Demystifying: Essential Key Terms for Offshore Containers

The offshore business can be overwhelming to navigate due to the numerous key terms and concepts that govern this specialized industry. Especially as offshore containers, which range from standardized ISO units to customized skid packages, differ significantly from standard shipping containers. For that reason, this article aims to shed light on the essential key terms related to offshore containers.

CSC:

The Convention for Safe Containers (CSC) is an international standard established by the International Maritime Organization (IMO). Its purpose is to ensure consistent global safety standards for the transportation of shipping containers by sea. Consequently, compliance with CSC regulations ensures that containers meet minimum safety requirements and have valid safety approval plates.

DNV 2.7-1 and DNV 2.7-3:

DNV 2.7-1 and DNV 2.7-3 are international standards set by Det Norske Veritas (DNV) for certifying offshore containers and portable offshore units. Notably, DNV 2.7-1 covers the design, manufacturing, testing, certification, and intermittent inspection of offshore containers. Conversely, DNV 2.7-3 pertains to portable offshore units such as offshore cabins and modules. Adhering to these standards ensures that containers and units meet stringent safety requirements.

EN 12079:

EN 12079 is an international standard developed by the European Committee for Standardization (CEN) for certifying offshore containers. This standard is directly based on the DNV Standard for Certification 2.7-1 and focuses on the design, manufacturing, and testing of offshore containers. Compliance with EN 12079 ensures containers meet the necessary safety criteria in European markets.

IMDG:

The International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code is a set of guidelines established by the International Maritime Organization (IMO). It provides regulations for the safe transportation of dangerous goods by sea. Offshore containers used for transporting hazardous materials must adhere to the IMDG Code to ensure the safety of crew, vessels, and the environment.

IMO MSC/Circ. 860:

IMO MSC/Circ. 860 refers to the Guidelines for offshore container approval issued in the supplement to the IMDG Code by the IMO’s Maritime Safety Committee (MSC). These guidelines provide additional information and instructions for offshore container approval processes to help stakeholders navigate the complex regulations associated with offshore container transportation.

SOLAS:

The Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) is an international maritime treaty first established in 1914, in response to the tragic sinking of the Titanic. SOLAS sets minimum safety standards for ships, including offshore vessels and platforms. Compliance with SOLAS regulations ensures that vessels and offshore structures meet essential safety requirements to protect human life at sea.

Uniteam Reefer, designed in accordance with DNV 2.7-1/ EN 12079, and IMO/MSC Circular 860.

In summary, offshore containers undergo stringent scrutiny to ensure safety and compliance with international standards and regulations. Consequently, by strictly adhering to these standards, Uniteam places utmost importance on safety and contributes to the seamless operations of the global maritime industry.

Sources: International Maritime Organization, Det Norske Veritas (DNV), European Committee for Standardization