General View on the Design Appraisal of Offshore Structures

Certain general aspects of the task of classification societies are briefly discussed from the view-point on the design appraisal of offshore structures in comparison with that for conventional ships. In this discussion, consideration is given to the special characteristic feature of the offshore structures such as their services in restricted area, specific kind of works engaged in, and direct control by national regulations of the concerned governments specifically related to the work site. Based on the design procedures utilizing relevant results of research and development in advanced technology as well as on the quality-controlled fabrication techniques in shipyards, it is suggested that, in the design appraisal of the structures, an emphasis is to be made on each item of particular importance for individual unit rather than simply dealing with the ordinary requirements of the rules. Several fundamental items are chosen for the discussions, including the problems on design conditions and operation manual, stability and mooring, material and strength, equipment, life-saving measures and the maintenance and inspection of the structures.