LAFAYETTE, La. -- One of the biggest topics at a recent industry event held by Lloyd’s Register was Shell’s new requirement for offshore containers. The audience at the event in Lafayette had plenty of questions regarding Shell’s decision to follow global trends and require independent certification of offshore container units.

Shell’s mandate follows the requirements of the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) code for offshore containers. As stated in the IMO’s MSC/Circ. 860, all containers used in offshore environments must be designed, built and tested according to globally recognized standards. Because the United States has signed the IMO’s treaty, this is the “law of the land” in the Gulf of Mexico as well.

COMPLYING WITH THE IMDG AND SHELL

Shell’s requirement is that all offshore containers used to send supplies to drilling rigs or production platforms in use by Shell must be certified by one of four classification societies. Lloyd’s Register is one of those societies. The standards that can be used are EN 12079, DNV 2.7-1, or DNV 2.7-2. All units, new and existing, must be certified by Jan. 1, 2018.

“These companies have a lot of containers in-service, and they’re worried how to get them certified so they can be used by Shell by January,” said Ramon Contreras, LR senior surveyor, Lafayette office. “Many suppliers have been delaying any investment in new containers because of this requirement, but now they’re beginning to understand it more.”

Similar in many aspects, these standards seek the same objectives. Each applies the same design requirements as well as the same material and manufacturing controls. They also require the same prototype testing, production testing, marking, and similar nameplates. It is important to note that inspection and certification to these standards can be conducted by any accredited third-party provider, like LR.

ONE SCHEME MAKES COMPLIANCE SIMPLIFIED

Lloyd’s Register Container Certification Scheme makes it simple to comply with Shell’s requirement. Using the scheme, LR surveyors can inspect any container and if it passes, the LRCCS stamp ensures it meets not only Shell’s standard, but the global regulations for containers. That way, it could be used anywhere in the world.

FOLLOWING THE REGULATIONS IS IMPORTANT TO OFFSHORE SAFETY

Maintaining the integrity of the design and construction of offshore containers is an important safety and compliance requirement. Though the regulations for offshore containers can be difficult to understand, adhering to them is crucial. Seeking the expertise of an independent third-party, like Lloyd’s Register, for container inspection and certification helps remove the guess work, making it easier to keep offshore assets safe and complaint.

For more information, head to www.lr.org/containers, and visit Lloyd's Register at Booth #EH33 during LAGCOE 2017.