuous recording of the ship’s and escort vessel’s positions during the course of the
trial.
ii) a recording of the ship’s and escort vessel’s headings during the course of the trial.
iii) towline tension
iv) angle of towline
v) heel angle of escort vessel
Readings for ii) through v) are to be taken at a maximum interval of 10 seconds.
Environmental conditions are to be noted, including weather, sea state, wind, current, water depth.
The ship’s and escort vessel’s loading conditions are also to be noted.

3 Computer Model Simulation Requirements


The computer modeling program should be suitable to the type of ship and escort vessel being
modeled. It should also be suitable for the waterway bathymetry being modeled. The calculation for
the steering capability of the escort vessel should correspond to a quasi-steady state condition where
the horizontal-plane forces and moments are balanced. Non-linear effects can be considered
negligible.
The analysis is to include the hydrodynamic forces on the escort vessel’s hull and underwater
appendages, the forces acting on the rudder, and the propulsive thrust. Escort vessel stability and
attitude is to be considered in the analysis.

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001 123
PART

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CHAPTER 13 Escort Vessels

SECTION 9 Tests and Surveys

1 Static Bollard Pull Test


Static Bollard Pull Test Procedure is to be submitted for review by the Bureau technical staff in
advance of the test.
The static bollard pull is to be measured with the escort vessel at the maximum continuous rpm, and at
or near its maximum displacement. It is the pull that is recorded over the state of equilibrium without
any tendency to decline.
The depth of water, and the extent of water abaft and abreast the vessel are to be adequate to give a
reliable bollard pull.

3 Quick Release Test


The effectiveness of the quick release device is to be demonstrated during initial sea trial and at each
subsequent Special Periodical Survey. The test is to be conducted to manufacturer’s
recommendations.

5 Surveys
Unless otherwise specified (see 5-13-9/3), surveys after construction are to be in accordance with the
ABS Rule Requirements for Survey after Construction – Part 7. See also Sections 1-1-8 and 1-1-9.

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001 125
PART

5
CHAPTER 14 Fishing Vessels (2001)

CONTENTS
SECTION 1 General .................................................................. 129
1 Classification ........................................................ 129
3 Geographical Limitations...................................... 129
5 Governmental and Other Regulations ................. 129
7 International Conference on Safety of Fishing
Vessels, 1977....................................................... 130
9 Plans .................................................................... 130
11 Stability Requirements ......................................... 130
13 Strengthening for Navigation in Ice ...................... 131
15 Refrigerated Fish Carrier...................................... 131
SECTION 2 Vessel Design........................................................ 133
1 Fish Hold Bulkheads ............................................ 135
3 Side Shell – Local Strengthening ......................... 137
5 Deck plate ............................................................ 138
7 Protection of Deck Openings ............................... 138
9 Bulwarks, Rails, Ports, Portlights, and
Ventilators ............................................................ 138
11 Miscellaneous....................................................... 139
13 Freeboard, Draft Marks ........................................ 139
15 Cargo Handling Equipment .................................. 139
SECTION 3 Intact Stability ....................................................... 141
1 Intact Stability – General ...................................... 143
3 Intact Stability Criteria .......................................... 143
5 Severe Wind and Rolling Criteria ......................... 145
7 Standard Loading Conditions............................... 149
9 Design and Operating Factors Affecting
Stability................................................................. 150
SECTION 4 Equipment ............................................................. 159
1 Wire Rope ............................................................ 159
SECTION 5 Machinery Equipment and Systems .................... 161
1 Inclinations ........................................................... 161
3 Liquid Petroleum Gas........................................... 161
5 Electrical Installation ............................................ 161

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001 127
7 Refrigeration Plant................................................ 162
SECTION 6 Surveys ..................................................................163
1 Surveys After Construction................................... 163
3 Thickness Gauging............................................... 163

128 ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001
PART

5
CHAPTER 14 Fishing Vessels (2001)

SECTION 1 General

1 Classification
In accordance with 1-1-3/3, the classification À A1 Fishing Vessel will be given to vessels which
have been built to the satisfaction of the Surveyors to the Bureau in accordance with these
requirements and other relevant sections of the Rules and approved by the Committee for unrestricted
service. In addition, as applicable, an entry will be made in column 5 of the Record describing the
vessel as Side Trawl or Stern Trawl.
The requirements of this Section are applicable to self-propelled fishing vessels under 90 meters (295
ft) in length that are commercially engaged in the catching, taking or harvesting of fish or an activity
that is expected to result in the catching, taking or harvesting of the fish including fishing vessels
which also process their catch. This Section is not intended to apply to vessels used exclusively for
processing fish or other living resources of the sea, research or training, or fish carriers.

3 Geographical Limitations
Vessels which have been built to the satisfaction of the Surveyors to the Bureau to special modified
requirements for a limited or restricted service, where approved by the Committee for that particular
service will be classed and distinguished in the Record by the symbols and notation as described in
5-14-1/1 above. The symbols and notations will either be followed by or have included in them the
appropriate service limitations.

5 Governmental and Other Regulations


While these Rules cover the requirements for the classification of fishing vessels, the attention of
Owners, designers, and builders is directed to the regulations of governmental, canal, and other
authorities dealing with such matters as pollution control, emergency power supply, navigation aides,
bilge pumping arrangements, piping details, fire protection.

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001 129
Part 5 Specialized Vessels and Services
Chapter 14 Fishing Vessels
Section 1 General 5-14-1

7 International Conference on Safety of Fishing Vessels,


1977
Where authorized by the Administration of a country signatory to the International Conference on
Safety of Fishing Vessels, 1977/1993 Protocol, and upon request of the Owners of an existing vessel
or a vessel under construction, the Bureau will review plans and survey the vessel for compliance with
the provisions of this Convention/Protocol and certify thereto in the manner prescribed in the
Convention/Protocol.
Upon request of the Owner, the Bureau will review plans and survey an existing vessel or vessel
under construction for compliance with the provisions of the International Conference on Safety of
Fishing Vessels, 1977/1993 Protocol and will issue a special certificate certifying that the fishing
vessel complies with this Convention/Protocol.
Where the vessel has been found to be in compliance with the provisions of the International
Conference on Safety of Fishing Vessels, 1977/1993 Protocol, it will be distinguished in the Record
by the words Torremolinos Convention.

9 Plans
In addition to the plans required to be submitted by Section 1-1-7 and 4-1-1/7, the following plans are
to be submitted in the same manner;
Lines and offsets
Curves of Form (hydrostatic)
Cross Curves of Stability
Capacity Plan, giving centers of gravity and tank free surface corrections.

11 Stability Requirements

11.1 Stability Information


Each vessel is to be provided with stability information in a format acceptable to the Bureau. The
format may be pictorial, tabular, simplified trim and stability booklet or other format that will provide
a rapid means for the crew to evaluate the stability of the vessel.
Information is to be submitted on ballast, fuel, supplies and fish hold arrangement and capacities;
summary and distribution of fixed and variable weights, (including pots, traps, power-blocks, skiffs,
wet nets, etc.) for each reviewed condition; and information on all loaded and ballasted conditions in
which the vessel may be operated. (See also Section 5-14-3)
Where the stability review has been conducted and found satisfactory by the flag state administration,
the stability information and calculations as required by Section 5-14-3 need not be submitted.

11.3 Stability Standards


The stability information is to be based on the data submitted resulting from the intact stability
analysis. The intact stability analysis is to be based on the applicable part of the IMO A749(18) “Code
on Intact Stability for All Types Ships Covered by IMO Instrument”, as amended by MSC 75(69).

130 ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001
Part 5 Specialized Vessels and Services
Chapter 14 Fishing Vessels
Section 1 General 5-14-1

11.5 Inclining Experiment


The inclining experiment or deadweight survey, if applicable, is to be conducted on each fishing
vessel.
The responsibility for preparing the vessel for the test and conducting the test rests with the owner,
shipbuilder or naval architect. The Surveyor will verify all of the data and will assist only as necessary
to obtain valid test results. Where the inclining experiment is conducted by flag state administrations,
the Surveyor is to witness the inclining experiment. Also see 5-14-3/1.

13 Strengthening for Navigation in Ice


Where it is intended to strengthen the vessel for navigation in Ice, and the Owner desires a notation in
the Record, the vessel is to comply with the requirements in Part 6, Chapter 1 of the Rules for
Building and Classing Steel Vessels. It is the responsibility of the owner to determine which class is
most suitable for his intended service.

15 Refrigerated Fish Carrier


Where Fishing Vessels are provided with facilities for chilling, cooling, or freezing and/or storage in
the refrigerated cargo holds cooled by their own shipboard refrigeration machinery and the associated
system the vessel is to comply with the requirements in Part 6, Chapter 2 of the Rules for Building
and Classing Steel Vessels.

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001 131
5
CHAPTER 14 Fishing Vessels

SECTION 2 Vessel Design

CONTENTS
1 Fish Hold Bulkheads ........................................................... 135
1.1 General................................................................................. 135
1.3 Uprights ................................................................................ 135
1.5 Portable Fish Hold Division .................................................. 135
3 Side Shell – Local Strengthening ....................................... 137
3.1 General................................................................................. 137
3.3 Vessels with Side Trawls...................................................... 137
3.5 Vessels with Stern Trawls .................................................... 137
5 Deck plate ............................................................................ 138
5.1 Local Reinforcement ............................................................ 138
7 Protection of Deck Openings.............................................. 138
7.1 General................................................................................. 138
7.3 Hatchway Coamings, Companionway, Sills, and
Access Sills .......................................................................... 138
9 Bulwarks, Rails, Ports, Portlights, and Ventilators ........... 138
9.1 Details of Freeing Ports........................................................ 138
9.3 Poundboards ........................................................................ 139
11 Miscellaneous...................................................................... 139
11.1 Storm Rails ........................................................................... 139
11.3 Guard Rails, etc.................................................................... 139
11.5 Stern Doors .......................................................................... 139
13 Freeboard, Draft Marks ....................................................... 139
15 Cargo Handling Equipment ................................................ 139

TABLE 1 Coamings and Sill Heights...................................... 138

FIGURE 1 Horizontal Wood Boards - Steel Uprights .............. 137

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001 133
PART

5
CHAPTER 14 Fishing Vessels

SECTION 2 Vessel Design

1 Fish Hold Bulkheads

1.1 General
Where portable fish hold divisions are fitted, they are to be clearly indicated on the drawings
submitted for review. Every portable fish hold division is to extend from the bottom of the hold to the
deck.

1.3 Uprights
The section modulus of steel uprights (5-14-2/Figure 1) is not to be less than that obtained from the
following equation.
SM = 4.0psbh2 cm3 SM = 0.329 × 10-2 psbh2 in3
where
s = maximum transverse spacing between supports in m (ft)
b = maximum longitudinal spacing between supports in m (ft)
h = maximum unsupported span of the stanchion in m (ft)
p = density of cargo in metric tons/m3 (lbs/ft3)
Where the uprights are permanent and welded attachments are provided at both ends, reduced
scantlings can be considered on the end connections.
Where the upright is constructed of aluminum, wood or other material, the scantlings will be specially
considered.

1.5 Portable Fish Hold Division

1.5.1 Wooden Boards


The thickness of portable wooden boards (5-14-2/Figure 1) in centimeters (inches) is to be
obtained from the following equations:
1.5.1(a) Horizontal boards

t = 2.83 ( psb 2 ) cm t = 0.0235 ( psb 2 ) in.

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001 135
Part 5 Specialized Vessels and Services
Chapter 14 Fishing Vessels
Section 2 Vessel Design 5-14-2

1.5.1(b) Vertical boards

t = 1.90 ( ps" 2 ) cm t = 0.0157 ( ps" 2 ) in.


where
t = thickness of wooden divisions in cm (in.)
" = vertical span of wooden division in cm (in.)
p, s and b are as defined in 5-14-2/1.3.
The formulae are applicable to longitudinal divisions. Where the divisions are athwartships
the formulae should be modified by interchanging s and b. The thickness used may be
rounded off to the nearest 3 mm (1/8 in.) of the nearest standard thickness. The timber used is
to be of durable quality, of a type and grade that has proved satisfactory for fish-hold
divisions and the actual finished thickness of boards should be those derived from the
equations. The thickness of the boards made of good quality hardwood may be reduced by
12.5 percent.

1.5.2 Metallic Boards


The section modulus of portable metallic boards is not to be less than that obtained from the
following equation for horizontal or vertical members.
SM = 4kpasb2 cm3 SM = 0.329 × 10-4 kpasb2 in3
where
a = width of metallic board, in m (ft)
" = unsupported span of vertical boards, in m (ft)
k = 1.0 for steel
= 0.9 (Qo) for aluminum
Qo = 65/(Yal + Ual ) SI/MKS Units
= 92000/(Yal + Ual) U.S. Units
Ual = minimum ultimate strength of the welded aluminum alloy under
consideration, in kg/mm (psi)
Yal = minimum yield strength of the welded aluminum alloy under
consideration at 0.2% offset in a 254 mm (10 in.) gauge length, in
kg/mm2 (psi)
p, s and b are as defined in 5-14-2/1.3.
The formulae are applicable to longitudinal divisions. Where the divisions are athwartships
the formulae should be modified by interchanging s and b.

136 ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001
Part 5 Specialized Vessels and Services
Chapter 14 Fishing Vessels
Section 2 Vessel Design 5-14-2

FIGURE 1
Horizontal Wood Boards – Steel Uprights

s b

SM
h

s
b

b s

3 Side Shell – Local Strengthening

3.1 General
Wear plates or rollers are recommended at all places where fishing gear will subject the shell plating
to accelerated wear. Special strengthening may be required in areas where small boats are regularly
launched, retrieved, or stowed. Special strengthening may be required also in areas where the vessel
makes contact with another vessel when pursing, hauling, brailing, pumping, loading, unloading or
running together.

3.3 Vessels with Side Trawls


In way of trawl gallows the minimum thickness of the side shell plating is to be 30% greater than the
thickness of the side shell plating obtained from 3-2-2/5. In a vessel fitted with two or more gallows,
the minimum thickness of the side shell plating between the gallows is to be 20% greater than the
thickness of the side shell plating obtained from 3-2-2/5. Half round rub bars are to be installed at the
top of the bulwark the top of the sheerstrake and at the designed waterline. These bars are to extend
from not less than 150 mm (6 in) forward of the forward leg of each gallows to not less than 305 mm
(12 in) aft of the forward gallows leg. Additional half-round rub bars are to be installed vertically or
diagonally between the longitudinal rub bars in such a manner that shell plating welds are not subject
to abrasion by the gear being handled by the gallows.

3.5 Vessels with Stern Trawls


The minimum thickness of the stern trawl chute is to be 30% greater than the thickness on the side
shell plating obtained from 3-2-2/5. The minimum thickness of the chute sides is to be 10% greater
than the thickness of the side shell plating obtained from 3-2-2/5. Wear plates are recommended at
parts of the chute subject to accelerated wear.

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001 137
Part 5 Specialized Vessels and Services
Chapter 14 Fishing Vessels
Section 2 Vessel Design 5-14-2

5 Deck plate

5.1 Local Reinforcement


The deck plating where subject to abrasion such as from the fishing gear is to be reinforced locally.
The horizontal plating and the vertical plating are to be increased by approximately 30% and 10%
respectively above the thickness of the deck plating in 3-2-3/3 or suitable deck coverings are to be
provided. Positive means are to be provided to minimize the movement of the gear on deck due to the
vessel motions in a seaway.

7 Protection of Deck Openings

7.1 General
All openings in decks are to be framed to provide efficient support and attachment for the ends of the
deck beams. The proposed arrangements and details for all hatchways are to be submitted for
approval.

7.3 Hatchway Coamings, Companionway, Sills, and Access Sills


The height above deck of coamings of hatchways, sills of companionways and access openings, are to
be not less than given in 5-14-2/Table 1.
A companionway is a structure whose primary purpose is to protect an access in a deck. An access
door in a superstructure or house is considered a companionway only if the access in a deck is
adjacent to the door or if it is the sole access to the superstructure or house. A companionway
opening, with a space or passageway and an inner joiner door with 100 mm (4 in.) sill, may have a sill
height as required for access sills in 5-14-2/Table 1.
TABLE 1
Coamings and Sill Heights
On Weather Deck above
Deck Weather Deck

L equal to or over 24 meters (79 feet) in length


Hatch Coamings 600 mm (23.5 in.) 300 mm (12 in.)
Companionway sills 600 mm (23.5 in.) 300 mm (12 in.)
Access 380 mm (15 in.) 380 mm (15 in.)

L under 24 meters (79 feet) in length


Hatch Coamings 300 mm (12 in.) 300 mm (12 in.)
Companionway sills 450 mm (17.5 in.) 300 mm (12 in.)
Access Sills 300 mm (12 in.) 230 mm (9 in.)

9 Bulwarks, Rails, Ports, Portlights, and Ventilators

9.1 Details of Freeing Ports


Freeing ports are to be so arranged along the length of bulwarks as to ensure that the deck is freed of
water most rapidly and effectively. Lower edges of freeing ports shall be as near the deck as
practicable.

138 ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001
Part 5 Specialized Vessels and Services
Chapter 14 Fishing Vessels
Section 2 Vessel Design 5-14-2

9.3 Poundboards
Poundboards and means for stowage of fishing gear are to be arranged so that the effectiveness of
freeing ports will not be impaired. Poundboards are to be constructed that they can be locked in
position when in use and shall not hamper the discharge of shipped water.
Freeing ports over 300 mm (11.8 in.) in depth are to be fitted with bars spaced not more than 230 mm
(9 in.) nor less than 150 mm (6 in.) apart or provided with other suitable protective arrangements.
Freeing port covers, if fitted, are to be submitted for review. If devices are considered necessary for
locking freeing port covers during fishing operations they are to be easily operable from a readily
accessible position.
In vessels intended to operate in areas subject to icing, covers and protective arrangements for freeing
ports are to be capable of being easily removed to restrict ice accretion. The size of openings and
means provided for removal of these protective arrangements are to be submitted for review.

11 Miscellaneous

11.1 Storm Rails


Storm Rails are to be fitted on the outside of deck houses.

11.3 Guard Rails, etc.


Guard rails, gangways, lifelines or underdeck passages are to be provided for the crew to get between
quarters, machinery spaces and other working areas.

11.5 Stern Doors


Stern trawlers are to have doors, gates or other protective arrangements at the top of the stern ramp as
high as the adjacent bulwark. A chain or other device should be provided to fit across the ramp when
the doors are open.

13 Freeboard, Draft Marks


i) The maximum permissible draft at amidships and its corresponding minimum freeboard are to
be indicated on both sides of the vessel, amidships.
ii) The minimum freeboard corresponds to the maximum permissible draft at amidships which
the strength and stability of the vessel are approved.

15 Cargo Handling Equipment


For the Certification of cargo handling equipment, see Section 6-2-4 of the Rules for Building and
Classing Steel Vessels.

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001 139
5
CHAPTER 14 Fishing Vessels

SECTION 3 Intact Stability

CONTENTS
1 Intact Stability – General..................................................... 143
3 Intact Stability Criteria ........................................................ 143
3.1 General................................................................................. 143
3.3 Alternate Criteria................................................................... 145
5 Severe Wind and Rolling Criteria ....................................... 145
5.1 General................................................................................. 145
7 Standard Loading Conditions............................................. 149
7.1 Loading Conditions............................................................... 149
7.3 Load Considerations ............................................................ 150
9 Design and Operating Factors Affecting Stability............. 150
9.1 Lightship and the Inclining Experiment ................................ 150
9.3 Calculation of Righting Arms ................................................ 151
9.5 Effect of Trim ........................................................................ 151
9.7 Free Surface Effects............................................................. 152
9.9 Treatment of Lifting Weights and Heeling Moments Due
to Fishing Gear ..................................................................... 152
9.11 Ballast................................................................................... 154
9.13 Watertight Integrity and Flooding ......................................... 155
9.15 Icing ...................................................................................... 156
9.17 Water on Deck...................................................................... 156

TABLE 1 Values of factor X1 ................................................... 148


TABLE 2 Values of factor X2 ................................................... 148
TABLE 3 Values of factor k ..................................................... 149
TABLE 4 Values of factor s ..................................................... 149

FIGURE 1 Intact Stability Criteria for Fishing Vessels............ 144


FIGURE 2 Severe Wind and Rolling Criteria............................ 148
FIGURE 3 Lifting Criteria .......................................................... 153
FIGURE 4 Calculating the Effect of a Fastened Trawl ............ 154

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001 141
FIGURE 5 Diagram of Key Watertight Closures ......................155
FIGURE 6 Method of Treatment of Water on Deck ..................158
FIGURE 7 Volume of Water to be Included in Calculating
Effect of Water on Deck ...........................................158

142 ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001
PART

5
CHAPTER 14 Fishing Vessels

SECTION 3 Intact Stability

1 Intact Stability – General


The intact stability of each fishing vessel is to be evaluated and the results for all loading conditions
indicated in 5-14-3/7 for compliance with the intact stability criteria in 5-14-3/3 and 5-14-3/5 and
taking into account the design considerations indicated in 5-14-3/9 are to be submitted.
The loading conditions where the longitudinal intact stability maybe critical, (such conditions) are to
be investigated.
Where it is desired to use an intact stability criteria which differs from the following, special
consideration may be given upon submission of the details and service experience.

3 Intact Stability Criteria

3.1 General
The intact stability of the fishing vessel is to meet the criteria in IMO Resolution A.168 (ES.IV) with
an additional requirement that the fishing vessel has a minimum range of stability of 60 degrees. This
minimum criteria is summarized as follows and in 5-14-3/Figure 1.

3.1.1
The area under the righting arm curve is not to be less than 0.055 meter-radians (10.3
ft-degrees) up to an angle of heel of 30 degrees.

3.1.2
The area under the righting arm curve between the angles of heel of 30 degrees and 40
degrees or between 30 degrees and the angle of downflooding (θf), if downflooding occurs at
less than 40 degrees, is not to be less than 0.030 meter-radians (5.6 ft-degrees)

3.1.3
The area under the righting arm curve is not to be less than 0.090 meter-radians (16.9
ft-degrees) up to an angle of heel of 40 degrees or the angle of downflooding (θf), if this angle
is less than 40 degrees.
Note: This criterion requires that the sum of the area under the righting arm curve to 30 degrees and the
righting arm curve between 30 degrees and 40 degrees or 30 degrees and the angle of downflooding be
greater than 0.090 meter-radians (16.9 ft-degrees). This means that either or both of these areas is to be
greater than that specified in 5-14-3/3.1.1 and 5-14-3/3.1.2.

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001 143
Part 5 Specialized Vessels and Services
Chapter 14 Fishing Vessels
Section 3 Intact Stability 5-14-3

3.1.4
The righting arm is to be at least 0.2 m (0.66 ft) at an angle greater than or equal to 30
degrees.

3.1.5
The maximum righting arm is to occur at an angle of heel preferably exceeding 30 degrees
but not less than 25 degrees.

3.1.6
Initial GM is not to be less than 0.35 m (1.15 ft)

3.1.7
As an additional part of this criterion, a minimum range of stability of 60 degrees is to be
provided.

3.1.8
For fishing vessels less than 24 m (79 ft), the criteria indicated above will be specially
considered.
FIGURE 1
Intact Stability Criteria for Fishing Vessels

Angle of Max Righting


Area to 40 degrees Arm ≥ 25 deg
≥ 0.090 m-rad
(16.9 ft-deg) Initial GM ≥ 0.35 m (1.15 ft)

Angle of Downflooding ( θ f)
Righting Arm

Area 30
to 40 Minimum R.A. at 30º or
degrees greater 0.2 m (0.66 ft)
Area to ≥ 0.030
30 degrees m-rad
≥ 0.055 m-rad (5.6 ft-deg)
(10.3 ft-deg)

0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90
Heel Angle (degrees)

Range of Stability

144 ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001
Part 5 Specialized Vessels and Services
Chapter 14 Fishing Vessels
Section 3 Intact Stability 5-14-3

3.3 Alternate Criteria


Where the vessel’s characteristics are such that the above criteria in 5-14-3/3.1 cannot be met, the
following criteria may be used:

3.3.1
The area under the righting arm curve is not to be less than 0.070 meter-radians (13.1 ft-
degrees) up to an angle of 15 degrees when the maximum righting arm occurs at 15 degrees,
and 0.055 meter-radians (10.3 ft-degrees)up to an angle of 30 degrees when the maximum
righting arm occurs at 30 degrees or above. Where the maximum righting arm occurs at
angles of between 15 degrees and 30 degrees, the corresponding area under the righting arm
curve is to be:
0.055 + 0.001 (30 − θmax) meter-radians **
10.3 + 0.187 (30 − θmax) ft-degrees
** θmax is the angle of heel in degrees at which the righting arm curve reaches its maximum.

3.3.2
The area under the righting arm curve between the angles of heel and 30 degrees and 40
degrees, or between 30 degrees and θf, if this angle is less than 40 degrees, is to be not less
than 0.03 meter-radians (5.6 ft-degrees).

3.3.3
The righting arm is to be at least 0.20 m (0.66 ft) at an angle of heel equal to or greater than
30 degrees.

3.3.4
The maximum righting arm is to occur at an angle of heel not less than 15 degrees.

3.3.5
The initial GM is to be not less than 0.35m (1.15 ft).

3.3.6
For fishing vessels less than 24 m (79 ft), the criteria indicated above will be specially
considered.

5 Severe Wind and Rolling Criteria

5.1 General
The severe wind and rolling criteria indicated in IMO Resolution A.562 (14) is a measure to
determine the ability of a fishing vessel to withstand the effect of beam winds and rolling. The fishing
vessel is to meet the criteria contained in A.562 (14) as summarized below and in 5-14-3/Figure 2.

5.1.1
The vessel is assumed to be subjected to a steady wind pressure acting perpendicular to the
vessel’s centerline which results in a steady wind heeling arm (Lw1).The vessel heel to an
angle of equilibrium (θ0) is not to exceed 16 degrees.

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001 145
Part 5 Specialized Vessels and Services
Chapter 14 Fishing Vessels
Section 3 Intact Stability 5-14-3

5.1.2
From the resultant angle of equilibrium (θ0), the ship is assumed to roll due to wave action to
an angle of roll (θ1) to windward.

5.1.3
The ship is then subjected to a gust wind pressure which results in a gust wind heeling arm
(Lw2).

5.1.4
Under these circumstances , area “b” is to be equal to or greater than area “a”.

5.1.5
Free surface effects are to be accounted for in the standard conditions of loading, as discussed
in 5-14-3/7.

5.1.6
The angles in 5-14-3/Figure 2 are defined as follows:
θ0 = angle of heel under action of steady wind (i.e. the intersection of the wind
heeling arm curve, Lw1, and the righting arm curve),

θ1 = angle of roll to windward due to wave action,


θ2 = angle of downflooding (θf) or 50 degrees or θc2, whichever is less
θ3 = angle of heel at which openings in the hull, superstructures or deckhouses
which cannot be closed weathertight immerse. In applying this criterion,
small openings through which progressive flooding cannot take place
need not be considered as open.
θc1 = angle of first intercept of wind heeling arm curve, Lw2,and righting arm
curve
θc2 = angle of second intercept of wind heeling arm curve, Lw2, and righting
arm curve

5.1.7
The wind heeling arm Lw1 and Lw2, referred to above, are constant values at all angles of
inclination and is to be calculated as shown below:
PAZ
Lw1 = m (ft)

Lw2 = 1.5 Lw1
where
P = 0.0514 t/m2 (0.00486 t/ft2)
A = projected lateral area of the portion of the ship and deck cargo above the
waterline, m2 (ft2)
Z = vertical distance from the center of A to the center of the underwater
lateral area or approximately to a point at one half the draft, m (ft)
∆ = Displacement metric tons (long tons)

146 ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001
Part 5 Specialized Vessels and Services
Chapter 14 Fishing Vessels
Section 3 Intact Stability 5-14-3

5.1.8
The angle of roll (θl) is to be calculated as follows:

θl = 109k X1 X2 rs degrees
where
X1 = factor as shown in 5-14-3/Table 1
X2 = factor as shown in 5-14-3/Table 2
k = factor as follows:
= 1.0 for round bilge ship having no bilge or bar keels;
= 0.7 for a ship having sharp bilges;
= as shown in 5-14-3/Table 3 for a ship having bilge keels, a bar keel or
both.
r = 0.73 + 0.6 OG/d
with
OG = distance between the center of gravity and waterline, m (ft)
(+ above gravity, − below)
d = mean design draft of the ship, m (ft)
s = factor as shown in 5-14-3/Table 4.
2.0CB
Rolling Period T = sec. (SI/MKS units)
GM
1.108CB
T= sec. (U.S. units)
GM
where
C = 0.373 + 0.023 (B/d) − 0.043(L/100) (SI/MKS units)
= 0.373 + 0.023 (B/d) − 0.000131L (U.S. units)
The symbols in 5-14-3/Table 1 to 5-14-3/Table 4 and formula for the rolling period are
defined as follows:
L = waterline length of the ship, m (ft.)
B = molded breath amidships of the ship, m (ft.)
d = mean design draft of the ship, m (ft.)
Cb = block coefficient
Ak = total overall area of bilge keels, or area of the lateral projection of the bar
keel , or sum of these areas, m2 (ft2)
GM = metacentric height corrected for free surface effect, m (ft.)
The angle of roll for ships provided with active anti-rolling devices is to be determined
without taking into account the operation of these devises. For vessels with anti-roll tanks, the
full free surface effect of the tanks is to be used to determine the GM value used in calculating
the angle of roll.

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FIGURE 2
Severe Wind and Rolling Criteria

2.5

2.0
Area "b" ≥ Area"a"
Righting Arm

1.5

1.0
θ c1
Area "b"
0.5

Area "a" Lw1 Lw2

θ0 θ2 θf θ c2

0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90

Heel Angle - Degrees

θ1

TABLE 1 TABLE 2
Values of factor X1 Values of factor X2

B/d X1 Cb X2
≤ 2.4 1.00 ≤ 0.45 0.75
2.5 0.98 0.050 0.82
2.6 0.96 0.055 0.89
2.7 0.95 0.060 0.95
2.8 0.93 0.065 0.97
2.9 0.91 ≥ 0.70 1.00
3.0 0.90
3.1 0.88
3.2 0.86
3.3 0.84
3.4 0.82
≥ 3.5 0.80

148 ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001
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TABLE 3 TABLE 4
Values of factor k Values of factor s
Ak100
k T s
LB
0.0 1.00 ≤6 0.100
1.0 0.98 7 0.098
1.5 0.95 8 0.093
2.0 0.88 12 0.065
2.5 0.79 14 0.053
3.0 0.74 16 0.044
3.5 0.72 18 0.038

(Intermediate values in 5-14-3/Table 1 through 5-14-3/Table 4 should be obtained by linear


interpolation.)

7 Standard Loading Conditions

7.1 Loading Conditions


The following assumed loading conditions, as a minimum, are to be investigated on each fishing
vessel:

7.1.1
Departure condition from port with full fuel, water, stores, ice, fishing gear etc..

7.1.2
Arrival at the fishing grounds with reduced fuel, water and stores and no catch (the amount of
fuel, water and stores based on the distance to the fishing area).

7.1.3
At the fishing grounds with reduced fuel, water and stores and 50% catch;

7.1.4
Departure from the fishing grounds with reduced fuel, water, and stores and full catch;

7.1.5
Arrival at home port with 10 percent fuel, water and stores, and full catch including any
weights to be lifted or suspended and their effects on stability.

7.1.6
Arrival at home port with 10 percent fuel, water, and stores and 20 percent of full catch;

7.1.7
Other loading conditions in which the vessel may be operated, such as other partial catch and
tank loading combinations, with deck loads, using boxes to store fish, while lifting, in ballast
and during periods of icing.

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7.3 Load Considerations


The following considerations are to be included in assessing loading conditions.

7.3.1
In addition to the loading conditions noted above, loading conditions are to be calculated for
any other unusual loads or operating practices not considered by the criteria which may have
an effect on the vessel being designed.

7.3.2
Operating conditions which may seriously impair the stability of the vessel should be brought
to the attention of the operator and recommended practical corrective measures are to be
included in the stability information furnished to the operator.

7.3.3
When calculating operating conditions, the weight of all fishing gear on deck in that
condition, i.e., wet nets, tackle, pots, traps, etc., is to be included

7.3.4
The cargo may be assumed to be homogeneous unless this is inconsistent with practice.

7.3.5
Deck cargo is to be included

7.3.6
Free water in ballast tanks or fish wells is to be included if it is present in normal operations.

7.3.7
If normal practice is to stow fish so that one end of the hold is loaded higher, then the increase
in VCG is to be accounted for.

9 Design and Operating Factors Affecting Stability


The following design considerations, environmental forces and operating conditions which affect the
stability of each fishing vessel are to be considered when developing the stability calculations and
appropriate instructions are to be included in the stability information furnished to the master.

9.1 Lightship and the Inclining Experiment

9.1.1
The first vessel in a class of vessels is to be inclined. Because minor changes to vessels may
significantly affect their stability, a deadweight survey is to be conducted on each sister vessel
to confirm the lightship characteristics. After accounting for known weight changes, if the
deadweight survey shows the displacement differs by more than 1 percent from that of the
lead vessel or if the longitudinal center of gravity (LCG) differs by more than 0.5 percent of
the length between perpendiculars, the vessel is to be inclined.

9.1.2
Because a fishing vessel may not be built strictly in accordance with the lines plan ,and to
insure an accurate stability analysis , a verification is to be made to confirm that the vessel
was actually built to the lines plan by checking the dimensions of the vessel at several
locations at or before the time of the inclining.

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9.1.3
ABS Guidelines “Inclining Experiment and Lightweight Survey”, provides information on
how to conduct stability tests. These guidelines are to be followed to obtain accurate test data
results. It is important that when an inclining experiment is conducted on a hard chine vessel,
the chine must be immersed at all times because of the rapid change in waterplane area and
thus the height of metacenter, KM, if the chine emerges when the vessel is heeled.

9.3 Calculation of Righting Arms

9.3.1
The hull designs of fishing vessels, with house forward and working areas aft, generally cause
the vessel to change draft and trim significantly as it is heeled. Righting arms are to be
determined assuming the initial trim and using constant trimming moments (free trim).

9.3.2
In calculating righting arms for loading conditions , the sensitivity of the righting arms to trim
is to be determined. If the righting arms are affected by trim, then they are to be calculated for
the actual trim for each loading condition, instead of using the zero trim righting arms for all
loading conditions.

9.3.3
Superstructures and deck houses are to be included in the buoyant volume if all openings in
the sides and ends are weathertight, and all portlights and windows have deadlight covers.

9.3.4
Stern ramps are to be deducted from the buoyant volume.

9.3.5
Bulwarks are not to be included in the buoyant volume.

9.3.6
In general, volumes which are watertight and of sufficient strength can be considered fully
effective. All fully effective volumes may be included in the buoyant volume for the righting
arm calculations, although the exclusion of these volumes permits a more accurate assessment
of the vessel’s stability characteristics.

9.5 Effect of Trim

9.5.1
Consideration is to be given to the effect of trim that large buoyant volumes at one end of the
vessel can cause. A large number of vessels with deckhouses forward trim substantially when
heeled due to the higher distribution of reserve buoyancy at the bow.

9.5.2
Where the trim in the loading conditions is different from that for which the righting arms
were calculated, additional righting arms are to be calculated for these loading conditions.

9.5.3
In addition ,as a vessel trims consideration is to be given to the position of the point of
downflooding relative to the waterline, thus allowing downflooding to occur sooner than
expected.

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Part 5 Specialized Vessels and Services
Chapter 14 Fishing Vessels
Section 3 Intact Stability 5-14-3

9.7 Free Surface Effects


The surface effect is a major consideration for many fishing vessels. Because of this, the following is
recommended to account for the free surface effect:

9.7.1
For all conditions, the initial metacentric height and righting arm curves are to be corrected
for the effect of free surfaces of liquids in tanks by calculating the following:
9.7.1(a) For each type of consumable liquid, the free surface effect of at least one transverse
pair of wing tanks or a single centerline tank having the greatest free surface effect.
9.7.1(b) The free surface effect of each partially filled tank containing other than consumable
liquids.
9.7.1(c) The free surface effect of passive roll stabilization tanks.

9.7.2
Either the standard free surface calculation, based on the moment of inertia of the tank, or the
moment of transference method may be used.

9.7.3
Because of the large free surface moment, vessels with large fish wells are to maintain these
wells in either empty or fully pressed up condition. A check of the transition period at sea is
to be completed if ballasting at sea is the practice of the operator.

9.7.4
The free surface correction for pairs of tanks fitted with cross connection piping but without
valves such as passive roll stabilization tanks are to be calculated assuming the tanks are one
common tank.

9.9 Treatment of Lifting Weights and Heeling Moments Due to Fishing Gear

9.9.1
When a weight is lifted from the deck, the weight then acts at the tip of the boom and is to be
considered in developing the VCG and the righting arm curves.
The stability information shall contain the details of the lifting gear including the maximum
heeling moments and other information for the crew to minimize the possibility of exceeding
the design condition.

9.9.2
The moment caused by the lifting of a fishing net filled with catch is to be considered in
developing the VCG and righting arm curves.

9.9.3 Heeling Moments Due to Fishing Gear


9.9.3(a) The normal heeling moments imposed by trawling or seining, for instance, are to be
evaluated by the designer and included in the stability analysis.
9.9.3(b) The heeling moments which would be experienced by a trawler in normal operations
as well as when the vessel is attempting to clear a trawl which was snagged or fastened to the
bottom is to be investigated. The residual righting area between the heeling arm curve and the
righting arm curve is to be at least 0.080 meter-radians (15 foot-degrees) to the least of the
following angles;

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i) angle of maximum righting arm;


ii) angle of downflooding; and
iii) 40 degrees.
9.9.3(c) In addition, the static angle of heel is not to exceed 10 degrees.
9.9.3(d) This is illustrated in 5-14-3/Figure 3. The heeling moment is the maximum
generated based on the allowed combinations of hook load and radius. The heeling arm curve
is defined by:
cos θ
A = maximum heeling moment × In calculating the righting arm curve,

the increase in VCG due to the lifting of the weight shall be considered.
9.9.3(e) The effect of a trawl snagging on the bottom is to be considered. When the trawl
becomes snagged the potential healing moment can exceed the righting moment.
5-14-3/Figure 4 shows a family of heeling moment curves for a given propeller thrust and
vessel trawl geometry imposed on a righting arm curve .The illustration is not intended to be
numerically specific, but is instead presented to show how operational practices must be
considered in developing stability information. The heeling moment increases for decreasing
trawl angles a, where a is the angle which the trawl angle, which is in turn a function of the
wire length and the water depth. Since normal practice is to shorten up the trawl wire and use
power to break the trawl free, the angle at which the wire trails can be significantly reduced as
the vessel moves towards the location of the snag. If the stability is critical consideration
should be given to the need for quick-release devices on winches and other lifting equipment.
The stability information should warn the operators that attempting to release a fastened trawl
by rapidly increasing the engine thrust or suddenly increasing the power on the winch may
cause the vessel to capsize.
FIGURE 3
Lifting Criteria
Angle of Equilibrium
< 10 deg
Angle of Max. R.A.

Angle of Downflood
Righting Arm

Area
≥ 0.080 m-rad Max. Heeling Moment * cos θ/∆
(15.0 ft-deg)

0 10 20 30 40 50 60

Heel Angle - Degrees

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001 153
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Section 3 Intact Stability 5-14-3

FIGURE 4
Calculating the Effect of a Fastened Trawl

Side Trawler with Snagged Trawl

a
b
Length of wire - 2.5 to 30 times " b"

Family of Curves Showing Heeling Moment


for Different Trawl Angles
Righting Moment

a = 20º

a = 30º

a = 40º
a = 50º
a = 66.4º

0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80
Heel Angle - Degrees

9.11 Ballast

9.11.1
Ballast is normally used to improve the stability of the vessel. However, depending on the
location of the ballast, it can either raise or lower the center of gravity of a vessel. Ballast may
also decrease the reserve buoyancy of a given vessel and can adversely change the trim of the
vessel.

9.11.2
If it is the intend to ballast during ballast operations the free surface effect will exist during
the interim period until the ballast tank is pressed up is to be considered in developing the
stability data.

9.11.3
If permanent ballast is installed, it is not to be removed without notifying the Bureau and
evaluating the effect on stability.

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Section 3 Intact Stability 5-14-3

9.13 Watertight Integrity and Flooding

9.13.1
The importance of providing watertight closures that can be quickly closed and easily
maintained is to be considered in developing a hull which can meet or exceed the stability
criteria and provide an efficient fishing platform.

9.13.2
All closures which must be opened at sea are to be kept as far inboard and as high as possible
in order to maximize the angle at which downflooding occurs. Doors in forecastle, poop, and
deckhouse end bulkheads are often located near the side of the vessel and could be immersed
at low angle of heel. Wherever possible these closures are to be kept close to the centerline,
then the angle of downflooding is considerably increased with a resultant increase in safety.

9.13.3
Instructions to the master are to be provided to keep all watertight closures closed except
when actually being used. These closures should be clearly labeled “KEEP CLOSED”. A
diagram showing the location to all watertight closures is to be placed aboard the vessel in the
Stability Information provided to the operator. An example of this is shown in 5-14-3/Figure
5.

FIGURE 5
Diagram of Key Watertight Closures

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9.15 Icing
The following guidance, which is derived from IMO, is offered for consideration:

9.15.1
The vessel’s stability is to be investigated in the worst conditions of loading given in
5-14-3/7.

9.15.2
If the vessel operates in areas where ice accretion is likely to occur , the following minimum
weights of ice are to be assumed:
i) The weight of ice on all horizontal surfaces is to be at least 30 kg/m2 (6.14 lbs/ft2).
ii) The weight of ice of the projected vertical area above the waterline is to be at least 15
kg/m2 (3.07 lbs/ft2).
iii) Plans showing projected horizontal and vertical areas are to be submitted.

9.15.3
The weight of ice for other geographical areas should be assumed to vary from one half to
twice of these values or that recommended by the administration where the vessel is intended
to operate, such as the Transport Canada - Marine Safety requirements for vessels operating
in their waters.

9.15.4
The height of the center of gravity of the accumulated ice is to be located according to the
position of the corresponding horizontal surfaces (decks and gangways) and other continuous
surfaces on which ice can reasonably expected to accumulate. The projected lateral area of
small discontinuous surfaces such as rails, spars, and rigging with no sails can be accounted
for by increasing the calculated area by 5 percent and the static moments of the area by 10
percent.

9.17 Water on Deck


The IMO Guidance as a means of evaluating the residual stability of the vessel with water on deck is
repeated below.

9.17.1
The ability of the vessel to withstand the heeling effect due to the presence of water on deck is
to be demonstrated by showing that with the vessel in the worst operating condition, the ratio
of area “b” to area “a” shown in 5-14-3/Figure 6 is not to be less than 1.0. That is, it satisfies
the following equation in the worst operating condition:
area " b"
Cwod = ≥ 1.0
area " a"

9.17.2
The angle which limits area “b” is to be equal to the downflooding angle θf or 40 degrees,
whichever is less.

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9.17.3
The value of the heeling moment Mwod (or the corresponding heeling arm) due to the presence
of water on deck is to be determined assuming that the deck well is filled to the top of the
bulwark at its lowest point and the vessel heeled up to the angle at which this point is
immersed (see 5-14-3/Figure 7)

9.17.4
When calculating Mw the following assumptions are to be made:
i) At the beginning the vessel is in upright position;
ii) During heeling, trim and displacement are constant and equal to the values for the
vessel without water on deck;
iii) The effect of freeing ports should be ignored.

9.17.5
The above provisions may be adjusted, taking into account the seasonal weather conditions
and sea states in the areas in which the vessels will operate, the type of vessel and its mode of
operation.

9.17.6
Other methods for the calculation of the effect of water on deck using the dynamic approach
may be adopted.

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Section 3 Intact Stability 5-14-3

FIGURE 6
Method of Treatment of Water on Deck

2.5

2.0
Righting and Heeling Arm

Area "a"
1.5 Water on Deck
Heeling Energy

1.0

Area "b"
0.5 Residual
Righting
Energy

0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70

θ(B)

θ(limit)

FIGURE 7
Volume of Water to be Included in Calculating Effect of Water on Deck

Note: Deck is filled to top of gunwale


and gunwale is immersed.

Waterline

Deck Line

158 ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001
PART

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CHAPTER 14 Fishing Vessels

SECTION 4 Equipment

1 Wire Rope
Both anchor chains may be replaced with wire rope, having strength not less than required tabular
Grade 1 chain, on vessels less than 30 m (98.4 ft) in length. Wire rope having strength not less than
the required tabular Grade 1 chain, may be used in lieu of the chain cable of on anchor on vessels
between 30 m (98.4 ft) and 40 m (131.2 ft) in length, provided normal chain cable is provided for the
second anchor. In general, wire ropes of trawl winches may be used to comply with anchor cable
requirement in this paragraph. Where wire ropes are substituted for anchor chain, the length of wire
rope is to be 1.5 times that of chain it is replacing. A short length cable of the required size is to be
fitted between the wire rope and the anchor having a length of 12.5 m (41 ft) or the distance between
anchor in stowed position and winch, whichever is less.

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PART

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CHAPTER 14 Fishing Vessels

SECTION 5 Machinery Equipment and


Systems

1 Inclinations
Main propulsion and all auxiliary machinery essential to the operation of the vessel is to be capable of
operating with the vessel upright or inclined transversely to 15 degrees either way under static
conditions and up to 22.5 degrees under dynamic conditions or inclined longitudinally up to 7.5
degrees statically or dynamically or combination of these conditions. The Administration may permit
deviation from these angles, taking into consideration the type, size and service conditions of the
vessel.
For Emergency Equipment and Switchgear refer to 4-1-1/17.

3 Liquid Petroleum Gas


Where liquid petroleum gas are used in the galley, the installation is to comply with a recognized
standard, such as 46CFR-Subpart 58.16. Liquefied or non-liquefied combustible gas containers used
for heating or cooking are considered ship's stores and are not covered in these Rules.

5 Electrical Installation

5.1 General
On vessels whose length is less than 30 m (100 ft) and the main engines are self-sustaining and no
mechanical refrigeration is required for the catch, only one generator will be required.

5.3 Emergency Lighting


In addition to the 4-6-2/5.3, emergency lighting is to be provided in fish handling and fish processing
spaces.

5.5 Cables – Construction


Cables are to be constructed and sized in accordance with a recognized standard. They are to be
suitable for marine application, flame retardant and have copper conductors of stranded type, except
sizes need exceeding 1.5 mm2 (16 AWG) may have solid conductors. Refer also to 4-6-4/13.1.

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Section 5 Machinery Equipment and Systems 5-14-5

7 Refrigeration Plant
The refrigeration plant is to be in accordance with Part 6, Chapter 2 of the Rules for Building and
Classing Steel Vessels. For spaces containing toxic refrigerants, see Section 6-2-11 of the above Steel
Vessel Rules. However, where separated spaces for toxic refrigerants are not practicable, the
refrigerating machinery may be installed in the machinery spaces provided that in addition to the leak
detection and water spry systems special consideration is given to the ventilation arrangements,
appropriate gas detectors are fitted, protection of the refrigeration machinery from damage and
provided that the propulsion machinery and essential auxiliaries can be operated from the navigation
bridge.

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CHAPTER 14 Fishing Vessels

SECTION 6 Surveys

1 Surveys After Construction


The surveys after construction, including gaugings, are to be carried out in accordance with the latest
edition of the publication ABS Rule Requirements for Surveys After Construction – Part 7.

3 Thickness Gauging
Thickness gauging is to be carried out in accordance with 7-3-2/5.1.14(a) of the above referenced
Part 7.

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001 163
PART

5
APPENDIX 1 Requirements for Building and
Classing Vessels Intended for
Service in Domestic Waters

Note:
This Appendix is prepared to make provision for users of the Rules to design, build and operate vessels intended solely for
restricted service in domestic waters. It is recommended that any vessel which may possibly change its service area from
domestic to international at a future date should at least comply with the requirements listed in 5-A1/3.1, as applicable, so
that the upgrading work for compliance with SOLAS, etc. will avoid essential conversion of the vessel’s structural
arrangements.

1 General
For a vessel intended for service in domestic waters the Bureau will consider the Flag
Administration’s Ships Safety Regulations as an alternative in satisfying specific areas of the Rules.
Where approved by the Committee for a particular service, the vessel will be classed and
distinguished in the Record by the symbols À A1 followed by class notation, if applicable, and the
restricted service area (e.g. À A1 Gulf of Mexico etc.).

3 Requirements Replaced with National Regulations


The following requirements in the Rules may be replaced with the Regulations of the Flag
Administration for those vessels intended solely for service in domestic waters:

3.1 Basic Construction


Section/Paragraph Requirement
3-2-4/1 Double Bottom
Section 3-2-7, 5-10-2/3 Extra Bulkheads for Sub-Division
3-2-7/7 Water Tight Door on W.T. Bulkhead
Section 3-4-1 Structural Fire Protection
4-5-2/11 Fixed Fire Fighting System in Engine Room
4-6-2/5 Emergency Generator Room
5-10-3/5 Liquid Cargo Tank – Capacity Limit

ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001 165
Part 5 Specialized Vessels and Services
Appendix 1 Requirements for Building and Classing Vessels Intended for Service in
Domestic Waters 5-A1

3.3 Machinery and Equipment


Section/Paragraph Requirement
4-2-1/3.5, 4-2-1/9.7, 4-2-1/11.7 Spare Pumps
4-6-2/5 Emergency Power
4-6-2/5.9 Emergency Switchboard
4-5-2/5.3 Emergency (Second) Fire Pump
Part 4, Chapter 7 Shipboard Automation (1)

Note:
1 The applicable requirements in Part 4, Chapter 7 are to be fully complied with when the shipboard
automation notation ACCU or ABCU is requested.

166 ABS RULES FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING STEEL VESSELS UNDER 90 METERS (295 FEET) IN LENGTH 2001

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