DEP SPECIFICATION

PIPELAY SURVEY, POSITIONING AND AS-BUILT

REPORTINGS FOR OFFSHORE PIPELINES

DEP 31.40.11.32-Gen.

September 2011

ECCN EAR 99

DESIGN AND ENGINEERING PRACTICE

© 2011 Shell Group of companies

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, published or transmitted, in any form or by any means, without the prior
written permission of the copyright owner or Shell Global Solutions International BV.

This document contains information that is classified as EAR99 and, as a consequence, can neither be exported nor re-exported to any country which is under an
embargo of the U.S. government pursuant to Part 746 of the Export Administration Regulations (15 C.F.R. Parts 746) nor can be made available to any national of such
country. In addition, the information in this document cannot be exported nor re-exported to an end-user or for an end-use that is prohibited by Part 744 of the Export
Administration Regulations (15 C.F.R. Parts 744).
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PREFACE

DEP (Design and Engineering Practice) publications reflect the views, at the time of publication, of Shell Global
Solutions International B.V. (Shell GSI) and, in some cases, of other Shell Companies.
These views are based on the experience acquired during involvement with the design, construction, operation and
maintenance of processing units and facilities. Where deemed appropriate DEPs are based on, or reference
international, regional, national and industry standards.
The objective is to set the recommended standard for good design and engineering practice to be applied by Shell
companies in oil and gas production, oil refining, gas handling, gasification, chemical processing, or any other such
facility, and thereby to help achieve maximum technical and economic benefit from standardization.
The information set forth in these publications is provided to Shell companies for their consideration and decision to
implement. This is of particular importance where DEPs may not cover every requirement or diversity of condition at
each locality. The system of DEPs is expected to be sufficiently flexible to allow individual Operating Units to adapt the
information set forth in DEPs to their own environment and requirements.
When Contractors or Manufacturers/Suppliers use DEPs, they shall be solely responsible for such use, including the
quality of their work and the attainment of the required design and engineering standards. In particular, for those
requirements not specifically covered, the Principal will typically expect them to follow those design and engineering
practices that will achieve at least the same level of integrity as reflected in the DEPs. If in doubt, the Contractor or
Manufacturer/Supplier shall, without detracting from his own responsibility, consult the Principal.
The right to obtain and to use DEPs is restricted, and is granted by Shell GSI (and in some cases by other Shell
Companies) under a Service Agreement or a License Agreement. This right is granted primarily to Shell companies and
other companies receiving technical advice and services from Shell GSI or another Shell Company. Consequently, three
categories of users of DEPs can be distinguished:
1) Operating Units having a Service Agreement with Shell GSI or another Shell Company. The use of DEPs by
these Operating Units is subject in all respects to the terms and conditions of the relevant Service Agreement.
2) Other parties who are authorised to use DEPs subject to appropriate contractual arrangements (whether as part
of a Service Agreement or otherwise).
3) Contractors/subcontractors and Manufacturers/Suppliers under a contract with users referred to under 1) or 2)
which requires that tenders for projects, materials supplied or - generally - work performed on behalf of the said
users comply with the relevant standards.
Subject to any particular terms and conditions as may be set forth in specific agreements with users, Shell GSI
disclaims any liability of whatsoever nature for any damage (including injury or death) suffered by any company or
person whomsoever as a result of or in connection with the use, application or implementation of any DEP, combination
of DEPs or any part thereof, even if it is wholly or partly caused by negligence on the part of Shell GSI or other Shell
Company. The benefit of this disclaimer shall inure in all respects to Shell GSI and/or any Shell Company, or companies
affiliated to these companies, that may issue DEPs or advise or require the use of DEPs.
Without prejudice to any specific terms in respect of confidentiality under relevant contractual arrangements, DEPs shall
not, without the prior written consent of Shell GSI, be disclosed by users to any company or person whomsoever and
the DEPs shall be used exclusively for the purpose for which they have been provided to the user. They shall be
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Shell GSI. The copyright of DEPs vests in Shell Group of companies. Users shall arrange for DEPs to be held in safe
custody and Shell GSI may at any time require information satisfactory to them in order to ascertain how users
implement this requirement.
All administrative queries should be directed to the DEP Administrator in Shell GSI.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................5
1.1 SCOPE........................................................................................................................5
1.2 DISTRIBUTION, INTENDED USE AND REGULATORY CONSIDERATIONS .........5
1.3 DEFINITIONS .............................................................................................................5
1.4 CROSS-REFERENCES .............................................................................................7
1.5 SUMMARY OF MAIN CHANGES...............................................................................7
1.6 COMMENTS ON THIS DEP .......................................................................................7
2. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS ....................................................................................8
3 GEODETIC CONTROL ..............................................................................................9
3.1 HORIZONTAL DATUM AND PROJECTIONS............................................................9
3.2 VERTICAL DATUM.....................................................................................................9
3.3 TIME DATUM..............................................................................................................9
4 SURVEY EQUIPMENT.............................................................................................10
4.1 SURFACE POSITIONING – DGNSS .......................................................................10
4.2 TOUCHDOWN MONITORING .................................................................................10
4.3 SUBSEA ACOUSTIC POSITIONING – ULTRA SHORT BASELINE SYSTEM.......10
4.4 SUBSEA ACOUSTIC POSITIONING – LONG BASELINE SYSTEM ......................10
4.5 SUBSEA MEASUREMENTS – ATTITUDE / ORIENTATION / HEIGHT..................11
5 PERSONNEL............................................................................................................13
5.1 GENERAL .................................................................................................................13
5.2 SURVEY OPERATIONS MANAGER .......................................................................13
5.3 SURVEY PROJECT MANAGER ..............................................................................13
5.4 PARTY CHIEF/SENIOR SURVEYOR ......................................................................13
5.5 SURVEY ENGINEER ...............................................................................................13
5.6 ONLINE SURVEYOR ...............................................................................................14
6 PRE-LAY SURVEY ..................................................................................................15
7 AS-LAID SURVEY....................................................................................................16
8 EVENTING................................................................................................................18
8.1 FIELD JOINTS ..........................................................................................................18
8.2 PIPELINE CROSSINGS ...........................................................................................18
8.3 PIPELINE LATERAL BUCKLE TRIGGERS .............................................................19
8.4 ANODES ...................................................................................................................19
8.5 BUCKLE ARRESTORS ............................................................................................20
8.6 WEIGHT COAT.........................................................................................................20
8.7 GENERAL PIPELINE DAMAGE ...............................................................................21
8.8 FREE SPANS ...........................................................................................................21
8.9 PIPELINE BURIAL....................................................................................................21
8.10 DEBRIS.....................................................................................................................23
8.11 CATHODIC PROTECTION VALUES .......................................................................23
9 AS-TRENCHED AND AS-BUILT SURVEYS...........................................................24
9.1 AS-TRENCHED SURVEY ........................................................................................24
9.2 AS-BUILT SURVEYS................................................................................................24
10 DELIVERABLES ......................................................................................................25
10.1 CHARTING ...............................................................................................................25
10.2 REPORTING.............................................................................................................25
10.3 DIGITAL PIPELINE AS-BUILT POSITION DATA.....................................................26
11 REFERENCES .........................................................................................................27
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APPENDICES
APPENDIX A USBL ACOUSTIC POSITIONING ...................................................................28
APPENDIX B GYROCOMPASS ............................................................................................30
APPENDIX C DGNSS HEALTH CHECK ...............................................................................32
APPENDIX D MEASUREMENT ACCURACY & INSTALLATION TOLERANCE ..................34
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1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 SCOPE
This DEP specifies requirements and gives recommendations for surveys in support of
pipeline construction, including at what stages they are to be performed, for what purpose,
and by what means. It also includes the requirements for pre-lay surveys. Principal may
elect to use portions of this DEP for specific in-service pipeline surveys, see (8).
This DEP precludes the early stage activity requirements prior to pre-lay survey, such as
pre-planning, desktop studies, scouting, archaeological and pipeline route surveys
(geophysical and geotechnical samplings) to determine the suitability of the selected
route(s), and any mandatory surveys required by the national and/ or local regulations. For
these early stage activities, Principal’s Geomatics group is recommended.
This new DEP-Gen. is a revision of the former deep water projects standard of the same
number dated May 2008; see (1.5) regarding the changes.

1.2 DISTRIBUTION, INTENDED USE AND REGULATORY CONSIDERATIONS

Unless otherwise authorised by Shell GSI, the distribution of this DEP is confined to Shell
companies and, where necessary, to Contractors and Manufacturers/Suppliers nominated
by them. Any authorised access to DEPs does not for that reason constitute an
authorization to any documents, data or information to which the DEPs may refer.
This DEP is intended for use in facilities related to offshore oil and gas production (pipeline,
flowline, umbilical riser projects) Application in other facilities may also apply.
When DEPs are applied, a Management of Change (MOC) process should be
implemented; this is of particular importance when existing facilities are to be modified.
If national and/or local regulations exist in which some of the requirements may be more
stringent than in this DEP, the Contractor shall determine by careful scrutiny which of the
requirements are the more stringent and which combination of requirements will be
acceptable with regard to the safety, environmental, economic and legal aspects. In all
cases the Contractor shall inform the Principal of any deviation from the requirements of
this DEP which is considered to be necessary in order to comply with national and/or local
regulations. The Principal may then negotiate with the Authorities concerned, the objective
being to obtain agreement to follow this DEP as closely as possible.

1.3 DEFINITIONS
1.3.1 General definitions
The Contractor is the party that carries out all or part of the design, engineering,
procurement, construction, commissioning or management of a project or operation of a
facility. The Principal may undertake all or part of the duties of the Contractor.
The Manufacturer/Supplier is the party that manufactures or supplies equipment and
services to perform the duties specified by the Contractor.
The Principal is the party that initiates the project and ultimately pays for it. The Principal
may also include an agent or consultant authorised to act for, and on behalf of, the
Principal.
The word shall indicates a requirement.
The word should indicates a recommendation.
The word may is an option to be confirmed with Principal
The word work is used to define the work to be executed by the Contractor as defined in
the Invitation to Tender or Contract Scope of Work.
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1.3.2 Abbreviations

AUV Autonomous Underwater Vehicle

BOEMRE Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, Regulation and Enforcement
(applicable for Gulf of Mexico operations only)
CP Cathodic Protection
C-O Computed minus Observed
CRP Common Reference Point
CTD Conductivity, Temperature, and Depth
DGNSS Differential Global Navigational Satellite System
DHSS Dual Head Scanning Sonar
DMA Deadman Anchor
DP Dynamic Positioning
EHF Extra High Frequency
EPROM Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory
FOG Fibre Optic Gyro
FTA Flowline Termination Assembly
GoM Gulf of Mexico
GNSS Global Navagation Satelite System
ITRF International Terrestrial Reference Frame
KP Kilometre Posts
LBL Long Baseline Acoustic System
MF Medium Frequency
MOC Management of Change
MP Mile Post
MSL Mean Seal Level
NTL Notice to Lessees
OOS Out Of Straightness
RMS Root Mean Square
RO Reference Object
ROV Remotely Operated Vehicle
SCR Steel Catenary Riser
SSBL Super Short Baseline System
SVP Sound Velocity Profiler
USBL Ultra Short Baseline Acoustic System
UTA Umbilical Termination Assembly
UTC Coordinated Universal Time
UTH Umbilical Termination Head
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1.4 CROSS-REFERENCES
Where cross-references to other parts of this DEP are made, the referenced section
number is shown in brackets ( ). Other documents referenced by this DEP are listed in (11).

1.5 SUMMARY OF MAIN CHANGES

This DEP-Gen. is a revision of the deep water projects standard of the same number dated
May 2008. The following are the main, non-editorial changes.
Old New Change
section section
Revised Section numbering because of insertion of new Sections
NA 3.0 Added Section on Geodetic Control (from SES 95-3 (SSB – 2000)
Positioning and Site Investigation for Offshore Engineering and
Construction Work)
NA 5.0 Added Section on Personnel requirements (from SES 95-3)
App A App A A.2.3 Updated sound velocity accuracy and Echo Sounder error
check (A.4.7)
App D App D Deleted Table D2 (Measurement Accuracy for Jumpers) – this is
addressed in DEP 37.80.00.38-Gen.

1.6 COMMENTS ON THIS DEP

Comments on this DEP may be sent to the Administrator at standards@shell.com, using
the DEP Feedback Form. The DEP Feedback Form can be found on the main page of
“DEPs on the Web”, available through the Global Technical Standards web portal
http://sww.shell.com/standards and on the main page of the DEPs DVD-ROM.
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2. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
Pre-lay surveys may be required prior to any structure and pipelay installation operation.
This requirement varies from project to project. This event may be necessary due to the
time gap between the original survey performed during the design stage and the installation
start date. In the event pre-lay survey is required by the project team or by the national
and/or local regulations, this shall be carried out in close consultation with the project team
such that its start date and completion do not impact the construction works.
The objectives of a pre-lay survey are:
• To confirm the location and pipeline route(s) are clear of obstructions that may
impede the installation process
• To ensure that the anchoring corridors, in case an anchored barge is used during
installation, are clearly mapped of seabed obstructions that may slow the
structure/pipelay installation process.
• To confirm status of pre-lay intervention works
A pre-lay survey may consist of either:
• A remotely operated vehicle (ROV) survey
• A Geophysical survey - Towed sensor or autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV)
If the pre-lay survey results show debris/relics of historical or archaeological significance,
the process of notification as described in (8.10) shall be followed.
Pipeline inspection surveys are required at various stages of installation, operations, and
any subsequent inspection works. The stages during which a pipeline inspection survey
would typically be required include the following:
a) Pipeline installation support.
b) As-Laid Surveys
c) As-Trenched Surveys
d) As-Built Surveys (after post-lay interventions such as trenching/rock dumping or
remedial works such as span rectification).
e) Periodic Inspection works
The objectives of a pipeline inspection survey are further defined as:
1) Confirmation of location and integrity of the pipeline.
2) Location of all pipelines, cables and any other under water structures that may affect
the pipeline under inspection.
3) Confirmation of the seabed topography.
4) Establish and confirm the locations given in the referenced drawings for subsea
structures and seabed features respectively.
5) Confirmation of the status of relevant third party installations.
A pipeline inspection survey may consist of either:
i. A Geophysical survey - Towed sensor or AUV
ii. An ROV investigation of pipeline condition, crossings and any peripheral pipeline
assemblies.
iii. Alternatively, a combination of both ROV and Geophysical surveys.
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3 GEODETIC CONTROL
The selection of coordinates system and any survey control points used in any aspect of
the work (either onshore or offshore), shall be approved by Principal before use. Principal
(with the assistance of local Shell Geomatics group) shall provide details of geodetic
parameters for the proposed work site, Contractor will review geodetic details, and
immediately advise of any discrepancies or if unable to achieve required configuration with
contractor’s navigation software system. Principal may accept alternate geodetic algorithms
that would yield similar results, after review and approval from the local Shell’s Geomatics
group.
Details of geodetic system and survey control used during the work shall be properly
documented and included in the final report to Principal.

3.1 HORIZONTAL DATUM AND PROJECTIONS

Typical navigation systems will receive differential global navigation satellite system
(DGNSS) position information based on WGS 84 Geographic Coordinate Reference
System and undergo coordinate transformation to the appropriate local system required for
the work site. Details of the local projection parameters and transformation method shall be
shown in all project planning and reporting. Field operating units must be clearly indicated
in all work packages, and angular units should be displayed in Grid degrees (°), in the
absence of project specific requirements.

3.2 VERTICAL DATUM

Depth information displayed or reported in all work packages, shall include details of the
tidal datum, any local reference stations, and/or any models used for work. Mean Sea
Level (MSL) shall be used as vertical datum in the absence of project specific
requirements.

3.3 TIME DATUM

Time information displayed or reported in all work packages, shall include details of the
time zone used for work. Time zone details shall include offset references to Coordinated
Universal Time (UTC).
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4 SURVEY EQUIPMENT

4.1 SURFACE POSITIONING – DGNSS

Surface positioning of the installation or survey vessel shall utilize DGNSS. This shall
include continuous, real-time output of navigation data to the vessel dynamic positioning
(DP) computer. A minimum of two (2) independent sources of differential corrections shall
be provided and 100% redundancy in DGNSS positioning equipment shall be provided. The
vessel shall use a true-north seeking gyrocompass or a global navigation satellite system
(GNSS) based attitude & heading sensor for orientation (Ref: Appendix B for Gyro
operational information). Where applicable, input from a heave, pitch, roll sensor shall also
be used to make real-time corrections to the positioning data. The accuracy of DGNSS
shall be better than 3 m, in the absence of any project specific requirements.
During pipelay, the navigation software shall display the installation vessel’s real-time
location relative to the proposed route. The display must also include seafloor facilities,
hazards, and any proposed installation critical positions. Navigation data/display shall
include touchdown, distance downline [stations such as kilometre posts (KP), mile post
(MP), etc.], and cross track information during pipelay.
Demonstration of the proper setup of the online navigation shall be performed by the survey
contractor prior to the commencement of the positioning activities and shall include the
following:
• Proper geodetic parameter application.
• Correct inputs from the DGNSS equipment and gyrocompass.
• Correct application of the antennae offsets.
(See Appendix C for DGNSS Health check guidelines)
The proposed Barge Track route must show where the vessel should be during pipelay to
maintain the pipeline’s touch down point based on lay table information (i.e. Pipelay
vessel’s offset along curves).
The monitors displaying the vessel’s position shall be located (at a minimum) on the bridge,
at the DP operator’s station, and at the ROV pilot’s station.

4.2 TOUCHDOWN MONITORING

Actual touchdown data may be obtained by positioning the ROV at the touchdown of the
pipeline. The ROV based touchdown data shall be relayed from the Survey/ROV vessel
through a real-time data transmission link. Subsea positioning requirements are given in
(4.3) and (4.4).

4.3 SUBSEA ACOUSTIC POSITIONING – ULTRA SHORT BASELINE SYSTEM

Based on installation tolerances, a calibrated Ultra-Short Baseline System (USBL) may be
required for subsea positioning. USBL systems shall utilize a motion sensor and real-time
gyrocompass input to correct for the vessel’s attitude. The absolute accuracy of USBL shall
be better than 0.5% of the slant range.
Reference (Appendix A) for USBL operational information.
Any subsea equipment requiring USBL positioning shall follow the displaying requirements
detailed in (3.1). Acoustically positioned hardware must be shown relative to any existing
seafloor features, on the navigation screen.

4.4 SUBSEA ACOUSTIC POSITIONING – LONG BASELINE SYSTEM

Based on installation tolerances, a calibrated long baseline system (LBL) may be required
for subsea positioning. Precise positioning applications may require an LBL array of
transponders installed on the seafloor.
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The operating frequency and signal architecture of the LBL system must be appropriate to
the water depth, environment and positioning requirement. The distribution of transponders
on the seabed must be planned to provide positional coverage within the area
encompassed by the resulting network with sufficient redundancy and adequate fix
geometry over the entire area of interest. Typically a medium frequency system (18-36
kHz) should be used to establish positioning with a relative accuracy of better than 1 meter.
Extra high frequency (EHF) (50-110 kHz) is typically used to establish positioning with
relative accuracy better than 10 centimetres. However, modern developments in signal
processing and architecture mean that positional accuracy is no longer related solely to
operational frequency.
The methods used to install transponders on the seabed must be consistent with the most
efficient utilisation of vessel time and facilitate the installation and removal of transponders
by ROV where appropriate. Design and fabrication of the transponder frames must comply
with the field’s requirement for either short-term or long-term utilization, where the size and
mass incorporates the appropriate stability and cathodic protection.
The geometry of the transponder network and the equipment and methodology employed
to conduct the calibration must support calibration with an accuracy that is consistent with
the end requirement for positioning. In particular the instrumentation used to determine the
speed of sound in water and the relative depths of the array transponders must be selected
and deployed in a manner that is consistent with the expected variation in sound speed at
array depth and the horizontal separation between transponders. The calibration process
must yield sufficient redundant observations to enable the computation of statistical
estimates of the calibration quality and also include appropriate QC checks to identify gross
error in the resulting transponder coordinates. Where the magnitude of the variation in tidal
height at the work site may result in a significant impact on the accuracy of subsequent
positioning operations the seabed equipment should include instrumentation to enable the
accurate real-time measurement of tidal height during those operations.
Contractor utilizing the array shall maintain all relevant information of the calibration (if
applicable) or positioned LBL targets (i.e. baseline, sound velocity, logged positioning files,
range measurements, transponder locations, offsets, etc…). Contractor shall also ensure
that sufficient redundant measurements are taken to ensure a high level of confidence in
any final reported positions [i.e. four (4) or greater range fix, multiple observations on target
transponder, acceptable statistical values for computed position, Low Root Mean Square
(RMS), etc.]
Contractor must demonstrate the effective control of error in the positioning solution
through rigorous operational procedures consistent with industry best practice. Sufficient
redundancy must be provided in equipment to identify bias in the derived values for the
speed of sound in seawater and the depths of objects being positioned within the network.
The level of redundancy during positioning must be consistent with the accuracy
requirement and provide appropriate statistical measures of the quality of the computed
positions.

4.5 SUBSEA MEASUREMENTS – ATTITUDE / ORIENTATION / HEIGHT

Attitude of subsea hardware shall be measured using appropriate instrumentation and
methods.
The orientation of subsea hardware shall be measured using a calibrated underwater
gyrocompass. The gyro shall be deployed in suitable pressure housings and be capable of
real-time monitoring and reporting through a hardwire link or through an acoustic link.
Orientation may also be computed from the position of two (2) transponders mounted at
known locations on the subsea hardware if it can be shown that this method will provide
sufficient accuracy.
Subsea height/depth measurements shall be made using high precision depth sensors
capable of measuring to the required accuracy. At each subsea location, a reference point
must be established on a piece of hardware that can be defined as the local relative datum.
Heights of other points in the immediate vicinity shall be referenced to this local datum.
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The absolute depth of all local datum points throughout the field shall be measured and
referenced to Mean Sea Level or other such vertical datum as specified by Principal.
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5 PERSONNEL

5.1 GENERAL
The survey contractor shall engage a team with capabilities and experience consistent with
the project’s requirements. The survey contractor shall make available the curriculum vitae
(CVs) of the proposed staff and any proposed alternates two (2) weeks prior to project
mobilization. The survey contractor shall identify the individual who will become the single
point of contact, and can address questions regarding the technical, commercial, and
logistics aspects of the work. The survey contractor shall be responsible for providing all
necessary safety training, equipment and protective clothing for personnel. This should
include but not be limited to hard hat, safety boots, eye protection, flame-retardant clothing
and hearing protection to required international standards.
Survey contractor should provide key support personnel to the project, which may include:
• Survey Operations Manager
• Survey Project Manager
• Party Chief / Senior Surveyor
• Survey Engineer
• Online Surveyor
The staffing requirements and quantity shall be agreed with Shell prior to the project
mobilization. Contractor shall inform of the Principal of any replacement personnel prior to
carrying out thereof. Key personnel shall not be replaced without notification and obtaining
Principal consent, which shall not be unreasonably withheld. Contractor shall allow
adequate overlap time to ensure knowledge transfer, and continuous work.

5.2 SURVEY OPERATIONS MANAGER

The Survey Operations Manager will have overall responsibility for the proper execution of
the work scope. The survey contractor will assign qualified and competent personnel to the
project and follow the day-to-day progress, while providing daily reports. The Survey
Operations Manager will monitor reporting and deliverable’s progress to ensure that all
requirements and deadlines are met.

5.3 SURVEY PROJECT MANAGER

The Project Manager will be responsible for mobilization / demobilization of the project. The
Project Manager will liaise as necessary with the offshore crew and client for the project
duration. The Project Manager will develop all survey procedure documentation for review
and comment.

5.4 PARTY CHIEF/SENIOR SURVEYOR

The Party Chief shall have a minimum 5 years offshore experience and in a responsible
charge role of similar projects. The Party Chief/Senior Surveyor shall possess suitable
surveying skills with a degree in Surveying or Post Gradate Diploma in Hydrographic
Surveying or similar.
In addition they might be called upon after completion of the field survey to finalise or clarify
field data, which may appear ambiguous, at no extra cost to the Principal, until Principal
has accepted positioning data.

5.5 SURVEY ENGINEER

Survey Engineer should have a minimum of 4 years operational survey experience.
Incumbent should be certificated at higher technical level in electronics and electro-
mechanical equipment maintenance and repair. Back-up Survey Engineer shall be optional,
as required.
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5.6 ONLINE SURVEYOR

The Online Surveyor shall have a minimum 2 years experience and participated, in an
online capacity.
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6 PRE-LAY SURVEY
The purpose of the pre-lay survey is to ensure that the location, pipeline route and the
anchoring corridor (for anchored type barge) during the installation are clear of seabed
obstructions.
A pre-lay survey in deepwater shall normally be performed with sensors mounted on an
ROV, and would typically include the same tools required for the as-laid survey as
described in (7). Contractor shall propose method by which pre-lay survey is conducted in
water depths not suitable for ROV survey for approval by Principal.
Pre-lay survey for pipeline, flowline and umbilical routes, including startup and laydown
cable routes, shall extend to accommodate a project designated route corridor. Pre-lay
surveys shall be carried out to the same quality and specification as described in (7).
Apart from those debris/relics of historical or archaeological significance, which requires
appropriate notification to the parties concerned as described in (8.10) any other debris
shall also be evented as follows:
• Logged the position and describe the object
• Logged its new position if it has been moved
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7 AS-LAID SURVEY
The purpose of the As-Laid survey is to record the installed position and initial post-
installation condition of the pipeline. Any significant events shall be logged for inclusion in
the As-Built documentation. The pipeline location shall be determined in three (3)
dimensions, with all significant pipeline appurtenances logged and documented. The
pipeline data shall be logged at a rate sufficient to meet this DEP. As-laid surveys shall
follow (8) for data logging and minimum requirement guidelines.
The survey shall normally be performed with sensors mounted on an ROV, and would
typically include:
a) Survey-grade gyrocompass with Pitch and Roll and Heading output.
b) Precision depth sensor (pressure sensor).
c) Precision altimeter.
d) Dual head sector scanning sonar system.
e) USBL transponder and/or responder.
f) LBL transducer for operations within any calibrated LBL array areas.
g) Centre mounted colour camera.
h) Port and Starboard boom mounted colour cameras.
i) Pipe tracking system, utilized when a pipeline is suspected of being buried.
j) Doppler seabed tracking system utilized for smoothing raw USBL data in deep water.
k) Swathe bathymetry system [ROV mounted dual head scanning sonar (DHSS)
system may be used as an option; however, the use of swathe bathymetry system is
preferred for As-Trenched/As-Built Surveys]
The majority of the above sensors require specific calibration routines to be adhered to;
inspection of the relevant survey methodologies would be required in conjunction with the
Manufacturers’ quoted recommendations.
The pipeline survey shall commence from the first pipeline joint weld at the initiation
assembly, and be completed at the final pipeline joint weld at the termination assembly.
Before commencement of event logging the "Off-track" and "Distance along line"
calculations and signage conventions in use must be checked for correctness. Particular
care shall be taken if the survey is to be run in reverse MP (KP) order.
Coordinates of the pipeline, features, and anomalies shall be determined continuously. .
The standard deviation of the data must be equal to or less than the accuracy of the
positioning system.
Completed As-Laid surveys of pipelines that do not require post-lay intervention such as
trenching, rock dumping etc or remedial works such as span rectification etc will be
classified as As-Built.
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The standard navigation and pipeline specific data to be logged during an As-Laid survey
shall include the following:
a) Surface vessel position – common reference point (CRP), and Raw DGNSS antenna
positions.
b) Surface vessel gyrocompass heading data.
c) USBL positioning data for all sub surface vehicles including dX, dY, dZ, Pitch, Roll,
and, if possible, Heave.
d) ROV’s USBL positioning beacon location.
e) ROV’s LBL transducer location for operations within any calibrated LBL array areas.
f) ROV gyrocompass heading, including Pitch and Roll.
g) ROV DHSS scan data.
h) ROV Depth Sensor and Altimeter data.
i) ROV pipe-tracker data (if applicable)
j) ROV’s mounted cameras (including Centre, and Port & Starboard boom mounted);
all video shall be recorded digitally.
k) Swathe bathymetry data (if this system is opted over the ROV mounted DHSS
system).
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8 EVENTING
In addition to the navigation logging described in (7), the Online Surveyor shall perform
Eventing in real-time. Eventing is the digital annotation of the pipeline and associated
features that may affect the stability/longevity of the installed pipeline. Eventing shall
include continuous capture of video images of the pipeline that corresponds to real-time
positioning data. During the Eventing process, any anomalies or project-identified features
shall require a position fix. The position fix may include a sample data set to improve the
confidence level of the feature’s location.
Features and anomalies to be evented shall include, but are not limited to:
a) Field joint, including the individual condition.
b) Pipeline crossings: The location of the crossing, and whether any pipeline protection
is in place such as mattresses. This shall be cross-referenced to any spans that are
caused by the crossing.
c) Anode, including the individual condition.
d) Buckle Arrestors, including individual condition.
e) Weight coat (if applicable), condition along the pipeline, only annotated in areas of
deterioration/damage.
f) General pipeline damage - All dents and gouges, buckling of pipeline
g) Flanges: Location of flanges, if within an LBL array the positional data should be
from LBL techniques. Condition and type of flanges, Absence of cathodic protection,
and physical protection frames.
h) Free spans: Location of the start and end of all free spans, Maximum free span
height, and Descriptor outlining cause of free span mainly used when spans are
caused by pipeline crossings.
i) Burial Location: of the start and end of burial sections, Burial depth - if this is required
in the Scope of Work, and Descriptor if burial is caused by a specific event.
j) Debris: The type of debris, whether metallic or non-metallic, Proximity of the debris to
pipeline, including whether the debris is actually in contact with the pipeline.
Descriptor providing details of the debris type, this is especially important for larger
pieces of debris. Any indication of debris that may be of historical or archaeological
significance shall be immediately reported to the Principal Representative. Such
debris shall not be disturbed without the concurrence of the Principal Representative.
k) Cathodic Potential Values: The location of cathodic readings that are below the
project DEP.
l) Any other non-specific events that do not fall into any specific category.
m) The speed of the survey shall be adjusted so that the online surveyor can adequately
keep up with the eventing task. All significant observations, such as spans, damage
and unsupported crossings, shall be confirmed with the Principal Representative.

8.1 FIELD JOINTS

All field joints shall be evented as a minimum using video time log, except where buried.
When burial occurs, the ROV shall be piloted along the design route or burial spoil, until the
pipeline reappears. The field joint numbering will require forced alteration to agree at the
point where the pipeline reappears. Instances where damages at the field joints are
observed, position fixes shall be taken and annotations such as condition of the field joint,
damage, etc shall be required. Each field joint shall be evented when the joint is in vertical
alignment with the DHSS units.

8.2 PIPELINE CROSSINGS

The pipeline crossing shall be inspected to determine the point of intersection between the
two pipelines.
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The third party pipeline shall be traversed for a distance of at least 25m (80 ft) either side of
the crossing point. The ROV shall be flown along the crown of the third party pipeline,
whenever possible. The pipeline heading is to be determined from this data to provide
adequate orientation control for crossing drawings. In addition if an anchor moored vessel
is used for construction activities and if the mooring line crosses an existing pipeline, a pre
and post anchor survey covering a distance of at least 50 m (160 ft) beyond the anchor
corridor shall be performed to confirm the condition of the crossed pipeline before and after
crossing.
The extent and condition of any physical separation barrier such as mattresses shall also
be examined. This shall include the size of the individual barriers, orientation, and quantity.
Additionally, note shall be taken if the barriers are butt joined, overlapping, or possess a
physical separation between consecutive barrier components.
In the case of pipelines physically touching, clear annotation shall be made indicating that
the two pipes are in physical contact. Physical contact will directly affect the cathodic
protection data.
The common essentials that are to be noted for a pipeline crossing:
a) Pipeline names and type.
b) The existence and type of pipeline separation barriers.
c) Height of separation if required to do so by Principal.
d) Subtended angle between the two pipelines.
e) Coating damage (if applicable).
f) Span lengths created by the crossing
g) Maximum Span height created by the crossing

8.3 PIPELINE LATERAL BUCKLE TRIGGERS

The pipeline lateral buckle triggers, if installed, shall be inspected to determine spans on
either side of the trigger location and lateral movement, if any, of the pipeline from centre
line. The same information shall be reported as in (8.8) but data logging shall be at 3 m
intervals.

8.4 ANODES
There are four (4) main items to be assessed when eventing anodes. These are:
• Location
• Type
• Wear or erosion
• Marine Growth

The Location and Type (bracelet, strip etc.) are straightforward and require no
explanation. The type will normally be known by the client from the pipeline DEPs; this may
then be checked while performing the As-Laid survey.
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When addressing Wear or Erosion during an As-laid survey on a new pipeline, the anodes
will naturally be at 100% capacity, therefore the following will not normally apply.
• Severe erosion: The majority of the anode has a heavily corroded surface, and less
than 25% of physical material remains.
• Medium erosion: Up to 50% of the anode is covered by deep pitting, especially
along edges and mounting faces, and between 75% to 25% of physical material
remains.
• Light erosion: moderate pitting especially along edges, however, the majority of the
flat exposed surface is clear of erosion.
• Newly Installed: Check that attachment mechanism to the pipeline is in place, and
that the anode appears to make solid physical contact with the pipeline.
Additionally, the presence of Marine Growth on the anode will indicate the general level of
erosion activity on the anode in question. When an anode is functioning correctly there will
be little marine growth (irrespective of overall erosion level). However, if the anode were
coated with significant marine growth, this would indicate that there is minimal electrolytic
activity - possibly indicating that the physical bond to the pipeline has failed or is failing.
The whole area of anode review is not easy to quantify with rigid specifications, because
anode design, DEPs, and specifications vary. Therefore, if there is some doubt as to the
classification of specific anodes, the inspection videos should be reviewed by experienced
personnel to validate the original online classification.

8.5 BUCKLE ARRESTORS

The pipeline design DEPs shall be examined to identify areas where buckle arrestors are
planned to be deployed. In general, they take the form of steel reinforcement around field
joints mounting faces. Therefore, eventing should inspect buckle arrestors for the following:
• Coating damage
• Apparent physical integrity of the arrestor piece.
In the case of out of straightness (OOS) surveys, the physical integrity of the buckle
arrestors will be a prime area of interest. Therefore, extra time may be required whilst
surveying these areas to ensure an adequate data density, to assess the OSS properties of
the immediate pipeline either side of the arrestor.

8.6 WEIGHT COAT

Typically weight coat will be made of concrete and in normal condition will encircle the
pipeline. Due to the physical nature of pipelay, minor insignificant "damage" may well be
observed around field joint areas. However, this would not normally be considered as
weight coat damage, but more a consequence of the pipelay operation. The classification of
standard weight coat damage is summarized as follows:
• Grade 1: Total weight coat loss across 50% or more of the pipeline circumference
at any given MP (KP), and/or reinforcement damage. In addition, any areas of
coating loss that include underlying pipeline damage (gouging or scaring).
• Grade 2: Localized areas of coating loss extending up to 50% of the circumference
of the pipeline. Reinforcement is undamaged and intact, no underlying pipeline
damage (gouging or scarring).
• Grade 3: Minor areas of coating loss, with no reinforcement damage and no
pipeline damage (gouging or scarring).
• Grade 4: Minor concrete spalling (flaking and surface break-up) not extending to
the underlying reinforcement, and/or pipeline.
The grades are guidelines only.
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Areas that are classified as "Grade 1" requires detailed inspection as serious damage to
the pipeline may be in evidence. All areas of this type must be reported to the Principal
Representative, and reviewed.

8.7 GENERAL PIPELINE DAMAGE

All noticeable areas of pipeline damage shall be annotated even if the level of damage may
appear to fall within the installation or Manufacturers’ specification. Once noted, video
review may be performed to ascertain the severity or significance of the "damage". Events
to be noted are:
• Scarring.
• Gouges.
• Indentations

8.8 FREE SPANS

The determination of the exact size and nature of a pipeline free span shall be performed
via an ROV mounted profiling system. This shall typically take the form of either a dual
head sector scanning (DHSS) system, or a swathe bathymetry system. The profiling
system will provide the relational data required between the pipeline and the surrounding
seabed (perpendicular to the pipeline). Therefore, free spans will be indicated by a
separation of the pipeline in relation to the seabed either side of the pipeline at any given
point. The minimum resolvable free span shall be determined by the speed of the ROV and
the update rate of the profiling system. The speed of the ROV during survey activities must
be closely monitored to ensure that the resolution required by the Scope of Work is always
achievable. Additionally, it should be considered normal practice to lower the speed of the
ROV in areas where multiple free spans are expected. This will increase the available
profile data density, thus aiding the data processor in areas of multiple consecutive spans.
The minimum free span length to event would normally be any free span in excess of one
(1) pipe joint (approximately 12 m), unless otherwise specified.
The "minimum reportable free span" will be project driven and is not necessarily the same
as the minimum loggable free span. Any spans that exceed the minimum reportable length
shall require adequate video review with cross-reference to the processed span data. There
will normally be a maximum free span length, above which all free spans will be regarded
as "critical free spans". These free spans shall require a more detailed video review and
may well require rectification works.
The following details must be logged for all free spans:
a) The start and end locations/coordinates of the spans.
b) The length of the free span.
c) The maximum separation of pipeline to seabed.
d) Data logging regarding the separation of the pipeline to seabed at a minimum interval
of one (1) pipe joint (12 m unless specified)
e) The cause of the free span (pipeline crossing, seabed feature etc.).
f) Pipeline status -- Has the span data been recorded pre or post flooding of the
pipeline?
g) Scours are recorded separately, and are not classified as free spans.

8.9 PIPELINE BURIAL

The location of the start and end of the pipeline burial shall be evented. The depth of burial
will (if required) normally be determined using a magnetic pipe tracking system. When
burial depth is a requirement, precise calibration of the relevant tracking system must be
performed prior to the initiation of survey activities. The procedure for calibration must
adhere to the equipment Manufacturer’s specifications. In order to adequately calibrate the
ECCN EAR99 DEP 31.40.11.32-Gen.
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pipe-tracking system, adequate time must be set aside for the procedure. The pipe-tracking
data must be logged digitally; the update rate of the unit will influence the speed at which
the survey operations may be completed.
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The following details must be logged for all sections of burial:

• The start and end of burial including MP (KP).
• The depth of burial - where applicable.
• The cause of burial, when this is due to man-made phenomena. An example of this
would be when a pipeline exits a J tube pull-in, there is likely to be burial adjacent
to the J tube in soft silty seabed conditions.
In areas of pipeline burial, field joint numbering would not normally be quoted in any final
field joint event listings.

8.10 DEBRIS
Debris is concerned with any non-metallic and metallic objects in the direct vicinity of the
pipeline. However, sufficient descriptive annotation must be noted to adequately describe
the form of the debris, so that an accurate evaluation of pipeline damage risk may be
performed.
There are a number of items that may be directly attached to the pipeline during normal lay
activities, to assist with the deployment of the pipeline. These items would normally be
evented, but are not normally considered hazardous to the pipeline's integrity.
Particular emphasis shall be placed on ferrous metallic debris that either touches the
pipeline directly, or is in close proximity to the pipeline. This type of debris may require
further review and additional survey time to investigate fully.
Any indication of debris, which may be of historical or archaeological significance, shall be
immediately reported to the Principal Representative. Such debris shall not be disturbed
without the concurrence of the Principal Representative.
When working in the Gulf of Mexico (GoM) region, BOEMRE (Bureau of Ocean Energy
Management, Regulation and Enforcement) regulatory document NTL2005-G07
“Archaeological Resource Surveys and Reports [or most current Notice to Lessees (NTL)]
found at http://www.boemre.gov/ntls/) shall be followed.

8.11 CATHODIC PROTECTION VALUES

Measurement of cathodic protection (CP) values will be dependent upon the hardware
employed. Calibration shall follow the Manufacturer’s guidelines for the equipment system
in use, with logs of all recorded calibration data.
The CP equipment has a very limited working range; therefore, the ROV - pipeline
separation shall be closely monitored during CP measurement activities to ensure the
maximum separation is not exceeded. Areas where the ROV - pipeline separation is in
excess of the maximum separation must be re-observed, unless the separation limit was
not attainable due to physical constraints. Where this is the case, these areas shall be
clearly documented and agreed with the Principal Representative offshore.
Notwithstanding the above, the following general points must be adhered to.
CP stabs will be taken at the following:
• Once every 1000 m (3000 ft) of pipeline, or more frequently if the CP values are
fluctuating by more than 30mV per 1000 m (3000 ft). The frequency of the stabs if
the potential is fluctuating shall be agreed with the Principal Representative
offshore and confirmed in writing.
• At all flanges, valves, and associated protective assemblies.
• Any areas of coating damage where the pipeline and/or reinforcement are visible.
ECCN EAR99 DEP 31.40.11.32-Gen.
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9 AS-TRENCHED AND AS-BUILT SURVEYS

9.1 AS-TRENCHED SURVEY

The purpose of the As-Trenched survey is to record the installed position and post-trenched
location of the pipeline. Any significant events shall be logged for inclusion in the As-Built
documentation. This information shall also be supplied to the Trenching Contractor to assist
in trenching. The pipeline location will be determined in three (3) dimensions.
During trenching operations, ROV surveys shall be conducted at a distance from the
trenching machine considered both safe for the ROV, and where visibility and seabed
settlement is such that good video, pipe-tracking and sonar records can be obtained.
During the course of the video survey, depth of lowering shall be determined by profiles,
which shall be taken of the pipe and trench at the specified interval using a dual head
scanning profiler and bathymetry systems. In areas of pipe transition into and out of the
trench, and where free spans are detected, increased profile data density may be required.
The profiler system shall be mounted on the ROV to give the optimum view of the trench
profile, without jeopardizing the equipment itself. The general logging procedure for all
relevant data shall follow the guidelines set out in (7) for As-Laid surveys.
The final As-Trenched survey data may be upgraded to As-Built status provided the survey
data does not indicate that any intervention works are required. The data may only be
upgraded to As-Built status once all survey data has been processed, analyzed and
accepted by Principal as not requiring remedial works.

9.2 AS-BUILT SURVEYS

Completed As-Laid surveys of pipelines that do not require post-lay intervention such as
trenching, rock dumping, etc or remedial works such as span rectification, etc will be
classified as As-Built.
The As-Built survey will generally be the final survey after any tie-in works, post-lay
intervention / remedial works have been completed. If the pipeline has been visibly
covered, the horizontal positional data from the As-Laid/As-Trenched survey may be used
in the As-Built documentation.
If the pipeline does require post-lay interventions, an As-Built survey shall be conducted
over those sections of pipeline that have been remediated. In addition, the As-Built survey
shall extend 50 m (150 ft) on either side of the remediated section. As-Built surveys shall
be carried out to the same quality and specification as described in (7).
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10 DELIVERABLES
As-built data shall be delivered to Principal in the following formats:

10.1 CHARTING
The project specific co-ordinate system including spheroid, datum (and datum relation to
WGS84), projection and projection system parameters shall be as specified in the scope of
work.
Charts shall include the proposed pipeline route with approved permitted installation
corridor and the as-installed location of the pipeline.
Chart will include the locations and annotation of all crossings, anodes, damaged areas,
free spans, burial, debris, etc.
Charts shall contain legends that correspond to features shown on the charts.
Charts shall be provided in electronic format (AutoCAD and ArcGIS).

10.2 REPORTING
The following sets out the minimum requirement for reporting of As-laid / As-built surveys
by the Contractor. Unless stated otherwise in the CONTRACT/Scope of Work, it shall apply
to all As-Laid / As-Built surveys.
The report shall be concise and allow easy access to the survey results. It shall provide
salient facts and a critical review of all aspects of the survey(s).
Sample reporting format may be as shown below (where applicable):
a) Title Page
b) Location Map
c) Table of Contents
i) Introduction
ii) Project Details
• LBL Array installation
• As-built coordinates of sub-sea installations
iii) Geodetic Parameters
• Projection Parameters
• Local Datum Transformation Parameters
iv) Equipment and Instrumentation
• DGNSS system
• USBL equipment
• EHF/medium frequency (MF) LBL equipment
• Conductivity, temperature, and depth (CTD) equipment
• ROV and accessories
• ROV mounted DHSS, Video Cameras etc.
v) Calibration and System Checks
• DGNSS System Check
• Gyro Compass Verification Check
• USBL System Calibration
• LBL Calibration Procedure
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• ROV and ROV Gyro Compass Checks

vi) Summary of Operations
• Daily Survey Operations
vii) Conclusions and Recommendations
viii) List of Figures
ix) List of Pictures
x) List of Appendices
The report shall be submitted in two (2) stages:
a) Stage 1 - Draft report
b) Stage 2 - Final report
The timings for submission of these reports shall be in accordance with the contract.
Draft Report - The Contractor shall submit a "draft" copy of the As-built survey report to
Principal for checking and approval. The word "draft" shall be clearly visible on the front
page. This report does not have to be bound. A copy of the text shall also be provided on
CD-ROM.
Final Report - The Contractor shall submit a final report of the As-built survey report as
specified below.
Quantity - The number of copies of the report to be provided to Principal shall be as defined
in the Scope of Work.
Report Construction - The original copies of the As-built Report shall be contained in a hard
backed folder of good quality, capable of retaining the contents of the report. All volumes
shall be labeled on the spine of the folder with the location name and dates of work.
A digital copy of the report shall be supplied on CD-ROM and shall include electronic
versions of all attachments. Documents that are handwritten may be scanned for inclusion
on the CD-ROM, but care must be taken to ensure that the resulting raster image is legible.

10.3 DIGITAL PIPELINE AS-BUILT POSITION DATA

The Contractor shall submit digital pipeline as-built in the United Kingdom Offshore
Operators Association (UKOOA) P5/94 format.
UKOAA P5/94: http://www.epsg.org/Exchange/P5.pdf
If working within the Gulf of Mexico region, the digital pipeline as-built data shall also be
submitted in the format outlined in the US Department of the Interior’s Bureau of Ocean
Energy Management, Regulation and Enforcement (BOEMRE) Notice to Lessee, NTL
2009-G15 (or most current NTL).
BOEMRE NTL 2009-G15:
http://www.gomr.boemre.gov/homepg/regulate/regs/ntls/2009NTLs/09-g15.pdf
When working within other regions, the Contractor shall follow any local regulatory reporting
format requirements and guidelines.
All as-built position data shall be supplied to Principal on CD-ROM.
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11 REFERENCES

In this DEP, reference is made to the following publications:

NOTES: 1. Unless specifically designated by date, the latest edition of each publication shall be used,
together with any amendments/supplements/revisions thereto.
2. The DEPs and most referenced external standards are available to Shell staff on the SWW (Shell
Wide Web) at http://sww.shell.com/standards/.

SHELL STANDARDS
Deepwater jumper design, measurement, fabrication and testing DEP 37.80.00.38-Gen.

AMERICAN STANDARDS
Archaeological Resource Surveys and Reports NTL 2005-G07
Digital Pipeline Location Data NTL 2009-G15
http://www.gomr.boemre.gov/homepg/regulate/regs/ntls/2009NTLs/
09-g15.pdf
Issued by:
US Department of the Interior, Bureau of Ocean Energy
Management, Regulation and Enforcement
381 Elden Street
Herndon, VA 20170-4817
http://www.boemre.gov/ntls/

BRITISH STANDARDS
UKOAA Data Exchange Format P5/94 UKOOA P5/94
Pipeline Position Data
Issued by:
United Kingdom Offshore Operators Association
6th Floor East
Portland House
Bressenden Place
London SW1E 5B
UK
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APPENDIX A USBL ACOUSTIC POSITIONING

A.1 GENERAL
An USBL or Super Short Baseline System (SSBL) measures a relative offset to a subsea
target providing an acoustic range and bearing from a transducer mounted on the surface
vessel.
The USBL system shall be interfaced to a calibrated Gyro Compass and Motion Sensor to
allow for the correction of observations for heading, heave, pitch and roll.
• The Motion Sensor shall be mounted as close as possible to the USBL transducer.
• The transducer (either tracking or fixed) shall be rigidly mounted through a gate
valve. An over the side mount may be acceptable with prior Principal approval but
it must be stout and able to withstand the stress due to waves and vessel motions.
• The Mounting within the gate valve should facilitate the raising and lowering of the
transducer pole without the necessity to re-calibrate the system
• In its operational position the transducer shall be clear of the hull, propellers,
thrusters and other possible noise sources.
• Contractor shall maintain a permanent record of transponder codes and operating
frequencies and the co-ordinates of all transponders deployed in the survey area (if
appropriate).
• Offsets between target transponders and key points on the subsea equipment,
vehicle, or tow body that is being positioned shall be carefully measured and
recorded.

A.2 USBL CALIBRATION – GENERAL

The Contractor shall ensure that all standard pre-calibration procedures as detailed below
are carried out prior to the equipment being used. During periods of acquisition, confidence
checks shall be undertaken on the equipment as agreed with Principal Representative.
Any parameters (offsets) contained in erasable programmable read only memory (EPROM)
within the USBL system shall be checked and logged prior to commencement of the
calibration and a hard copy of these delivered to the Principal Representative.
Calibration transponders shall be deployed using suitable moorings and buoyancy collars.
The speed of sound in seawater shall be measured either directly or indirectly to an
accuracy of ± 0.5 m/s. Two (2) independent sound velocity profile (SVP) or CTD probes
shall be used to measure the velocity profile.
The Contractor shall be responsible for the recovery of the transponder and moorings
(when non-degradable moorings are used) on completion of the calibration.
In the event that the transducer head has to be re-aligned or replaced during the survey, a
re-calibration of the USBL system shall be undertaken.

A.3 USBL CALIBRATION PRINCIPLES

Sufficient redundancy of positioning information shall be acquired for the computation of a
mathematical and statistical solution in order to derive the size and sign of each of the
following error sources:
a) Velocity error
b) Range index error
c) Gyro compass error
d) Transducer alignment
e) Pitch error including the transducer vertical misalignment.
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f) Roll error including the transducer vertical misalignment.

g) Transducer mounting misalignment
h) Transducer Offset error

A.4 USBL CALIBRATION PROCEDURE

The following procedure shall be used for USBL calibration unless otherwise agreed by
Principal.
• A transponder shall be deployed clear of all structures and pipelines.
• The vessel shall hold station, maintaining a constant heading, at each of the four
(4) cardinal points, equidistant from the transponder position.
• Distance from transducer shall be between one (1) to a maximum of three (3) times
the water depth.
• Sufficient data of acceptable quality shall be collected at each point. Normally 100
observations shall be obtained at each of the four (4) points.
• The vessel shall take up position and remain stationary over the transponder.
• At least 100 data sets shall be displayed, printed and logged in order to provide a
precise assessment of Z, depth.
• Error check for depth should be observed to verify the acoustic depth value
obtained, using and independent measurement sensor (i.e. pressure sensor).
• All fixes shall be computed and displayed on line in order to verify the systematic
distribution of fixes around the transponder.
• The following data shall be logged and printed for each fix:
a) Time of fix
b) Vessel antenna Northing and Easting
c) Gyro compass reading
d) USBL: X, Y, Z offsets
e) Sensor: heave, pitch and roll
• Calibration values and computations shall be presented to the Principal
Representative on completion of the calibration for approval.
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APPENDIX B GYROCOMPASS

B.1 INTRODUCTION
Both conventional mechanical gyrocompasses and fibre optic Gyro-compasses [Fibre Optic
Gyro (FOG)] have inherent error sources:
• Latitude Error
• Speed Error
• Alignment Error
By quantifying the magnitude and sign of the alignment error and ensuring that the latitude
and speed settings are correct, a gyrocompass can realistically be calibrated to operate
within the manufacture’s specification.
A gyrocompass can be checked statically in a workshop environment and dynamically while
the vessel is at the harbour or at sea. The precision of the check and resulting standard
deviations of both the observations and the results will be dependent on the stability of the
vessel during the check, and the accuracy of the method used. The absolute accuracy of
the check will be dependent on the initial accuracy of the known azimuth used to calculate
the vessels heading, and the technique used to transfer the known baseline azimuth to the
heading of the vessel. Timing of the observations is also crucial, as the heading of the
vessel could change with respect to the known baseline azimuth, between observations.

B.2 BENCH CHECK

Prior to a gyrocompass being mobilized the unit shall be placed against a baseline with a
known azimuth, switched on, set for the correct latitude and speed and allowed to settle in
the workshop. During this operation the data output from the gyrocompass shall be logged
and graphed with respect to time to show that the unit is capable of starting up and settling
without any drifting. Once settled, the gyrocompass shall be rotated through four (4) equally
divided headings and allowed to settle. This will show that the unit is not sticking on any
one heading. The graphs showing the bench tests shall be copied to accompany the unit
for the project. The bench check is not a calibration. When the gyrocompass is installed
on the vessel it shall be calibrated to determine the alignment error due to the installation.

B.3 DYNAMIC DOCKSIDE CALIBRATION

To measure the gyro alignment error the preferred technique is to use a total station set up
over a known point on the dock with a back sight along a known azimuth. Measurements
are made to prisms on the ship aligned with the vessel centre line and the ship’s heading is
then computed and compared to that observed by the gyrocompass.
Alternatively, a GNSS Heading system can be set up on the ship to compute the vessel
heading from real time kinematic or phase comparison techniques and then compared to
the gyro readings.
B.3.1 Total Station Technique
For this technique it is necessary to establish baseline with known azimuth on the dockside.
This can be commonly done using geodetic grade GNSS receivers to determine
coordinates of two (2) points at least 500 meters apart. Alternatively, a solar observation
can be made to reference a stable back sight.
Once the azimuth of the baseline is determined, prisms are set up on the vessel at bow and
stern centred over the vessel centreline. A total station on the dock is used to measure
range and bearing to each prism to allow relative coordinates to be computed for each.
These coordinates are inversed to obtain vessel heading. The total station observations
shall be time tagged and then compared to logged gyro data at the same time.
It is important to minimize vessel movement during this exercise so all slack must be taken
out of the vessel mooring lines. Care must be taken, however, to ensure that a rising or
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falling tide does not endanger the stability of the vessel by allowing the mooring lines to
become too tight.
Equally, it is important to minimize the delay between reading the bow and stern prisms.
Consideration should be given to employing two (2) total stations to allow simultaneous
observation of the prisms.
B.3.2 GNSS Heading Technique
The GNSS is a cost-effective way of conducting gyrocompass checks. However, the GNSS
techniques implemented shall meet or exceed the accuracies required by the Project.
If a suitably accurate GNSS Heading system is available for use, its results shall be time
tagged and logged and then compared to a comparable data set of time tagged gyro
readings.

B.4 DYNAMIC OFFSHORE CALIBRATION

While operating offshore, if the accuracy or calibration of the gyro is questioned two (2)
techniques may be used to check it. Comparisons shall be made against either a GNSS
derived heading or by comparison against another gyrocompass. Other techniques such as
the use of a sextant or visual transits of known benchmarks shall not be used unless
Principal has been consulted.
B.4.1 Comparison with a GNSS Heading System
The GNSS Heading system comparison is relatively straightforward. Time tagged heading
measurements from both the gyro and the GNSS system are logged and compared. The
ship shall be manoeuvred through the four (4) cardinal directions when gathering a
comparison data set.
B.4.2 Comparison with another Gyrocompass
If a second, calibrated gyro is present on board it can be used as comparison reference. If
the second gyro has not been calibrated, then it can only be used as a gross error check.

B.5 GYROCOMPASS OPERATIONS

All gyrocompasses or heading sensors on board shall be utilized to make constant
comparisons of the systems. These checks shall be logged and any indication of drift or
bias shall be brought to the attention of the Principal Representative and investigated.
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APPENDIX C DGNSS HEALTH CHECK

C.1 GENERAL
If requested by Principal, the DGNSS equipment to be used on a project shall be checked
at dockside to confirm it is operating correctly and producing accurate results. To carry out
the static check a total station is set up on the dock on a known point. It is back sighted
along a known azimuth and range and bearing observations are made to the ship’s DGNSS
antenna. Coordinates are computed for the antenna based on the dockside control and are
compared to the DGNSS positions computed on the ship using its normal positioning
techniques.

C.2 DOCKSIDE CONTROL POINT

To carry out the dockside calibration check, a known baseline must be established which
consists of a known coordinate and azimuth. If an existing control point is to be used,
complete records from the original control survey should be available to verify the suitability
of the point.
If a new point is to be established, its coordinates shall be obtained using geodetic grade
GNSS receivers and precise geodetic techniques.
a) Log dual frequency data (L1 & L2) under the following conditions:
i) 15° elevation mask
ii) 15 sec sync time
iii) Minimum of four (4) satellites
b) Logging period shall be no less than 45 minutes consecutive between receivers, this
must be extended as required for baselines exceeding 10 km if tying into local geodetic
control.
c) The dockside baseline must be tied into existing local geodetic control whenever
possible. The quality of the local geodetic control must be noted and stated in the final
report along with the GNSS data sheets. Where local geodetic control is not available,
a suitable volume of data shall be logged to allow co-ordination with the nearest
National Geodetic control or International Terrestrial Reference Frame (ITRF) station.
d) Witness diagrams shall be compiled such that all control may be relocated at a later
date. Therefore all station markers shall be of a durable type wherever possible; once
again type and likely durability/stability shall be stated in the witness diagrams.
e) The parameters used during subsequent processing of the raw GNSS data must be
included in the final report along with the processed results.
f) The azimuth of the baseline shall be determined to an accuracy of better than 0.025°.
This can be achieved by establishing a second GNSS control point at least 500 meters
away, or by observing a careful sunshot.
g) The absolute co-ordinates for a dockside control point shall be determined to an
accuracy of better than ± 0.10m.
h) Geodetic control shall only be processed on the WGS84 spheroid or alternatively ITRF
(International Terrestrial Reference Frame), unless otherwise specifically requested by
Principal.
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C.3 POSITION CHECKS

Once the baseline is established, the general observational procedures are as follows:
a) Use one (1) total station to observe to a prism located directly adjacent to the primary
geodetic antenna on the vessel. The reference object (RO) shall be located at one end
of the established baseline with the total station at the other. Do not observe to a
prism located away from the antenna since that would require use of the vessel
gyrocompass to compute an offset position.
b) A minimum of 30 observations shall be taken to the vessel-mounted prism, with an
interval of 30 seconds or more.
c) The observations shall be time stamped to coincide with the vessel onboard navigation
system.
d) Raw data can be reduced to the appropriate UTM grid (using the WGS84 spheroid) to
aid the data reduction procedure. However, if this is done, the grid azimuth for the
known baseline must be calculated and used.
e) Satellite coverage must be acceptable - a minimum of five (5) SVs visible.
f) Any computer minus observed (C-O) values that may be present in the navigation
software should be disabled.
g) Record make, model, serial number of GNSS receiver and type of processing software
employed.
Geodetic control shall only be processed on the WGS84 spheroid or alternatively ITRF
(International Terrestrial Reference Frame), unless otherwise specifically requested by
Principal.

C.4 REPORTING
a) Summary of results.
b) Procedures adopted and general methodology.
c) Processed baseline data and witness diagrams.
d) All raw recorded data.
e) All processed data
f) All datum transformation information, if used.
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APPENDIX D MEASUREMENT ACCURACY & INSTALLATION TOLERANCE

D.1 INTRODUCTION
In the absence of project specific installation/construction tolerances or measurement
accuracies, provided by Principal, then the following table shows the typical default
requirements (see Tables 1). The final installation or construction tolerances will be
determined during the detailed design phase and therefore, the final survey accuracy
requirements may also change at that time. However, it is expected that the accuracies
shown in the table are sufficient to allow proper planning of survey procedures and
equipment requirements.

Table D1 Summary of Measurement Accuracy Requirements

Measurement Accuracy
Description Installation Tolerance Comment
(95% confidence level)

Flowlines/Pipelines Horizontal: ± 20m Horizontal: ± 2 m Tolerance

& Umbilicals excludes Initiation,
(Shallow water pipeline crossings
depths less than or Termination
200m) areas. (Possible
use of DGNSS
barge positioning
in conjunction with
offset
measurements, as
dictated by project
requirements)

Flowlines/Pipelines Horizontal: ± 20m Horizontal: Absolute Tolerance

& Umbilicals accuracy better than 0.5% excludes Initiation,
(Water depths of the water depth. pipeline crossings
greater than 200m) or Termination
areas.

Flowlines/Pipelines Within the extents of Based on pre-

& Umbilicals existing Mattress. installed mattress
(crossings) Unless otherwise configuration.
specified by Principal, Contractor shall
extent of mattresses provide acoustic
will allow ± 10 m markers prior to
corridor each crossing or
observe crossing
with ROV

Mattress Horizontal: ± 5m Horizontal: ± 3 m Based on the

Placement for proposed
Flowlines/Pipelines infrastructure’s
& Umbilicals angle of approach
crossings & configuration.

Flowline Lateral: ± 3m Horizontal: ± 0.15 m Termination

Termination Structures with
Longitudinal: ± 2m Attitude: ± 0.1°
Structures rigid main lines.
Attitude (wrt true Orientation: ± 0.5° Dictated by
- Flowline Sleds
vertical): ± 1.5° Subsea layout and
-Gaslift Termination jumper design.
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Measurement Accuracy
Description Installation Tolerance Comment
(95% confidence level)

- Flowline Orientation: ± 2°
Termination
Assembly (FTA)

Umbilical Horizontal: ± 5m Horizontal: ± 3 m Termination

Termination Structures with
Attitude (wrt true Attitude: ± 0.1°
Structures flexible main lines.
vertical): ± 2°
Orientation: ± 0.5° Dictated by
- Umbilical
Orientation: ± 5° Subsea layout
Termination
design.
Assembly (UTA)
- Umbilical
Termination Head
(UTH)

Mid-Line Structures Lateral: ± 2m Horizontal: ± 0.15 m Dictated by

Subsea jumper
- Inline Sled Longitudinal: ± 2m
design.

Manifolds and Horizontal: ± 1 m Horizontal: ± 0.15m Dictated by

Manifold Subsea jumper
Attitude (wrt true Attitude: ± 0.1°
Foundations design.
vertical): ± 2°
Orientation: ± 0.5°
Orientation: ± 2°

Steel Catenary Deflection Angle: Attitude: ± 0.1° Dictated by steel

Riser Top Angle ± 0.5° centenary riser
Orientation: ± 0.5°
(SCR) design and
fatigue sensitivity.

Reference point Lateral: ± 2m Horizontal: ± 0.15 m Dictated by SCR

for establishing design and fatigue
Longitudinal: ± 3m
SCR length (ie. sensitivity
transition joint)

Initiation Piles Horizontal: ± 1 m Horizontal: ± 0.15 m Foundation/Suction

Piles set for
Attitude (wrt true Attitude: ± 0.5°
holdback.
vertical): ± 2°
Orientation: ± 1°
Orientation: ± 2°

Deadman Anchor Lateral: ± 5m Horizontal: ± 3 m Plate Anchors or

(DMA) Blocks set for
Longitudinal: ± 15m Orientation: ± 1°
holdback.
Orientation: ± 2°