DNV - Os-H202

OFFSHORE STANDARD
DNV-OS-H202
Sea transport operations

(VMO Standard - Part 2-2)
OCTOBER 2015
The electronic pdf version of this document found through http://www.dnvgl.com is the officially binding version
DET NORSKE VERITAS AS
FOREWORD
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Det Norske Veritas AS October 2015

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Offshore Standard DNV-OS-H202, October 2015

CHANGES CURRENT Page 3
CHANGES CURRENT
General
This is a new document.
Det Norske Veritas AS, company registration number 945 748 931, has on 27th November 2013 changed its
name to DNV GL AS. For further information, see www.dnvgl.com. Any reference in this document to
Det Norske Veritas AS or DNV shall therefore also be a reference to DNV GL AS.
General
This is a new document in a series of documents replacing the DNV Rules for Planning and Execution of
Marine Operations (1996/2000); this standard replaces Pt.2 Ch.2 and Ch.3. Extensive revisions and/or
amendments have been made, with the following main changes:
As chapters have been merged, the layout is new.
Technical requirements have been aligned with Noble Denton guidelines, i.e. 0030/ND.
FLS (fatigue) requirements for transports are included.
The seafastening requirements have been described in considerably more detail.

Contents Page 4
CONTENTS
CHANGES CURRENT ................................................................................................................... 3
Sec. 1
Introduction......................................................................................................................... 8
1
Sec. 2
General requirements....................................................................................................... 12
1
Sec. 3
Application................................................................................................................................................. 8
1.1
General............................................................................................................................................. 8
1.2
Complementary standards ............................................................................................................... 8
1.3
Conditions and alternative methods................................................................................................. 8
References .................................................................................................................................................. 8
2.1
Numbering and cross references...................................................................................................... 8
2.2
Normative references ....................................................................................................................... 9
2.3
Informative references ..................................................................................................................... 9
Definitions .................................................................................................................................................. 9
3.1
Verbal forms .................................................................................................................................... 9
3.2
Terminology................................................................................................................................... 10
3.3
Abbreviations and symbols............................................................................................................ 10
Planning.................................................................................................................................................... 12
1.1
General .......................................................................................................................................... 12
1.2
Operation period ............................................................................................................................ 12
1.3
Weather restricted transports ......................................................................................................... 12
1.4
Unrestricted transports ................................................................................................................... 12
1.5
Heading controlled transports ........................................................................................................ 12
Documentation......................................................................................................................................... 13
2.1
General........................................................................................................................................... 13
2.2
Design documentation ................................................................................................................... 14
2.3
Equipment, fabrication and vessels................................................................................................ 14
2.4
Operation procedures .................................................................................................................... 14
Operational aspects ................................................................................................................................ 14
3.1
General........................................................................................................................................... 14
3.2
Weather conditions ........................................................................................................................ 15
3.3
Operational restrictions.................................................................................................................. 15
3.4
Ports of shelter ............................................................................................................................... 15
3.5
Air draught ..................................................................................................................................... 15
3.6
Organisation and personnel............................................................................................................ 15
3.7
Inspections and testing................................................................................................................... 16
River and sheltered area transports ..................................................................................................... 16
4.1
Application..................................................................................................................................... 16
4.2
General........................................................................................................................................... 16
4.3
Seafastening ................................................................................................................................... 16
Design requirements ........................................................................................................ 17

1
General ..................................................................................................................................................... 17
1.1
Design basis and principles............................................................................................................ 17
1.2
Environmental conditions .............................................................................................................. 17
1.3
Strength calculations...................................................................................................................... 17
1.4
Certified properties ........................................................................................................................ 17
1.5
Stability afloat................................................................................................................................ 18
Motions and accelerations ...................................................................................................................... 18
2.1
General........................................................................................................................................... 18
2.2
Wind heeling and heave-induced roll ............................................................................................ 18
2.3
Simplified motion criteria for barges............................................................................................. 18
Loads and load effects............................................................................................................................. 20
3.1
General........................................................................................................................................... 20
3.2
Vessel motions and deflections...................................................................................................... 20
3.3
Cargo overhangs, buoyancy and wave slam /green water ............................................................. 20
3.4
Load cases...................................................................................................................................... 21
Fatigue calculations................................................................................................................................. 21
4.1
General........................................................................................................................................... 21
4.2
Fatigue limit state design considerations ....................................................................................... 21
4.3
Calculation methods....................................................................................................................... 22
4.4
Fatigue control ............................................................................................................................... 22

Contents Page 5
Sec. 4
Towing................................................................................................................................ 31
1
Sec. 5
Grillage and seafastening........................................................................................................................ 23

5.1
Application..................................................................................................................................... 23
5.2
Design principles .......................................................................................................................... 23
5.3
Design calculations ........................................................................................................................ 24
5.4
Fatigue and vibrations.................................................................................................................... 26
5.5
Welded seafastening ...................................................................................................................... 26
5.6
Bolted seafastening ........................................................................................................................ 27
5.7
Use of T-bars to support cargo and seafastening .......................................................................... 27
5.8
Securing of pipes............................................................................................................................ 28
5.9
Internal seafastening ...................................................................................................................... 28
5.10 Inspection of seafastening.............................................................................................................. 28
5.11 Cutting/removal of seafastening .................................................................................................... 29
Towing force calculations ....................................................................................................................... 29
6.1
General........................................................................................................................................... 29
6.2
Unrestricted towing........................................................................................................................ 29
6.3
Weather restricted towing .............................................................................................................. 30
6.4
Special towing operations .............................................................................................................. 30
General ..................................................................................................................................................... 31
1.1
Application..................................................................................................................................... 31
1.2
Complementary standards and guidance ...................................................................................... 31
Towing arrangement............................................................................................................................... 31
2.1
General........................................................................................................................................... 31
2.2
Towing configurations .................................................................................................................. 32
2.3
Main towing arrangement .............................................................................................................. 32
2.4
Emergency towing arrangement .................................................................................................... 33
2.5
Multi-barge transports ................................................................................................................... 33
2.6
Towing arrangement design load................................................................................................... 33
2.7
Towlines......................................................................................................................................... 34
2.8
Intermediate pennant and shackles ................................................................................................ 35
2.9
Towing bridle................................................................................................................................. 35
2.10 Fairleads......................................................................................................................................... 36
2.11 Towline connection points............................................................................................................. 36
Towing vessels.......................................................................................................................................... 37
3.1
General........................................................................................................................................... 37
3.2
Criteria for selection of towing vessels.......................................................................................... 37
3.3
Bollard pull .................................................................................................................................... 37
3.4
Towing fleets ................................................................................................................................. 38
3.5
Towing vessel contingency............................................................................................................ 39
3.6
Towline details and spare equipment............................................................................................. 39
3.7
Towing winches ............................................................................................................................. 40
3.8
Equipment for personnel transfer................................................................................................... 40
3.9
Bunkers and other consumables .................................................................................................... 40
3.10 Vessel documentation .................................................................................................................... 41
Towing operations ................................................................................................................................... 41
4.1
General........................................................................................................................................... 41
4.2
Towing criteria............................................................................................................................... 41
4.3
Weather forecast ............................................................................................................................ 42
4.4
Routing, sea-room and navigation ................................................................................................. 42
4.5
Towline control & seabed clearance.............................................................................................. 43
4.6
Towing clearances ......................................................................................................................... 43
4.7
Towing procedures......................................................................................................................... 45
4.8
Mitigating actions and contingency ............................................................................................... 45
4.9
Large tows................................................................................................................................................ 46
5.1
General........................................................................................................................................... 46
5.2
Navigational equipment ................................................................................................................. 46
5.3
Clearances ...................................................................................................................................... 46
5.4
Survey of towing route................................................................................................................... 46
5.5
Monitoring ..................................................................................................................................... 46
Towed objects.................................................................................................................... 47
1
General ..................................................................................................................................................... 47
1.1
Application..................................................................................................................................... 47
1.2
Loads and structural strength ......................................................................................................... 47
1.3
Stability and seaworthiness............................................................................................................ 47
1.4
Manned towed objects ................................................................................................................... 47
1.5
Towing and navigation equipment ................................................................................................ 47

Contents Page 6
Sec. 6
Ship transportation........................................................................................................... 56
1
Sec. 7
1.6
Access ............................................................................................................................................ 47
1.7
Emergency anchoring ................................................................................................................... 47
1.8
Mooring equipment........................................................................................................................ 48
1.9
Ballast and drainage systems ......................................................................................................... 48
1.10 Seafastening ................................................................................................................................... 49
Barges ....................................................................................................................................................... 49
2.1
General........................................................................................................................................... 49
2.2
Stability and towing condition ....................................................................................................... 49
2.3
Anchoring and mooring equipment ............................................................................................... 49
2.4
Barge global strength ..................................................................................................................... 49
2.5
Barge local strength ....................................................................................................................... 49
2.6
Barge documentation ..................................................................................................................... 50
Multi-barges............................................................................................................................................. 50
3.1
Application..................................................................................................................................... 50
3.2
Vessels ........................................................................................................................................... 50
3.3
Ballasting systems.......................................................................................................................... 50
3.4
3.5
Design considerations and analysis ............................................................................................... 50
3.6
Skew loads ..................................................................................................................................... 51
3.7
Barge supports ............................................................................................................................... 51
Ships ......................................................................................................................................................... 51
4.1
General........................................................................................................................................... 51
4.2
Manning ......................................................................................................................................... 51
4.3
Stability, seaworthiness and structural strength............................................................................. 52
4.4
Towing and navigation equipment ................................................................................................ 52
4.5
Securing of rudder and propeller ................................................................................................... 53
4.6
Anchoring and mooring equipment ............................................................................................... 53
4.7
Loose equipment and cargo ........................................................................................................... 53
4.8
Towage of floating production, storage and offload vessels ......................................................... 54
Self-floating objects ................................................................................................................................. 54
5.1
Application..................................................................................................................................... 54
5.2
5.3
Buoyancy ....................................................................................................................................... 54
5.4
Rubber diaphragms ........................................................................................................................ 54
5.5
Structural strength.......................................................................................................................... 55
5.6
Hydrostatic loads ........................................................................................................................... 55
5.7
Other loads ..................................................................................................................................... 55
General ..................................................................................................................................................... 56
1.1
Application..................................................................................................................................... 56
1.2
Planning ......................................................................................................................................... 56
1.3
Documentation............................................................................................................................... 56
Design ....................................................................................................................................................... 56
2.1
General........................................................................................................................................... 56
2.2
Motions, accelerations and loads ................................................................................................... 56
2.3
Structural design ............................................................................................................................ 57
2.4
Seafastening including lashing ...................................................................................................... 57
2.5
Equipment ...................................................................................................................................... 59
Operation ................................................................................................................................................. 59
3.1
Operational aspects ........................................................................................................................ 59
3.2
Transport procedure ....................................................................................................................... 59
3.3
Inspection....................................................................................................................................... 59
Heavy transports............................................................................................................... 60
1
General ..................................................................................................................................................... 60
1.1
Application..................................................................................................................................... 60
1.2
Planning and documentation.......................................................................................................... 60
Heavy transport vessel ............................................................................................................................ 60
2.1
General........................................................................................................................................... 60
2.2
2.3
Documentation heading control.................................................................................................. 60
Design ....................................................................................................................................................... 60
3.1
General........................................................................................................................................... 60
3.2
Motions during transit.................................................................................................................... 60
3.3
Loads and load effects ................................................................................................................... 60
3.4
Structural design ............................................................................................................................ 61

Contents Page 7
3.5
Seafastening and grillage ............................................................................................................... 61
3.6
Cribbing ......................................................................................................................................... 61
Loading and off-loading.......................................................................................................................... 62
4.1
General and application ................................................................................................................. 62
4.2
Cargo supports ............................................................................................................................... 62
4.3
Positioning and guides ................................................................................................................... 63
4.4
Ballasting and stability................................................................................................................... 63
Operational aspects ................................................................................................................................. 63
5.1
General........................................................................................................................................... 63
5.2
Transport procedure ....................................................................................................................... 63
5.3
Float-on and float-off..................................................................................................................... 64
5.4

Sec.1 Introduction Page 8
SECTION 1 INTRODUCTION
1.1 Application
1.1.1 General
1.1.1.1 This standard, DNV-OS-H202 provides requirements, recommendations and guidance for sea
transport operations. Typical operations are towing of barges, vessels and self-floating objects as well as ship
transportation of special cargoes.
Guidance note 1:
Special cargo is defined as cargo that is not considered adequately covered by the ship's standard transport procedures
by any stakeholder.
---e-n-d---of---g-u-i-d-a-n-c-e---n-o-t-e---
Guidance note 2:
Additional requirements and recommendations and positioning of Mobile Offshore Units are given in DNV-OSH203.
1.1.2 Complementary standards

1.1.2.1 DNV offshore standards covering marine operations, i.e. DNV-OS-H101, DNV-OS-H102 and DNVOS-H201 through DNV-OS-H206, are collectively referred to as the VMO Standard.
Guidance note:
The VMO Standard supersedes and replaces DNV - Rules for Planning and Execution of Marine Operations.
1.1.2.2 General recommendations for planning of, loads associated with and design of marine operations are
given in DNV-OS-H101 and DNV-OS-H102.On and offloading of the transported objects (cargoes) are
generally covered in DNV-OS-H201 and DNV-OS-H205. However, see also [7.4] for on/offloading of HTV.
1.1.2.3 Additional guidance regarding the sea transport of decommissioned objects may be found in DNV-RPH102.
1.1.3 Conditions and alternative methods

1.1.3.1 The objectives of this Standard are stated in DNV-OS-H101 Sec.1 A.
1.1.3.2 The general conditions for use of this Standard are stated in DNV-OS-H101 Sec.1 B200.
1.2 References
1.2.1 Numbering and cross references
1.2.1.1 Table 1-1 defines the numbering system used throughout this standard, in comparison with that
adopted in some of the DNV-H series of offshore standards that have been published to date. See Table 1-1.
1.2.1.2 The text in this standard includes references to the documents listed in Table 1-2. If indicated where
the references are given, the referenced text shall be considered as part of this standard.
Table 1-1 Numbering
Level
Sections
Sub-sections
Paragraphs
Items
Numbering
1
1.1
1.1.1
1.1.1.1
Numbering in some published DNV-H standards

Sec. 1, 2, 3
A., B., C..
A 100, A 200, A 300
101, 102.., 201, 202.., 301, 302
1.2.1.3 Requirements herein are based on the document revisions listed in Table 1-2; however, the latest
revision shall normally be applicable, unless otherwise agreed.
Guidance note:
The agreement should be made (normally through contracts) between the parties involved, typically Company,
Contractors and MWS.

1.2.2 Normative references

Table 1-2 Normative references
Reference
DNV-OS-H101
DNV-OS-H102
DNV-OS-H201
DNV-OS-H203
DNV-OS-H204
DNV-OS-H205
DNV-OS-H206
DNVGL-OS-C101
Revision
Oct. 2011
Jan. 2012
Apr. 2012
Feb. 2012
Nov. 2013
Apr. 2014
Sep. 2014
Jul. 2015
Title
Marine Operations, General (VMO Standard Part 1-1)
Marine Operations, Design & Fabrication (VMO Standard Part 1-2)
Load Transfer Operations (VMO Standard Part 2-1)
Transit and Positioning of Offshore Units (VMO Standard Part 2-3)
Offshore Installation Operations (VMO Standard Part 2-4)
Lifting Operations (VMO Standard Part 2-5)
Subsea Operations (VMO Standard Part 2-6)
Design of offshore steel structures, general - LRFD method
1.2.2.1 The documents listed in Table 1-3 include information that, through references in this text, clarify and
indicate acceptable methods of fulfilling the requirements given in this standard.
1.2.2.2 The latest revision of the informative references should normally be used.
1.2.3 Informative references

Table 1-3 Informative references
Reference
DNV-RP-H101
DNV-RP-H102
DNV-RP-H103
DNV-RP-C205
DNV-RP-A203
DNV SfC 2.7-3
DNV Ship Rules
DNV CN 08
0001/ND
0030/ND
EN 1993-8
EN 13411-4
IMO Res. A.714(17)
IMO MSC/Circ. 884
Title
Risk Management in Marine and Subsea Operations
Marine Operations during Removal of Offshore Installations
Modelling and Analysis of Marine Operations
Environmental Conditions and Environmental Loads
Qualification Procedure for New Technology
DNV Standard for Certification No 2.7-3 Portable Offshore Units
DNV Rules for Classification of Ships
DNV Classification Note 8 - Conversion of Ships
GL Noble Denton General Guidelines for Marine Projects 0001/ND
GL Noble Denton Guidelines for Marine Transports 0030/ND
Eurocode 3, Design of steel structures, Part 1-8: Design of joints
Terminations for Steel Wire Ropes, Part 4: Metal and Resin Socketing
IMO Resolution A.714(17) 1991 Code of Safe Practice for Cargo Stowage and Securing
IMO Ref. T1/3.02, MSC/Circ.884 - Guidelines for Safe Ocean Towing
1.3 Definitions
1.3.1 Verbal forms
1.3.1.1 Verbal forms of special importance are defined as indicated below in this standard.
Table 1-4 Verbal forms
Term
shall
should
may
Definition
verbal form used to indicate requirements strictly to be followed in order to conform to the document
verbal form used to indicate that among several possibilities one is recommended as particularly suitable,
without mentioning or excluding others, or that a certain course of action is preferred but not necessarily
required
verbal form used to indicate a course of action permissible within the limits of the document

1.3.2 Terminology
1.3.2.1 Terms of special importance are defined as indicated below in this standard. See also DNV-OS-H101
for general terms.
Table 1-5 Terms
Term
benign weather areas
bollard pull
Definition
sea areas as defined in 0001/ND
certified continuous static towing force applied by tug, i.e. continuous tow line force
The certified bollard pull should be based on testing carried out according to the certifying bodys
(standard) procedure.
certified item
coastal towing
grillage
heavy transport vessel
item with a capacity or property certified by a recognised body

towing in waters less than 12 nautical miles off the coastline
structural load distributing elements installed to avoid excessive local loads
a submersible barge or vessel carrying heavy object(s) on deck
The objects are loaded on/off the carrier in float-on/float-off operations. (Note that the term HLV
[Heavy Lift Vessel] is/was also used for this kind of vessel).
inshore towing
internal seafastening
multi-barge towing
towing in sheltered waters

securing of loose items within the handled object
transfer at sea, using tugs, from one location to another of an object resting on two or more
barges
object
structure/vessel subjected to one or several of the operations defined in this standard
offshore towing
towing in waters more than 12 nautical miles off the coast
seafastening
structural elements providing horizontal and uplift support of an object during sea transport
operations
safe condition
a condition where the object is considered to be exposed to a normal risk of damage or loss
self-floating tow
transfer at sea from one location to another of an object supported by its own buoyancy and
pushed/ pulled by tugs
ship transportation
transfer at sea from one location to another of an object on board a conventional vessel or
supply vessel
unit
the assembled configuration of transport vessel(s) and object(s) to be transported
weather restricted
a transport (or tow) with a specific weather restriction, normally the maximum allowable
transport/tow
significant wave height
weather routed transport/ a transport (or tow) with some (specific) recommendations that are intended to reduce the
tow (weather routing)
risk in the case of deteriorating/bad weather conditions
Note that all transports will, as default, to some extent be weather routed by the captain/ tow master.
1.3.3 Abbreviations and symbols

1.3.3.1 The list below defines symbols used in this standard.
Table 1-6 Abbreviations and symbols
Abbreviation/
symbol
Aexp
ALS
ax
ay
az
B
BF
BP
Cb
CoG
ETA
ETD
FLS
FPSO
FTD
Definition
exposed cross-sectional area in m2
accidental limit state
accelerations in vessel longitudinal direction
accelerations in vessel transverse direction
accelerations in vessel vertical direction
breadth
Beaufort wind scale
static tug bollard pull in tonnes
block coefficient
centre of gravity
estimated time of arrival
estimated time of departure
fatigue limit state
floating production, storage and offload vessel
design load for towing arrangements

Table 1-6 Abbreviations and symbols (Continued)

Abbreviation/
symbol
FTR
g
GM
Hmax
Hs
HTV
L
LAT
LOA
LRFD
Ltowline
MBL
MBLtowline
OPLIM
OPWF
SLS
SWL
T
TR
Tz
ULS
v
Vc
VW
WLL
Z quality
int
Mw
TE
Definition
towline pull required
acceleration of gravity
initial metacentric height
maximum anticipated wave height
significant wave height
heavy transport vessel (most commonly denoted HLV heavy lift vessel earlier)
rule ship length, see DNV Ship Rules, Pt.3 Ch.1 Sec.1 B100. If not known, LPP (length between
forward and aft perpendicular) may be used in the standard acceleration formulas
lowest astronomical tide
tug overall length
load- and resistance factor design
length of towline
certified minimum breaking load
towline MBL
operational limiting criteria, see DNV-OS-H101 Sec.4 B600
forecasted (monitored) operation criteria
serviceability limit state
certified safe working load
draft
operation reference period
mean zero up-crossing period
ultimate limit state
towing speed
current velocity
mean wind velocity
working load limit
steel grade of proven through-thickness properties
interaction efficiency factor
shape factor
material factor for welds
tug efficiency factor

Sec.2 General requirements Page 12
SECTION 2 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

2.1 Planning
2.1.1 General
2.1.1.1 Planning, including the design process, documentation and risk management, for sea transports shall
comply with the requirements and philosophies given in DNV-OS-H101 Sec.2.
Guidance note:
The documentation associated with the above should be commensurate with the operational complexity and
experience of those parties involved in any given operation.
2.1.2 Operation period

2.1.2.1 The planned operation period (TPOP) and the corresponding required operation reference period, TR,
defined in DNV-OS-H101 Sec.4 B, should be thoroughly evaluated at an early stage.
2.1.2.2 The start and end points for a sea transport operation shall be at safe conditions and they should be
clearly defined.
Guidance note:
See DNV-OS-H101 Sec.2 A101 for the definition of a safe condition.
2.1.2.3 A sea transport operation may consist of several sub-operations. This shall be thoroughly considered
in the overall planning of the operation.
Guidance note:
E.g. a sea transport operation could include several transport legs. In addition, it could be required to include on- and/
or offloading (or at least mooring in the receiving port) in the operation from one safe condition to another.
2.1.2.4 The (sub) operation(s) should be defined as either weather restricted or unrestricted, see [2.1.3] and [2.1.4].
2.1.3 Weather restricted transports

2.1.3.1 Weather restricted transport operations may be designed for specified environmental criteria, see
DNV-OS-H101, Sec.4 B500.
2.1.3.2 Weather restricted transports shall seek shelter if the actual situation or weather forecast(s) indicates
that the operational limitations may be exceeded. See [2.3.4].
2.1.3.3 Operation procedures (see [2.2.4]) describing in detail the actions required for different weather
(forecasted) conditions shall be established.
2.1.3.4 It is not recommended to specify heading control in order to reduce the design accelerations for weather
restricted transports. If heading control anyhow is specified, the operations limitations shall duly reflect this.
See also [2.1.5] and especially [2.1.5.5].
2.1.4 Unrestricted transports

2.1.4.1 Unrestricted transport operations are designed for unrestricted environmental conditions, see DNVOS-H101 Sec.4 B800. Note also requirements for tow out given in [4.4.2].
2.1.5 Heading controlled transports

2.1.5.1 Normally, the design weather during transport shall be considered for all directions, see DNV-OSH102, Sec.4 B200. However, some transports may be planned as heading controlled if manoeuvrability and
reliable backup and/or the redundancy of propulsion system(s) can be documented, see [2.1.5.4].
2.1.5.2 The following design conditions apply for a heading controlled transport:
100% of the design weather to be applied for ULS in head seas +/- 30 degrees.
The acceptable weather conditions to be used for ULS in all other directions have to be assessed and the
implied operational restrictions should be thoroughly described in the transport manual.
All sea directions not analysed for the design weather in ULS shall normally be considered as accidental
cases (ALS), but see note 6) to Table 3-1 in DNV-OS-H102. ALS design approach and load factors should
be selected according to DNV-OS-H102 Sec.5 D200.

Regarding FLS see [3.4].

Guidance note:
The above design conditions are normally fulfilled by applying the wave heights indicated in the table below in ULS
design.
Incident angle (Head Seas = 0)
0 +/- 30
+/- (30 - 60)
+/- 60
+/- (60 - 90)
+/- 90
+/- (90 - 120)
+/- 120
+/- (120 - 150)
+/- (150 - 180)
Applicable Hs in ULS, as % of design sea state

100%
Linear interpolation between 100% and 80%
80%
60%
80%
100%
2.1.5.3 Planning for heading control with single tug towages, or voyages by vessels with non-redundant
propulsion systems is not considered feasible. Nor should heading control be applied to transports crossing sea
areas with dominant beam/quartering sea directions or in tropical cyclone sea areas during a storm season.
2.1.5.4 Heading control may be applied for the following sea transports:
a) Manned, multiple tug towages, where after breakdown of any one tug or breakage of any one towline or
towing connection, the remaining tug(s) still comply with the requirements in [4.3.4].
b) Sea transports by self-propelled vessels with redundant propulsion systems.
Guidance note 1:
A vessel with a redundant propulsion system is defined as having, as a minimum:
2 or more independent main engines

2 or more independent fuel supplies
2 or more independent power transmission systems
2 or more independent switchboards
2 or more independent steering systems, or an alternative means of operating a single steering system (but
excluding emergency steering systems that cannot be operated from the bridge)
the ability to maintain any desired heading in all conditions up to and including the design storm, taking account
of the windage of the cargo.
Guidance note 2:
All the documentation required to establish whether or not a vessel can be considered to have a redundant propulsion
system should be made available.
2.1.5.5 The considered operation period (TR) for heading controlled transports shall be based on the longest
transport route that could be required.
Guidance note:
Heading control may/will restrict the feasible sailing courses. Hence, the length of the transport route may increase
considerably. The feasibility of weather restrictions/routing should be documented considering this.
2.1.5.6 Operation procedures (see [2.2.4]) describing in detail the actions required for different weather
(forecasted) conditions, including wave directions, considering the transport route and schedule shall be
established.
2.2 Documentation
2.2.1 General
2.2.1.1 General documentation requirements are given in DNV-OS-H101 Sec.2 B.

2.2.2 Design documentation

2.2.2.1 All the required (see Sec.3) analyses and calculations shall be properly documented by design reports
and design drawings.
2.2.2.2 The design documentation shall clearly state all the assumptions that need to be confirmed before and
during the transport operation.
2.2.2.3 As a minimum adequate design documentation covering the following is normally required:
environmental conditions
vessel motions/accelerations
loads
object (external) seafastening
internal seafastening for heavy objects
strength of the transported object(s)
vessel strength
vessel stability
towing resistance (for towing)
towing equipment (for towing).
2.2.3 Equipment, fabrication and vessels

2.2.3.1 An acceptable standard of equipment, fabrication and vessels shall be documented by:
certificates
test, survey and NDE reports
classification documents.
Guidance note:
See e.g. DNV CN 08 Sec.3 - Mobilization with Temporary Installations and Sec.4 - Mobilisation for Single Voyage.
2.2.3.2 The documentation (copies) should normally be submitted for review as soon as possible. Under any
circumstances, all relevant documentation (originals) shall be available for review before the start of the
transport operation.
Guidance note:
In order to avoid delays, as much documentation as possible should be presented in due time before the operations,
leaving the amount of documentation to be reviewed on site to a minimum.
2.2.4 Operation procedures

2.2.4.1 An operation manual covering all relevant aspects of the planned transport operation shall be prepared.
See DNV-OS-H101 Sec.4 G200.
2.2.4.2 Weather routing actions shall be properly described, see e.g. [2.3.3.2].
2.2.4.3 The operation shall be properly logged. See DNV-OS-H101 Sec.4 G300.
2.2.4.4 During the transports, daily reports shall be submitted to the MWS, and other relevant parties.
2.3 Operational aspects

2.3.1 General
2.3.1.1 The general requirements for planning and executing the operation stipulated in DNV-OS-H101 Sec.4
apply.
Guidance note:
The following sub-sections include some additional requirements and/or emphasis on requirements considered
generally important for transport operations. More detailed operational requirements for each type of sea transport are
included in Sec.4, Sec.6 and Sec.7.
2.3.1.2 The operational risk shall be evaluated and handled in a systematic way. See DNV-OS-H101 Sec.2 C.
The sea transport shall be carried out with due consideration to identified risks and prescribed risk mitigations.

2.3.1.3 The sailing route shall be carefully selected considering the predominant weather directions and
possibility of extreme weather conditions and other risks related to e.g. collision, grounding and piracy.
2.3.1.4 The Master shall engage local pilotage assistance during the towage or voyage, as appropriate.
2.3.2 Weather conditions

2.3.2.1 The operation manual shall clearly define weather limitations and weather forecast requirements.
2.3.2.2 Environmental conditions such as fog, current and tide could be of significant importance to transport
operations and shall be duly considered.
2.3.3 Operational restrictions

2.3.3.1 The operation shall be planned with due consideration to any restrictions imposed by the design
assumptions and/or requirements in the standard. Operational restrictions may be due to:
weather conditions, see [2.3.2]

heading control, see [2.1.5]
air draught, see [2.3.5]
particulars of sailing routes and sea room, see [4.4.4]
clearances, see [4.4.6].
2.3.3.2 Weather restricted transports shall be carried out within an appropriate weather window or they shall
be weather routed as staged transports.
Guidance note:
A staged transport is a tow or transportation in which there is a commitment to seek shelter (or jack up at a standby
location) on receipt of a bad weather forecast. This relies on there being sufficient suitable ports (or sheltered standby
locations) along the route. It can proceed in stages between shelter points, not leaving or passing each shelter point
unless there is a suitable weather forecast for the next stage.
2.3.4 Ports of shelter

2.3.4.1 Before departure, ports of shelter, or sheltered holding areas on or adjacent to the route, with available
safe berths, mooring or holding areas, shall be agreed and all necessary permissions obtained.
2.3.4.2 Where such shelter points are required as part of a weather restricted operation, as described in [6.3],
it shall be possible to enter them safely in worsening weather.
2.3.5 Air draught

2.3.5.1 When passing under bridges and power cables, the overhead clearance shall be calculated allowing a
margin of not less than 1.0m after accounting for the applicable effects in the Guidance note to [4.4.6.5].
Guidance note 1:
Immediately before the passage, the tidal level should, if critical, be confirmed by measurement.
Guidance note 2:
Power cables need a spark gap as well as a physical clearance; the transmission company will have its own criteria
for the minimum allowable clearance. It should also be noted that the catenary of the power cable will change
depending on the load being carried in the cable; the lowest position should be used.
2.3.5.2 The minimum margin on the overhead clearance should be available in the entire width of the sailing
route.
2.3.5.3 Where clearance is limited, then a dimensional survey of the barge/vessel and structure shall take place
just prior to sail away in order to ensure that the required clearance exists.
2.3.5.4 The actual clearance shall be confirmed with all the appropriate authorities, including those responsible
for the obstruction.
2.3.6 Organisation and personnel

2.3.6.1 General requirements relating to the organization, personnel qualifications and communication are
given in DNV-OS-H101 Sec.4 E.
2.3.6.2 The organization chart (and/or description) shall clearly indicate the person responsible for briefing the

tug/ship Master. This is to ensure that he has received all the necessary documentation for the voyage (see
[2.2.4]) and is well aware of any operational restrictions (see [2.3.3]).
2.3.7 Inspections and testing

2.3.7.1 It shall be ensured by inspections and testing that all equipment, systems and vessels are in an adequate
condition. See DNV-OS-H101 Sec.4 F.
2.3.7.2 The erection, testing and removal of seafastening shall be included in the operational planning, see
[3.5].
2.4 River and sheltered area transports

2.4.1 Application
2.4.1.1 River transports refer to transports of components using inland vessels or barges on inland waterways
(e.g. rivers, canals, lakes).
2.4.1.2 Sheltered area transports refer to transports using ships or barges in coastal areas where the maximum
motions due to wind-generated waves are small.
Guidance note:
Generally, the transports should be carried out in an area with very limited (i.e. no swell and Hs 1.0 m) waves. The
use of weather routing may be considered to ensure this.
2.4.2 General
2.4.2.1 All operations and process steps during the transport have to meet national regulations.
2.4.2.2 All requirements given in this Standard for the planning and execution of sea transports are generally
applicable to river and sheltered transports. Due attention shall especially be paid to:
traffic restrictions
sailing restrictions (e.g. due to the air draught, channel depth and width, daylight requirement)
river/canal and tidal current
water level
risk of collision and/or grounding
waves created by other vessels.
2.4.2.3 The transport vessel and/or the towing configuration shall be suitable and have a crew familiar with the
sailing area/route.
2.4.3 Seafastening
2.4.3.1 The seafastening design shall fulfil the general seafastening design requirements given in [3.5].
2.4.3.2 Seafastening design loads shall be based on the environmental characteristics of the actual voyage, in
addition to loads imposed by the elements given in Sec.2.4.2. It has to be proven that components and vessels
could withstand the dynamic forces to be expected during inshore transport.
Guidance note:
Normally, the seafastening required for harbour moves (see [3.5.1.2] referencing to DNV-OS-H201 Sec.3 F400)
could be considered adequate. Seafastening for sea transports that may encounter waves higher than Hs = 0.5 m should
in addition be verified for forces based on calculated accelerations.
2.4.3.3 The effect on the seafastening of unintended impact loads shall be considered. Hence, the seafastening
should normally be able to fulfil its intention after being deformed by an overload and/or adequate additional
securing by friction effects should be documented. See [2.4.3.4] below.
2.4.3.4 Friction may be allowed to contribute under the condition that the entire load path, including the
potential sliding surfaces, shall be demonstrated to be capable of withstanding the loading generated. The
maximum horizontal displacement of the cargo due to a possible collision with a quay, ground or nearby
vessels (in areas of high marine traffic density) shall be assessed and the vertical supports (grillage) shall be
verified (in ALS) for the re-positioned cargo.

Sec.3 Design requirements Page 17
SECTION 3 DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

3.1 General
3.1.1 Design basis and principles
3.1.1.1 The agreed design basis and design brief shall form the basis for the design calculations. See DNV-OSH101 Sec.2 A600.
3.1.1.2 The general design principles to be followed are described in DNV-OS-H102 Sec.2
3.1.2 Environmental conditions

3.1.2.1 All possible environmental conditions, see DNV-OS-H101 Sec.3, shall be evaluated and considered in
the design.
3.1.3 Strength calculations

3.1.3.1 All load-carrying elements without a certified capacity shall be verified by calculations. Typical
elements requiring separate verification are:
strength aspects for towed objects, vessels and cargo not covered by certification /Class
grillage elements
seafastening elements.
3.1.3.2 Structural strength calculations for transported cargo and grillage/seafastening shall be performed
covering wave directions at least every 45 degrees. Computed inertia loads at each wave direction shall cover
all six degrees of freedom (DoF). Phase differences between DoFs may be taken into account.
Guidance note:
It may be found adequate to include only the beam and head sea in the ULS checks, especially if using standard motion
criteria. See the guidance notes in [3.2.3.5] and [6.2.2.6].
3.1.3.3 The global bending/torsion of the transportation barge/vessel shall be included if the cargos support
condition may induce significant deformation loads. See also [3.3.2.2] (and [3.5.3]).
3.1.3.4 It shall be ensured that the gravity component of the roll and pitch motion has been added to the
horizontal (design) accelerations in Cargo CoG.
Guidance note:
The gravity component has been added in the standard criteria in [3.2.3] and [6.2.2.3], but may have been omitted in
the output from (some) motion response analysis.
3.1.3.5 The increased horizontal load due to wind loads and wind induced trim/heel shall be investigated and
included when relevant.
3.1.3.6 Computed motion response transfer functions shall cover a sufficient number of wave periods to
accurately capture the response peaks. Furthermore, the wave period range shall be wide enough with respect
to the energy in the combined wave spectra.
Guidance note:
A wave period range from 0.5*Tz,min to 2.0*Tz,max is usually sufficient. Tz,min and Tz,max are the minimum and
maximum Tz defining the applicable period range, see DNV-OS-H101 Sec.3 C800.
3.1.3.7 Global and local conditions with respect to corrosion shall be considered in the design calculations. See
DNV-OS-H102 Sec.2 B500.
3.1.4 Certified properties

3.1.4.1 Element properties (e.g. strength, capacities, dimensions, weight, etc) may be verified by having
certified properties. The conditions for the certification (or classification) shall be stated. Elements that may be
subject to this verification procedure are:
vessel global strength covered by class
towing brackets
towing equipment

mooring equipment
winches and foundations.
3.1.4.2 Modifications to or the use of certified equipment and classed vessels outside specified limitations,
require acceptance by the certifying/classifying body. Typical examples are:
exceeding allowable global bending moments in restricted waters
ballasting of the vessel to a draft below the load line
significant vessel reinforcements.
3.1.5 Stability afloat

3.1.5.1 The stability and watertight integrity shall fulfil the applicable requirements stated in DNV-OS-H101
Sec.5.
3.2 Motions and accelerations

3.2.1 General
3.2.1.1 The determination of motions shall comply with DNV-OS-H102 Sec.4 B.
3.2.1.2 In general, it is advised to perform motion response calculations based upon a 3D panel model of the
transportation vessel. If a 2D strip theory model is used, the computer program needs to include the proper
treatment of head/stern sea wave excitation loads.
3.2.1.3 Simplified calculations should only be applied for non-critical routine operations or screening
purposes.
Guidance note 1:
For single barge towing, simplified criteria according to [3.2.3] may be used.
For ship transports, simplified criteria according to IMO or DNV Ship Rules may be applied, see [6.2.2].
Guidance note 2:
If the Noble Denton Standard Criteria that are included in 0030/ND are used, the following should be considered:
No reduction in seafastening forces due to friction is allowed using these criteria.
These criteria are based on a safety format differing from the VMO Standard.
3.2.2 Wind heeling and heave-induced roll

3.2.2.1 For vessels with a low GM value, special consideration should be given to the effects of wind heeling.
3.2.2.2 Heave-induced roll motions may occur if there are large changes in the water-plane area with the
draught. In such a situation, a special analysis and/or model tests should be performed to quantify this effect.
3.2.3 Simplified motion criteria for barges

3.2.3.1 Assuming the indicated conditions the accelerations given in Table 3-1, Table 3-2 and Table 3-3 could
normally be applied to a standard North Sea Barge (300 90 20) and bigger barges. Table 3-1 could
normally also be applied to smaller barges, but see [3.2.3.3].
3.2.3.2 For barges smaller than a North Sea Barge, Table 3-2 and Table 3-3 could be assumed to be valid if
the limiting wave heights (6 m and 4 m) are reduced by multiplying by the following factor:
Minimum of L/LNSB and B/BNSB), where:

L is the length of the barge
LNSB is 300 (91.4 m)
B is the breadth of the barge
BNSB is 90 (27.4 m)
Guidance note:
Alternatively, the limiting wave heights (6 m and 4 m) can be used, if the accelerations from Table 3-2 and Table 33 are multiplied by max{LNSB/L, BNSB/B},
3.2.3.3 The simplified motion criteria may be considered to give accelerations on the safe side for all barges
with B > 20 m and L > 50 m. However, for transports that are very sensitive to the acceleration level, it is

recommended to carry out analysis and/or model testing in order to verify the results and also to avoid
unnecessary work/costs.
3.2.3.4 Table 3-1 indicates the acceptable characteristic beam sea (roll case), quartering and head sea (pitch
case) accelerations for unrestricted world-wide barge transports.
3.2.3.5 All three (3) cases in the tables should be considered. In each case, all possible combinations of
directions of the indicated ax, ay and az accelerations shall be taken into account. Wind force should be added.
Guidance note:
It may be found acceptable to omit the quartering case based on engineering judgement. At least the seafastening
forces and maximum vertical support reaction should be evaluated.
Table 3-1 Unrestricted criteria world wide

Acceleration/wind force
ay at waterline
ay increase for each metre (z) above waterline
ax at waterline (wl)
ax incr. each metre (z) above waterline
az at centre (C) barge
az incr. each metre (y, d or x respectively) from C
Wind pressure
Roll Case
0.50 g
0.017 g/m
0
0
0.20 g
0.017 g/m
1.0 kN/m2
Quartering
0.40 g
0.013 g/m
0.15 g
0.005 g/m
0.15 g
0.012 g/m
1.0 kN/m2
Pitch Case
0
0
0.25 g
0.007 g/m
0.10 g
0.007 g/m
1.0 kN/m2
Notes:
see [3.2.3.1], [3.2.3.2] and [3.2.3.3] for limitations and assumptions

x = distance from vessel/barge mid ship
y = distance from vessel/barge centreline
d = distance used for calculating az in quartering sea, d = (y2 + 0.5 * x2)0.5
z = height above waterline.
ay = transverse acceleration parallel with barge deck
ax = longitudinal acceleration parallel with barge deck
az = acceleration normal to the barge deck.
the accelerations include the component for self-weight
see DNV-OS-H102 Sec.4 C300 for load combinations of accelerations and wind force
if the effect of rotational inertia is negligible, ax, ay and az may be calculated in the cog of the cargo. If not,
they should be calculated at carefully selected mass locations on the cargo, in order to include the effect
of rotation.
3.2.3.6 Table 3-2 indicates acceptable characteristic accelerations for unrestricted barge transports in areas/
seasons with a design wave Hs 6 m or for weather restricted transports with OPLIM 6 m. See Table 3-1 for
details/notes.
Table 3-2 Criteria for Hs 6 m
ay at waterline
Wind pressure
Roll Case
0.37 g
0.017 g/m
0
0
0.20 g
0.017 g/m
0.5 kN/m2
Quartering
0.28 g
0.013 g/m
0.12 g
0.004 g/m
0.15 g
0.011 g/m
0.5 kN/m2
Pitch Case
0
0
0.17 g
0.006 g/m
0.10 g
0.006 g/m
0.5 kN/m2
Notes: See notes to Table 3-1.

Guidance note:
The above criteria may normally be considered applicable for unrestricted towing during the summer (June-JulyAugust) in the North Sea.

3.2.3.7 Table 3-2 indicates acceptable characteristic accelerations for unrestricted barge transports in areas/
seasons with a design wave Hs 4 m or for weather restricted transports with OPLIM 4 m. See Table 3-1 for
details/notes.
Table 3-3 Criteria for Hs 4 m
ay at waterline
Wind pressure
Roll Case
0.26 g
0.017 g/m
0
0
0.15 g
0.017 g/m
0.3 kN/m2
Quartering
0.20 g
0.013 g/m
0.08 g
0.003 g/m
0.12 g
0.009 g/m
0.3 kN/m2
Pitch Case
0
0
0.12 g
0.004 g/m
0.08 g
0.004 g/m
0.3 kN/m2
Notes: See notes to Table 3-1.

Guidance note:
The above criteria may normally be considered applicable for restricted towing along the Norwegian coast. It may
also be found applicable for restricted towing from the Norwegian coast to NCS offshore fields.
3.2.3.8 If accelerations corresponding to an OPLIM are used, an appropriate OPWF shall be defined duly
considering the planned tow duration and procedure. See [2.1.2] and DNV-OS-H101.
3.3 Loads and load effects

3.3.1 General
3.3.1.1 Characteristic loads shall be defined according to DNV-OS-H102 Sec.3.
3.3.1.2 It shall be thoroughly evaluated if any other loads not described in DNV-OS-H102 need to be considered.
3.3.1.3 Load analysis shall be carried out according to DNV-OS-H102 Sec.4 A.
3.3.2 Vessel motions and deflections

3.3.2.1 Characteristic loads due to vessel motions and accelerations shall be calculated based on [3.2] as
applicable for the considered transport.
3.3.2.2 Loads caused by vessel hull beam deflections shall be considered. See DNV-OS-H102 Sec.4 A800 and
[3.5] regarding loads in seafastening.
3.3.2.3 Any restrictions in the internal design of the towed/transported object, e.g. w.r.t the internal flexibility
of piping, shall be investigated and accounted for in the operation planning and design.
Guidance note:
On towed objects such as FPSOs, which may have permanently installed modules with piping or other connections
between them, there should be adequate flexibility in the connections to avoid overstress. It should be noted that the
transport wave bending condition may be more severe than the operating condition. In long modules carried as cargo,
the internal pipework should be similarly considered.
3.3.3 Cargo overhangs, buoyancy and wave slam /green water

3.3.3.1 Slamming load and green water requirements are given in DNV-OS-H102 Sec.3 D300 and D400.
3.3.3.2 The exposed parts of a barge transported jacket, particularly those overhanging or close to the bow of
the barge (including buoyancy tanks, pile sleeves and mud mats) shall be designed to withstand wave impact
loads.
3.3.3.3 Deck cargoes vulnerable to excessive loads from green water on deck may need to be protected by
breakwaters or increasing the freeboard.
3.3.3.4 Buoyant cargoes, particularly where the buoyancy contributes to vessel/barge stability, shall be
adequately secured against lift-off unless it can be shown that lift-off will not occur.

3.3.3.5 The effect of waves and the vessel speed shall be included in the seafastening design loads when
calculating forces on immersed parts of transported objects.
3.3.4 Load cases

3.3.4.1 Load cases for transport operations shall be defined according to DNV-OS-H102 Sec.4 C.
3.3.4.2 The sea transport should be represented by a sequence of load cases determined by environmental
loads, wave headings, self-weight, relevant accidental loads and combinations of these.
3.3.4.3 The most critical load cases considering each specific member of the object shall be identified.
3.3.4.4 Critical load cases may be analysed as quasi-static load cases, adding loads due to dynamic motions of
the vessel to the static loads caused by the self-weight of the object. If relevant, skew loads, see e.g. [5.3.6],
should be considered.
3.4 Fatigue calculations

3.4.1 General
3.4.1.1 Fatigue damage during transportation shall be assessed, see DNV-OS-H102 Sec.5 C101.
3.4.1.2 Design factors shall be defined according to DNV-OS-H102 Sec.5 C200.
3.4.2 Fatigue limit state design considerations

3.4.2.1 Typical loads/effects that could contribute to fatigue damage and shall be considered are:
a)
b)
c)
d)
e)
f)
Wave-induced inertia loads on cargo, including grillage and seafastening.

Vortex-induced vibrations (VIV) due to wind loads on long slender elements.
Wave loads on self-floating objects.
Deformation loads on cargo due to the wave-induced bending and torsion of transportation vessel.
Slamming loads on vessels and/or overhanging cargo.
Increased loading and number of cycles due to swinging/vibrating members, e.g. caused by slamming loads
on the transport vessel.
3.4.2.2 The FLS design waves (and wind) shall be carefully selected based on a worst case scenario
regarding weather conditions during the transport.
Guidance note:
For calculating the maximum expected transport fatigue damage, it is recommend to select weather conditions that do
not have more than a 10% probability of being exceeded with regard to cumulative fatigue damage.
3.4.2.3 A reasonable conservative exposure time for FLS calculations shall be selected for calculating the
maximum expected transport fatigue damage.
Guidance note:
The following exposure times should normally be considered:
For transports from one sheltered location to another: 1.5 TPOP
For transports to an offshore (wave exposed) location ample time should be added to account for the maximum
expected waiting time including possible return(s) to the inshore holding location.
3.4.2.4 Fatigue damage shall be calculated for representative sea-vessel relative directions. The spacing
between analysed wave headings should not exceed 45. Symmetry may be considered.
3.4.2.5 The most probable (percentage) exposure time in each sea-vessel relative direction should (could
normally) be selected for calculating the maximum expected transport fatigue damage.

Guidance note:
For transports with sailing routes for which no predominant sea-vessel directions can be expected, the exposure time
and analysed directions may be selected according to the table below. If applicable, symmetry may be considered to
reduce the number of load cases/directions.
Sea direction
Head
Representing range 337.5-22.5
Analysed direction
0
Exposure in %
10
H, Q-Port
22.5-67.5
45
15
Beam-Port T, Q-Port
Tailing
T, Q-Stb.
Beam-Stb.
H, Q-Stb.
67.5-112.5 112.5-157.5 157.5-202.5 202.5-247.5 247.5-292.5 292.5-337.5
90
135
180
225
270
315
15
10
10
10
15
15
H and T denote head seas and tail seas, respectively. Q denotes quartering (45 deg.) seas.
3.4.3 Calculation methods

3.4.3.1 Simplified FLS checks of objects exposed to wave induced inertia loads can be performed based on the
computed ULS stresses, assuming a conservative stress range distribution, see [3.4.2.2].
Guidance note 1:
An adequately conservative stress range distribution may be obtained by a two-parameter Weibull distribution (see
DNVGL-RP-0005 [5.1]) where a Weibull shape parameter h = 2.0 is applied. Use of a lower shape parameter should
be justified.
Guidance note 2:
If control of the fatigue damage during transport is required, it is recommended to base the fatigue calculations on
representative wave height/period blocks with a defined exposure time in each block.
3.4.3.2 For FLS analysis based upon transfer functions for stresses combined with wave spectra and voyage
scatter diagrams, the following should be considered:
a) The applied viscous roll damping shall correspond to typical fatigue waves, or be given for individual cells
in the scatter diagram.
b) Voyage scatter diagrams used to find the maximum transport fatigue shall be selected as indicated in
[3.4.2.2].
3.4.3.3 For heading control transports (see [2.1.5]), directional scatter diagrams used in transportation fatigue
calculations may be truncated so that no sea states higher than the reduced design sea states occur for the beam
sea and quartering sea conditions.
Guidance note:
In FLS calculations, heading control may be applied/assumed based on a risk evaluation, including for vessels that do
not fulfil (all) the requirements in [2.1.5.3] and [2.1.5.4]. Possible increased exposure time should be considered, see
[2.1.5.5].
3.4.3.4 A long-term scatter diagram for the voyage will give the expected mean value of the accumulated
fatigue damage. This could with care be used to evaluate the probable damage to be added to in-place fatigue,
but this approach should normally not be used if the transport fatigue damage alone may be critical.
Guidance note:
If the above approach is used, it is necessary to maintain control of the fatigue damage, see [3.4.4.1], and mitigating
actions [3.4.4.2]) to avoid exceeding the applied fatigue stress range should be in place.
3.4.3.5 FLS calculations need to be based on the actual (linear elastic) stress (range) distribution. Hence, the
effect of friction and restraint forces (vessel deflection) on the stresses shall be adequately calculated. See
[3.5.2.9].
3.4.4 Fatigue control

3.4.4.1 For fatigue critical transports, it is recommended to maintain control of the (anticipated) fatigue
damage during the transport. This is especially important if the assumed stress range distribution could be nonconservative.

Guidance note:
Fatigue damage could be controlled by regular inspections and/or by verifying that the actual fatigue stress range is
less critical than the stress range applied in the calculations. The stress range could be controlled by setting up systems
that compare the actual to the applied:
exposure time
wave scatter diagram considering relative vessel/sea directions
vessel motions, e.g. calculated vs MRU readings
member loads/stresses.
3.4.4.2 Whenever relevant, mitigation actions to avoid excessive transport fatigue shall be defined.
Guidance note:
Mitigation actions could be heading control and/or weather routing. Regular inspections combined with repair
possibilities could/should also be considered.
3.5 Grillage and seafastening

3.5.1 Application
3.5.1.1 The transported object is normally supported and secured to the vessel by seafastening and grillage
elements. This sub-section includes general requirements for such securing systems.
Guidance note:
Welded steel seafastening is preferred, but for smaller cargo units (typically of less than 100 tonnes) chain, wire rope
or webbing lashings with suitable tensioning devices may be acceptable. Wire rope or webbing (fibre rope) lashing is
not recommended for unmanned transports, see [6.2.4.6].
3.5.1.2 For minimum seafastening and grillage for harbour moves, see DNV-OS-H201 Sec.3 F400 and [2.4].
3.5.1.3 For seafastening by lashing, see additional requirements in [6.2.4].
3.5.1.4 For special considerations regarding wood cribbing, see [7.3.6].
3.5.2 Design principles

3.5.2.1 The grillage elements, including shimming plates, shall be used to distribute a concentrated deck load
to a sufficient number of load-carrying elements.
3.5.2.2 Seafastening shall be used to secure the transported object from rotations (e.g. overturning) and
translations in all directions.
3.5.2.3 The seafastening and grillage design shall duly reflect the structural strength limitations of both the
object and transport vessel.
Guidance note:
The effect of global loads on local strength should be considered. E.g. a buckling check of vessel-stiffened panels for
support loads from cargo should include the stresses caused by hull bending moments and shear forces.
3.5.2.4 Grillage and seafastening shall be designed (and erected) taking into account all the physical
limitations implied by the load transfer procedures/methods both to and from the transport vessel(s).
Guidance note:
Typical physical limitations could be related to:
available heights
strict tolerances, etc. imposing requirements for the erection/welding sequence, see also [3.5.2.9]
loadout trailer layout
needed space for (operation of) loadout systems, e.g. pumps, hoses, pull/push units
set down tolerances and shimming requirements
cutting/handling offshore
securing of object before lift, see [3.5.2.6]

possible need to set down the object again and re-instate seafastening offshore, see [3.5.2.10] and [3.5.2.11].
3.5.2.5 The design calculations shall include any positioning tolerances for the transported object on the
grillage, including, if applicable, the effect of vessel hull beam deflections.
Guidance note:
Positioning tolerances should be included in the load-out procedure, see DNV-OS-H201 Sec.3 F400.
3.5.2.6 The seafastening design for offshore or inshore installation operations shall allow for easy release and
provide adequate support and horizontal restraints until the object can be lifted clear of the vessel, or launched
as applicable.
Guidance note:
A procedure is required, see [3.5.11].
3.5.2.7 Elements providing horizontal and/or vertical support after the cutting/removal of the seafastening
shall be verified for the forces caused by the characteristic environmental conditions applicable for the
installation operation.
3.5.2.8 Wave entry (slamming) and exit loads must be considered for overhang cargo in the seafastening
design. See also [7.3.6.8].
3.5.2.9 Vessel global deflection due to both waves and the redistribution of ballast may impose significant
loads on grillage elements and seafastening. Both additional horizontal and vertical loads shall be considered,
see [3.5.3.7] and [3.5.3.9]. See also [3.3.2].
Guidance note:
In order to reduce the effects as much as possible, it is recommended to carry out seafastening welding with the vessel
ballasted to the transportation condition, or mimic this condition as close as draught limitations permit. Set down that
includes shimming at the supports should also be carried out with the transport vessel in a condition that at least
mimics the transport condition.
3.5.2.10 For special seafastening precautions after back loading offshore, see DNV-RP-H102.
3.5.2.11 If the reinstatement of the transport seafastening may be required offshore, this should be taken into
account in the design and the cutting/release procedure.
3.5.3 Design calculations

3.5.3.1 The grillage and seafastening strength shall be verified according to DNV-OS-H102 sections 5 and 6
for applicable load cases defined according to [3.3].
3.5.3.2 The (assumed) force distribution in the seafastening and grillage shall correspond to the reaction forces
considered in verifications of the strength of the vessel and transported object.
3.5.3.3 Possible uplift due to the overturning of the object and/or relative deflections shall be prevented by
seafastening whenever required. See also [3.5.3.10].
Guidance note:
Uplift seafastening is always required if the object overturning moment is greater than the object restoring moment in
the worst applicable ULS load combination. Also, if the first uplift represents an ULS, an additional safety factor
corresponding to a material factor should be applied. This could be done by applying a load factor of 0.85 on G
loads in the uplift load case(s). The need for prohibiting calculated local uplift should be evaluated in each case. If
not prohibited the effect of gaps and the redistribution of reaction loads should be taken into account.
3.5.3.4 Friction forces on the cargo supports may be considered as part of the seafastening. This is conditional
until the applied friction effects have been properly documented, see DNV-OS-H102, Sec.4 A600, and a
minimum seafastening has been installed, see [7.3.5.4] generally and [3.5.1.2] for harbour moves.
Guidance note:
The following maximum design friction coefficients for calculating of favourable friction forces may/should normally
be considered:
Steel to steel, wet: 0.0.
Steel to steel (wet and dry) if vibrations (see [3.5.4.2]) may occur: 0.0.

Steel to steel dry: 0.1.

Steel to wet timber: 0.2.
Steel to dry timber or rubber (wet or dry): 0.3.
Timber to timber: 0.4.
It is assumed that the friction surfaces are free from oil or other lubricating fluids.
3.5.3.5 Any uncertainty about the in load distribution between (seafastening) members and friction forces shall
be taken properly into account.
Guidance note:
The force/load distribution between friction supports and seafastening may be calculated (assessed) by comparing the
deflection needed to mobilize friction with seafastening stiffness. If this is not done, the following precautions should
be implemented:
Seafastening members should be designed to tolerate possible overloading, see [3.5.3.7].
In FLS, friction should not be used to reduce the seafastening loads in any sea state up to that which results in a
seafastening load without friction equal to the ULS characteristic load with friction.
3.5.3.6 Restraint loads due to vessel deflections and inertia loads may be combined as given in DNV-OS-H102
Sec.4 C400.
Guidance note:
The global moments to be taken into account when calculating global deflections do not need to be greater than the
wave bending moments calculated according to DNV Ship Rules.
For barges, the hogging and sagging moments could be calculated by quasi static methods taking into consideration
the varying buoyancy force for a wave of length Lw equal to the barge length and height of 0.61 Lw0.5 metres.
3.5.3.7 The magnitude of restraint loads, especially if caused (entirely or partly) by friction effects, could be
difficult to calculate accurately. Hence, the following precautions should be taken:
Avoid if possible designs/layouts that cause restraint forces.
Minimize restraint forces as a result of ballasting to transport condition, see Guidance note to [3.5.2.9].
The end connection of seafastening elements with significant restraint forces should be made stronger than
the element itself.
A thorough evaluation of the worst case distribution of restraint forces between seafastening elements
should be carried out. Reasonably conservative assumptions regarding force distributions should be
considered in FLS calculations. See [3.4.2.1] d).
3.5.3.8 Horizontal restraint loads that may occur for statically undetermined seafastening arrangements shall
be considered.
Guidance note 1:
Horizontal restraints may typically occur for longitudinal (pitch) seafastening arrangements with fixed stoppers at
both object ends. It is generally recommended to avoid, as far as possible, horizontal restraint loads by having a welldesigned seafastening lay-out. It is normally recommended to position pitch stoppers at only one transverse crosssection along the cargo, preferable as close as practical to the CoG of the cargo.
Restraint loads may normally be ignored for transverse (roll) stopper arrangements if the stoppers are arranged on
both sides of the module and each stopper supports load in one direction only. If the stoppers support loads in both
directions, the effect of restraints (due to torsional vessel deflection and bending about longitudinal and vertical axes)
Guidance note 2:
In order to obtain a statically determined system, seafastening and grillages are sometimes arranged with sliding
surfaces. If sliding surfaces are used, any effects caused by the sliding should be considered, i.e. possible clashes,
fixation of low-friction pads, etc.
3.5.3.9 Restraint loads caused by relative vertical displacements of supports due to vessel hull beam bending
and vessel torsion deflection shall be taken into account.

Guidance note 1:
Vertical restraint effects should normally be considered for vessel transports of objects with three pairs/rows or more
of supports in the vessel's longitudinal direction.
Guidance note 2:
For objects supported on four (or more) supports, it may be required to consider restraint effects due to torsion
deflection of the hull beam. The following guidance applies:
The torsional moment may be calculated according the DNV Ship Rules Pt.3 Ch.1 Sec.5 B206.
Torsional deflection does not normally need to be taken into account for objects on ships without large deck
openings (i.e. a total width of hatch openings in one transverse section exceeding 65%). Nevertheless, for torsion
stiff objects with a greater area between outer supports than 5 B2 (vessel breadth), it is recommended to consider
the effect of hull beam torsion for all types of vessels.
3.5.3.10 Vertical restraint loads that may typically occur in tension details (uplift stoppers, connections to
barge decks) should be especially considered.
3.5.4 Fatigue and vibrations

3.5.4.1 Seafastening should be designed taking fatigue into consideration, see [3.4].
3.5.4.2 The effect of vibrations due to wave entry (slamming) loads on the vessel hull and/or on overhanging
cargo shall be assessed. Typical effects could be:
Reduction of efficient friction, see [3.5.3.4].
Seafastening is needed to prevent swinging/vibration of slender members/equipment/pipes.
Unintended unscrewing of nuts/bolts.
3.5.5 Welded seafastening

3.5.5.1 General requirements for the fabrication of welded seafastening are given in DNV-OS-H102 Sec.6
B100 and B200.
3.5.5.2 Weld capacity should be calculated according to DNVGL-OS-C101 Ch.2 Sec.8. EN 1993-1-8 (Eurocode
3) may be used. Material factors according to [3.5.5.3] below shall be used, also if applying EN 1993-1-8.
Guidance note:
For check of vessel welds the following should be noted:
a) Class acceptance for these welds may be required, especially for new/reinforced welds.
b) All loads (force components) normal to the deck plate should generally be considered transferred to the under
deck welds. However, with only compression force, i.e. no tension force in any load combination, this force
component may be assumed to be transferred through direct contact between the deck plate and the web frames/
bulkheads, and the weld may be checked for shear stress only, see item f) below. If the force varies between
compression and tension, the weld should be able to transfer also the compression force in order to ensure intact
welds, unless the capacity of the seafastening system is documented in ALS with the considered connection
assumed broken.
c) All loads (force components) parallel to the deck plate can be disregarded, see however item f) below.
d) The dispersion angle through the deck plate should be taken as maximum 45 degrees if a greater dispersion cannot
be justified.
e) Size reduction due to possible corrosion should be considered. If not otherwise documented the size should be as
shown on the drawing subtracted the Class corrosion allowance.
f) Note that shear stress in stiffener/girder welds due to local bending/shear in these needs to be included in the
equivalent stress.
3.5.5.3 It is recommended that design of seafastening field welds take into account a material factor to account
for unfavourable deviations and larger uncertainty in the resistance of weld material from characteristic values.
The following minimum material factors, Mw apply:
For welds made at fabrication site: Mw = 1.3
For welds made on board the transportation vessel: Mw = 1.5

Guidance note:
If good welding conditions (see DNV-OS-H102 Sec.6 B200) and weld fit-up (e.g. control of correct/no gaps to deck
plate) on board the vessel are ensured by procedures and well panned inspection Mw = 1.3 may be found adequate.
3.5.5.4 The distribution of forces in the seafastening welds should normally be calculated on the assumption
of linear elastic behavior.
Guidance note 1:
Calculations based on plastic behaviour may be found acceptable, but this will require increase attention to, and
possibly more detailed documentation of, FLS and uncertainties in load distribution in the seafastening. See also
[3.5.5.6] and [3.5.5.7].
Guidance note 2:
Residual stresses and stresses not participating in the transfer of load need not be included when checking the
resistance of a weld. This applies specifically to the normal stress parallel to the axis of a weld.
3.5.5.5 Welded connections shall be designed to have adequate deformation capacity.

3.5.5.6 In joints where plastic hinges may form, the welds shall be designed to provide at least the same design
resistance as the weakest of the connected parts.
3.5.5.7 In other joints where deformation capacity for joint rotation is required due to the possibility of
excessive straining, the welds require sufficient strength not to rupture before general yielding in the adjacent
parent material.
3.5.5.8 Connections to the deck of a barge or vessel should be carefully considered. It should not be assumed,
without inspection or drawings, that underdeck connections between deck plating and stiffeners or bulkheads
are adequate. See also [3.5.10.3].
Guidance note:
Welds between vessel deck plates and under deck stiffeners/bulkheads are normally small and may limit the capacity.
3.5.5.9 Any restrictions regarding welding to the object (or transport vessel) shall be taken into account.
3.5.6 Bolted seafastening

3.5.6.1 Bolted connections may be used in seafastening. The capacity of a bolt (group) connection shall be
calculated based upon relevant recognized steel standard(s).
Guidance note:
See e.g. DNVGL-OS-C101 for relevant requirements and guidance. Additional practical guidance found in 0001/ND
Appendix B should also be considered.
3.5.6.2 Only slip-resistant bolt connections are allowed as seafastening.

3.5.6.3 Adequate material quality of the bolts shall be documented.
3.5.6.4 The bolts shall be installed and tensioned according to a documented procedure.
Guidance note:
Note that it could be difficult to ensure/document a proper procedure due to seafastening conditions/time restrictions.
3.5.6.5 Proper arrangements/procedures for releasing bolted seafastening connections offshore shall be
provided. See also [3.5.2.7].
3.5.7 Use of T-bars to support cargo and seafastening

3.5.7.1 The use of T-bars to support cargo is acceptable provided the T-bar scantlings and welding have been
documented by Class (i.e. with respect to arrangement, material certification and scantlings) and properly
surveyed.

Guidance note:
T-bars are T-shaped steel profiles welded onto the vessel deck in order to secure wooden deck boards. T-bars that
have not been fully documented and surveyed by the classification society should be documented by calculations and
a survey confirming the assumed design condition. Special attention should be paid to material quality and welding
inspection (NDT) documentation for T-bars subject to tension and/or transverse loading. See also [3.5.7.2] below.
3.5.7.2 Design considerations when using T-bars shall include:

special attention to the material quality and condition if transferring uplift forces, see also [3.5.10.3]
the limited ability to transfer any loads in the transverse direction of the T-bar
the limited capacity of the T-bars unless they are directly aligned with the under-deck structure.
3.5.8 Securing of pipes

3.5.8.1 Generally, pipes should be secured during sea transport following the seafastening principles described
in this sub-section ([3.5]). Adequate pipe seafastening will normally be obtained by following the guidance in
0030/ND, section 9.7.
3.5.9 Internal seafastening

3.5.9.1 All loose items shall be properly secured and/or stowed. Items that could be damaged by water shall
be adequately protected.
3.5.9.2 Maximum possible accelerations/forces shall be taken into account.
Guidance note:
The internal seafastening requirement should reflect that the acceleration in the top of the transported object may be
considerably higher than the CoG accelerations.
3.5.9.3 The securing of internal items weighing more than 5 tonnes shall be verified by calculations.
3.5.9.4 It should be ensured that internal seafastening using lashing, clamping devices, etc, is adequately
installed/tensioned to prevent the secured item from moving in any direction during the entire transport.
Guidance note:
See also as found applicable, section [6.2.4] for further guidance.
3.5.9.5 Dunnage applied as seafastening (and load-spreading) shall be properly installed and secured.
3.5.10 Inspection of seafastening

3.5.10.1 All seafastening shall be inspected before departure to ensure that design assumptions are fulfilled
and that proper workmanship has been used.
Guidance note:
Typical items that should be thoroughly inspected in addition to the design according to drawings/calculations could be:
internal seafastening
that all gaps are properly shimmed
securing of (e.g. by tack welding) loose supporting elements (shim plates, wedges, woodblocks/dunnage, etc)
lashings properly installed, see [6.2.4.6]
bolted connections are properly tensioned and secured as specified by the designer.
3.5.10.2 See DNV-OS-H102, Sec.6 B300, for seafastening weld inspection requirements.
3.5.10.3 Ultrasonic lamination testing of deck plating should be carried out if the imposed load results in the
tensile stress normal to the plate exceeding 100 MPa, unless the steel is of Z quality. For single critical
seafastening elements, it is recommended to carry out lamination testing even if the stress is below 100 MPa.
Guidance note:
Higher tensile stresses than 100 MPa caused by e.g. a local moment on seafastening brackets could be accepted in
limited areas without lamination testing. The tensile stress should be calculated in a section between the deck plate
and the weld (i.e. not in the critical weld section). If the under deck weld is smaller, this weld should be used as a
reference, see also Guidance note to [3.5.5.8].

3.5.11 Cutting/removal of seafastening

3.5.11.1 The cutting/removal of seafastening shall, if found applicable, be described in a procedure. A
procedure shall be created if there are any restrictions on cutting/removal, see [3.5.2.6].
Guidance note:
The requirements stipulated in DNV-OS-H204 Sec.3 for the removal of jacket seafastenings may also be relevant for
other objects and should be considered.
3.5.11.2 It should be ensured that adequate equipment is available for seafastening removal according to plan.
3.5.11.3 Physical markings on the seafastening should be made to facilitate correct cutting.
3.6 Towing force calculations

3.6.1 General
3.6.1.1 The minimum required towline pulling force, FTR, shall be calculated based on the towing route and
procedures. The calculations shall, as applicable, document the required towing force for:
Holding in open sea, see [3.6.2.1] (and [3.6.3.2]).
Manoeuvring in narrow waters, see [3.6.2.2] (and [3.6.3.2]).
Adequate speed, see [3.6.3.4].
3.6.1.2 The FTR (towline pull required) calculations shall include the wind, wave-drift and current (i.e. relative
speed between towed object and water) forces.
Guidance note:
Further guidance may be found in DNV-RP-H103, Sec.7.
3.6.1.3 The FTR should be calculated for all relevant combinations of wind, wave and current directions
relative to the towed object.
Guidance note:
Allowances for the yaw (normally minimum +/- 30 degrees) of a single tug towed object should be made. See also
[4.3.4] regarding multiple tug towing.
3.6.1.4 The FTR is calculated as an SLS loadcase, i.e. without load factors. Consequently, it is recommended
that conservative assumptions are applied in the calculations.
3.6.1.5 The applied wind speeds shall include an adjustment for height, see DNV-OS-H101 Sec.3 B400.
3.6.2 Unrestricted towing

3.6.2.1 The FTR for unrestricted open sea towing shall be calculated for the following conditions acting
simultaneously:
sustained wind velocity, Vw = 20 [m/s] (10 m above sea level)
head current velocity, Vc = 0.5 [m/s]
significant wave height, Hs = 5 [m].
Guidance note:
See [3.6.4.2] for towing in benign weather areas.
3.6.2.2 The FTR for unrestricted coastal towing and towing in narrow waters shall be calculated for the
following conditions acting simultaneously:
ten (10) minutes of sustained wind velocity with a 10-year return period (seasonal is normally acceptable,
see DNV-OS-H101 Sec.3 A500)
a one-year return period head current + 1 [m/s] vessel speed over ground
a significant wave height according to DNV-OS-H101 Sec.3 C unrestricted operations.

Guidance note 1:
Note that unrestricted towing in coastal and narrow areas with no wave sheltering is not accepted. See [4.4.2] and
[4.4.4] for applicable requirements.
Guidance note 2:
For towing of large objects by a towing fleet the additional current speed (1 m/s) representing the forward speed (i.e.
additional safety) could normally be reduced to 0.5m/s.
Guidance note 3:
The above criteria are based on the towing force being calculated as an SLS loadcase, see [3.6.1.4]. If the force
calculation is based on less conservative conditions, ULS load factors should normally be applied.
3.6.3 Weather restricted towing

3.6.3.1 See [2.1.3] for general weather restricted towing operations requirements.
3.6.3.2 For weather restricted open sea towing, the FTR shall be assumed to be equal to the maximum towing
force calculated according to [3.6.3.3] or [3.6.3.4].
3.6.3.3 In order to document that the tow will maintain forward speed under all possible weather conditions,
the towing force shall be calculated for the following minimum conditions acting simultaneously:
ten minutes of sustained wind velocity of 1.2 times the OPLIM wind speed,
a one year return period current + 0.5 [m/s], and
the OPLIM significant wave height, OPLIM < 5 m.
3.6.3.4 In order to render probable that the tow can be carried out within TPOP the towing force shall be
calculated for the following minimum conditions acting simultaneously:
ten minutes of sustained wind velocity of the OPWF wind speed,
a one year return period current + the required forward speed (to obtain TPOP), and
the OPWF significant wave height.
Guidance note:
If the speed reduction due to current is considered moderate/insignificant and the towing speed in calm
(i.e. Hs = 0 and Vw = 0) weather is documented, the towing speed may be estimated to be the calm weather speed
multiplied by F = 1 (Hm/5)2. Hm = 80% of the OPWF significant wave height.
3.6.4 Special towing operations

3.6.4.1 For 24-hour moves of jack-ups, the following reduced criteria, acting simultaneously, may be used to
calculate the FTR:
3.0 metres significant seastate,
15 metres/second wind, and
0.5 metres/second current, or the maximum predicted surface current if greater.
3.6.4.2 For benign weather areas reduced criteria for calculating the FTR may be found adequate based on the
actual tow route and season. Generally, these should not be reduced below:
2.0 metres significant seastate, and
15 metres/second wind, and
0.5 metres/second current, or the maximum predicted surface current if greater.

Sec.4 Towing Page 31
SECTION 4 TOWING
4.1 General
4.1.1 Application
4.1.1.1 This section includes requirements for the towing arrangement, vessels, and operational aspects.
4.1.1.2 General requirements and design calculations for towing are covered in Sec.2 and Sec.3.
4.1.1.3 The requirements for various towed objects are given in Sec.5.
4.1.2 Complementary standards and guidance

4.1.2.1 For the towing of submerged objects, additional requirements and guidance are given in DNV-OSH206 and DNV-RP-H103.
4.1.2.2 Reference is made to 0030/ND for special considerations regarding towage in ice-covered waters and
the Caspian Sea.
4.2 Towing arrangement

4.2.1 General
4.2.1.1 The towing equipment and tug(s) shall be arranged so that proper control over the towed object is
ensured.
4.2.1.2 A proper emergency towing arrangement independent of the main towing arrangement shall be
provided. See [4.2.4]
4.2.1.3 Systems and equipment shall be designed, fabricated, installed, and tested according to DNV-OSH101, Sec.6 A. Regarding testing, see also [4.4.9].
4.2.1.4 End connections of all wire ropes in the towing arrangements should preferably be spelter sockets.
Pressed connections fitted with thimbles may be used. Spliced connections shall not be used.
4.2.1.5 End connections shall be in accordance with a recognised code and carried out by qualified personnel.
Guidance note:
EN 13411-4 is an applicable code for end socketing.
4.2.1.6 The end link of towing chains shall preferably be a special enlarged link, but a normal link may be
acceptable. An end link using a normal link with the stud removed is not acceptable.
4.2.1.7 All parts of the towing arrangement should/could normally be designed based on the required towline
strength (FTD, see [4.2.6]) for the towing vessel(s) as described in [4.2.7] through [4.2.11]. However, if failure
of any part of the towing arrangement described in[4.2.8] through [4.2.11] is considered significantly more
critical than a main towline failure, the strength calculation for that part should be based on the actual MBL of
the towline.
Guidance note:
Increased criticality could be due to:
The part needs also to be considered as part of the emergency towing arrangement.
The failed part may hamper/delay any (part of) planned emergency towing.
See [4.2.11.4].

4.2.2 Towing configurations

4.2.2.1 This section covers towages with towing configurations as indicated in Table 4-1.
Table 4-1 Towing configurations
Tugs
Objects
No.
Position
No.
Position
1
2 or more
2
3 or more
1
1
1
NA
Parallel
Series
Series
NA
NA
NA
1
1
1
1
2
3 or more
2 or more
NA
NA
NA
NA
Parallel
Parallel
Series
Tow called
(see notes)
Normal
Parallel
Serial
Double
Tandem
Comments (ref.)
See [4.2.2.2], [4.2.2.3]

No
See [4.2.2.2], [4.2.2.4]
No
See [4.2.2.2], [4.2.2.5]
Notes Definitions:
Normal tow: One tug towing one object.
Parallel tow: Two or more tugs in parallel. Each tug is connected by its own towline to the same towed object.
Double tow: Two towed objects each connected to the same tug with separate towlines. One of the towlines is of
sufficient length to pass well below the first towed object.
Tandem tow: Two towed objects in series behind one tug, i.e. the second object is connected to the stern of the first object.
Serial tow:
Two tugs in series. The towed object is connected to the second tug and this tug is connected to the leading tug.
4.2.2.2 Other towing configurations than normal and parallel may only be accepted based on a risk assessment
of each case considering the actual tow arrangement, towed objects, route and season.
4.2.2.3 A serial tow may only be accepted if the lead tug is significantly smaller than the second tug. Also, the
capacity of the second tug's towing arrangement must accommodate the combined bollard pull of the two tugs.
More than two tugs in series are not accepted.
Guidance note:
The lead tug should have BP less than 50% of the second tug.
4.2.2.4 A double tow may only be accepted for weather restricted tows with adequate operational precautions.
The two towlines must be on separate winch drums and operated independently.
Guidance note:
Both towed objects should have an emergency towing arrangement as indicated in [4.2.4] and an operation procedure
showing how to reconnect to one object while controlling the other object should be available.
4.2.2.5 A tandem tow is not acceptable for ocean towing operations, and may only be accepted for weather
restricted tows of short duration or in ice conditions where the towlines can be kept short to be clear of the
water. More than two objects in series are normally not allowed.
4.2.3 Main towing arrangement

4.2.3.1 The main towing arrangement for a single tug towage should normally be from the forward end of the
towed vessel (object) via a suitable bridle and connected to the tugs towline by a triangular (delta) plate. See
[4.2.9].
4.2.3.2 Based on a proper risk assessment it may in some cases be found acceptable to tow the vessel (object)
by the stern.
Guidance note:
The objects found beneficial for towing by stern could include:
a) Part-built or damaged ships or any structure where the bow sections could be vulnerable to wave damage.
b) Part-built ships, converted ships or FPSOs without a rudder or skeg, or with a turret or spider fitted forward, where
better directional stability may be obtained if towed by the stern.
c) Any structure with overhanging or vulnerable equipment near the bow, that could be vulnerable to wave damage,
or could interfere with the main and emergency towing arrangement.

4.2.3.3 For other towing configurations, the main towing arrangement should be carefully planned considering
the applicable requirements in [4.2.2].
Guidance note:
In a parallel tow configuration, each tug may normally be connected to the towed object with a single leg chain/wire
rope pennant. If only two tugs are used, it is recommended to arrange bridles in the following cases:
For the larger tug if there is a considerable difference in tug sizes.
For both tugs if the towed object has a rectangular bow.
4.2.4 Emergency towing arrangement

4.2.4.1 An emergency towing arrangement should be provided for all towed objects in any towing
configuration.
Guidance note:
The emergency towing arrangement normally consists of a spare towing line on board the towing vessel(s) and pickup arrangement connected to the towed object(s).
4.2.4.2 All parts of the emergency towing arrangement that may be used for towing shall fulfil the design load
requirement (FTD) in [4.2.6.1]. The pick-up arrangement, see [4.2.4.3] Guidance note items d) and e), should
have an MBL 25 tonnes.
4.2.4.3 The emergency towing arrangement on the towed object shall be such that it can be connected to the
towing vessel tow line in any weather condition that could be experienced along the tow route.
Guidance note:
The emergency system will for an unmanned tow typically consist of the following:
a) Towing connection point(s) with adequate strength (see [4.2.11] and if applicable [4.2.10]) and suitable
position(s) (see [4.2.4.4]).
b) Closed fairlead(s).
c) Emergency pennant, minimum length 80 metres, with hard eyes or sockets, preferably in one length and lashed
to the towed object side ensuring easy release. The length may be reduced for small barges and in benign weather
areas.
d) Extension wire, if required, long enough to prevent the float line from chafing on the stern of the tow.
e) Float line, to extend 75-90 metres abaft the stern of the tow.
f) Conspicuous pick-up buoy, with reflective tape, on the end of the float line.
4.2.4.4 The emergency towing arrangement shall be adequate to ensure safe and controllable towing without
any increased towing force being required. Preferably, it should be fitted at the bow of the tow and connection
point(s) should be independent from the main towline connection points.
4.2.5 Multi-barge transports

4.2.5.1 If two or more barges (vessels) are firmly connected through one large cargo item, the barges plus the
cargo should be defined as one towed object.
4.2.5.2 Facilities such as barge deck winches, hydraulic jacks, thrust struts, etc., shall be considered in order
to assist with the accurate positioning of the barges e.g. under construction pillars, during mating, etc.
Guidance note:
The simultaneous operation of winches and tugs should be carefully evaluated. Tugs and winches should preferably
be used separately.
4.2.6 Towing arrangement design load

4.2.6.1 Subject to the towline length(s) complying with [4.2.7.4] (or if applicable [4.2.7.5]), the design load
(FTD) for all components in the main and emergency towing arrangement shall for unrestricted towing be at
least:
FTD = 3.0 BP
BP 40
FTD = (220-BP) BP/60
40 < BP < 100
FTD = 2.0 BP
BP 100
BP: Continuous static bollard pull of the vessel in tonnes.

Guidance note:
To apply a BP of less than the certified bollard pull of the vessel may be accepted provided a corresponding restriction
on the bollard pull (i.e. towline tension) to be exercised by the tug is specified in the manual for the actual towing
operation. Continuous monitoring of the towline tension from the tug's wheelhouse should then be possible and the
maximum allowable pull should be 80% of the BP used for calculating FTD. Normally, a towline tension overload
alarm should be used/installed.
4.2.6.2 For restricted and for special towing arrangements (e.g. if the towline(s) does not comply with [4.2.7])
the FTD shall be based on a thorough evaluation of the:
requirement in [4.2.6.1]
towing configuration, see [4.2.2]
length, operation and stiffness of the towline, see e.g. [4.4.5] (note especially [4.4.5.4] and [4.4.5.5])
geographical area and tow route, see e.g. [4.1.2.2]
season and possible weather restrictions
number of tugs and tow spread lay-out
characteristics of the towed object
winch design
available back-up/contingency.
However, the FTD should normally not be less than 2 BP.

Guidance note:
For towing in benign weather areas, FTD = 2 BP is normally acceptable for all tug sizes if the towline length is
adequate. For towing under some conditions, a higher FTD than indicated in [4.2.6.1] may be applicable, see e.g.
[4.1.2.2], [4.4.5.4] and [4.4.5.5].
4.2.7 Towlines
4.2.7.1 Towlines for offshore towing should be steel wire ropes. For inshore (and weather routed coastal tows)
tows, fibre ropes may be found acceptable.
4.2.7.2 The MBLtowline for both main and spare towlines, as well as the emergency towline, shall be equal to
or greater than the FTD (see [4.2.6]).
4.2.7.3 The towline MBLtowline shall be defined as the certified towline wire rope MBL reduced, if applicable,
by the effect of bending and/or end connections.
Guidance note:
Normally, it is not required to reduce the towline MBL due to bending at the tug stern roller or to end termination by
an adequately sized (certified) socket.
4.2.7.4 The main and spare towing lines should for unrestricted towing have a deployable length of not less
than:
Ltowline = 1800 BP/FTD, but minimum 650 metres.
Where:
Ltowline:
BP:
FTD:
Minimum deployable tow line length (m)

Continuous static bollard pull of the vessel in tonnes
Towline design load in tonnes, see [4.2.6.1].
Guidance note 1:
The deployable length should neither include the minimum remaining turns on the winch drum nor the distance from
the drum to the stern rail or roller. One full-strength wire rope pennant which is permanently included in the towing
configuration may be considered when determining the available length. In order to fulfil the above requirement, the
towline total length normally needs to be at least 2000 BP / FTD.
Guidance note 2:
For coastal towages with a good weather forecast the minimum deployable length may be reduced to 500 m. If a fibre
rope is used as a spare, a shorter line length than 500 m may be acceptable.

4.2.7.5 For benign weather areas, the minimum main and spare towing lines deployable length shall be not
less than:
Ltowline = 1200 BP/FTD, but minimum 500 metres.
4.2.8 Intermediate pennant and shackles

4.2.8.1 A pennant between the triangular plate and towing line is normally advisable to ease the connection
work.
Guidance note:
A pennant with a lower minimum breaking load than the main towline may be applied if a reduction in the design
requirements for the towline connections is desired. However, this is not a recommended approach.
4.2.8.2 All wire rope pennants shall be of the same lay direction (i.e. right or left hand) as the towline.
4.2.8.3 The pennant MBL shall fulfil the FTD requirement stipulated in [4.2.6].
Guidance note:
The considered pennant MBL should be the effective (reduced) MBL as defined in [4.2.7.3].
4.2.8.4 Fibre rope pennants should not be used where there is adequate depth and sea room to allow for
sufficient shock absorbing in the tow line catenary.
4.2.8.5 If fibre rope pennants are used, they shall be in an as-new condition. The minimum breaking load of
any fibre rope pennants shall not be less than 1.5 times the towline FTD.
Guidance note:
Guidance Note:
IMO MSC/Circ.884 states: If fibre rope pennants are used, the pennants should be in a sound condition and the
minimum breaking load of any fibre rope pennants should not be less than:
2.0 times the tow line MBL, for tugs with bollard pull less than 50 tonnes;
1.5 times the tow line MBL, for tugs with bollard pull greater than 100 tonnes; and
linearly interpolated between 1.5 and 2.0 times the tow line MBL for tugs with bollard pull between 50 and 100 tonnes.
Fibre rope pennants should be of grommet construction and be terminated with hard eyes, and should not normally
be connected directly to the apex of the towing bridle.
4.2.8.6 Connection items such as shackles and rings shall have an MBL of not less than 1.3 times the towline
FTD. The shackle MBL shall be taken as the certified MBL reduced as applicable due to possible non-centric
loading of the shackle.
Guidance note:
IMO MSC/Circ.884 states: All connecting items like shackles, rings, etc., should have an ultimate load bearing
capacity of minimum 50% in excess of the documented minimum breaking load (MBL) of the towing arrangement to
be used. It is recommended that this criteria is adhered to at least if the shackle MBL (i.e. the MBL/SWL factor) is
not documented by any means other than a catalogue statement.
4.2.9 Towing bridle

4.2.9.1 A bridle should be used to connect the tow line to the towed object. Chains should be used in the way
of chafing areas such as fairleads and deck edges.
Guidance note:
Locations where the bridle might bear on the towed object should be rounded off. In cases where the bridle consists
of chain and wire, the length of the chain should extend beyond the towed object.
4.2.9.2 Fairleads shall have a shape preventing excessive bending stress in the chain links/wire.
4.2.9.3 Each single chain or wire rope leg of the bridle shall have an effective (i.e. after any possible capacity
reduction due to bending and/or end connections has been taken into account) MBLleg 1.25 FTD for FTD <
160 t, and 40 t + FTD for FTD > 160 t. See also [4.2.1.7] and [4.4.5.5].
4.2.9.4 Connection items such as shackles, triangular plates, and rings in the bridle shall have an MBL greater
than 1.3 times the required MBLleg. See Guidance note to [4.2.8.6].

4.2.9.5 If two towlines (tugs) are connected to one bridle, the requirements in [4.2.9.3] and [4.2.9.4] should
not be based on a FTD of less than 0.9 times the sum of the FTD for each tug.
4.2.9.6 The bridle apex connection shall be a triangular plate with drilled holes for the connection of shackles,
or a similar suitable arrangement.
Guidance note:
The hole diameter and triangle (or delta) plate thickness (including cheek plates) should be adequate for an
appropriate (centric) loading of the shackle (pin). A towing ring may also be found acceptable for short tows, but
substituting the triangular plate with a shackle is not acceptable.
4.2.9.7 The bridle opening angle at the apex should normally be between 45 and 60 degrees. If it exceeds
90 degrees the design load according to [4.2.9.3] shall be increased by a factor corresponding to the maximum
theoretical bridle leg load, Fleg, for a towline load Ftowline divided by the towline load Ftowline.
4.2.9.8 A recovery wire rope should be fitted to the triangular plate, or - if single leg connections are used - to
the end of the legs.
Guidance note:
The recovery wire rope should be led to a winch in an accessible position with the capacity to recover the bridle. The
weight of the towline that it may be required to lift with the bridle should be considered. A wire rope MBL of not less
than 6 times the weight of the bridle or leg is recommended apart from if less capacity is justified.
4.2.10 Fairleads
4.2.10.1 The ultimate capacity (MBL) of fairleads shall not be less than the required single leg MBLleg
according to [4.2.9.3] and [4.2.9.5] if applicable.
4.2.10.2 Fairleads, including their (under deck) support structure, shall be designed to resist the load
corresponding to the line pull defined in [4.2.10.1] from any likely direction. All possible directions, both
vertical and horizontal, should be considered. See also Guidance note to [4.2.11.3].
4.2.10.3 The fairleads' design, size and position shall be adequate considering operational aspects.
Guidance note:
Fairleads should be of an approved type, located close to the deck edge. They should be fitted with capping bars and
sited in line with the towline connections, to prevent side load on the towing connections.
Where the bridle might bear on the deck edge, the deck edge should be suitably faired and reinforced to prevent the
bridle from chafing.
Where towing connections are of a quick-release type, then the fairlead design should allow all the released parts to
pass easily through the fairlead.
4.2.11 Towline connection points

4.2.11.1 The towing arrangement should normally be connected to the object using purposely designed towing
connections.
Guidance note:
Normally, a Smit-type bracket should be used. However, other types of connections may be accepted based on
thorough documentation of their strength, feasibility and actual condition.
4.2.11.2 Towline connections, including their (under deck) support structure, shall be designed to resist the
towline pull from any likely direction, considering the position of fairleads as applicable.
4.2.11.3 The ultimate capacity (MBL) of any towline connection (bracket, bollard and their foundations) shall
not be less than the required single leg MBLleg according to [4.2.9.3] and [4.2.9.5] if applicable.
Guidance note:
The above requirement could alternatively for welded steel structures be documented by calculations of the ULS
(plastic) design capacity with the following input parameters:
Design load (i.e. included load factor) in ULS = 0.85 MBLleg.
Steel characteristic resistance, see DNV-OS-H102 Sec.5 A500.
Material factor, see DNV-OS-H102 Sec.5 B400.

4.2.11.4 Submerged (or close to the water line) towing brackets shall be designed to fail without perforating
the towed object if the towing bracket is overloaded.
Guidance note:
Alternatively the ultimate capacity of such towing brackets should not be less than 1.3 actual towline MBL.
4.3 Towing vessels

4.3.1 General
4.3.1.1 General requirements for towing vessels are given in DNV-OS-H101, Sec.6 D.
4.3.1.2 The towing arrangement, towlines, pennants, etc, shall comply with [4.2].
4.3.1.3 Proper documentation for the vessel(s) and equipment shall be available, see [4.3.10].
4.3.2 Criteria for selection of towing vessels

4.3.2.1 Only vessels intended for towing (e.g. with the class notation tug) shall be used for planned towing
operations.
4.3.2.2 The vessel(s) shall fulfil the bollard pull requirement in [4.3.3] and have a trade certificate valid for the
tow route.
4.3.2.3 Towing vessels shall also be selected with due consideration to the:
tow route and towing procedure

effective utilisation of the bollard pull
manoeuvrability
possible contingency situations.
4.3.2.4 The towing vessels shall be equipped with a towing winch, see [4.3.7]. Towing with hooks should only
be used for assistance and in sheltered waters.
4.3.3 Bollard pull

4.3.3.1 The effective bollard pull (BP) shall be equal to or greater than the calculated towing force FTR
according to, as applicable, [3.6.2] and/or [3.6.3].
4.3.3.2 The effective BP shall be taken as the documented continuous static BP (see [4.3.10.2]) multiplied by
relevant efficiency factors taking into account:
the effect of waves and other environmental loads on the tug itself, see [4.3.3.3] and [4.3.3.4]
propeller race interaction, see [4.3.3.6]
more than one towing vessel, see [4.3.4].
4.3.3.3 In principle, the BP efficiency in a seastate should be calculated in each case considering the factors
listed below. However, the type/size (represented by length) of the vessel and static BP are considered the most
important factors. Hence, it is acceptable to find the BP efficiency as indicated in [4.3.3.4].
Guidance note:
Factors influencing the BP efficiency in a seastate:
a) continuous static BP
b) hull types (standard, X-bow or other shape)
c) size (length and width/depth/displacement)
d) wind area and shape
e) propeller (fixed or variable pitch) and /or thruster types (L drive, Z drive, Kort nozzle, etc), numbers, position and
possible interaction
f) rudder types and interaction with selected propulsion
g) draft, trim and list
h) towline characteristics and towed object
i) stability and general behaviour vs environmental conditions
j) environmental condition in the towing area (type of sea and period) vs hull design
k) vessel's general condition and crew experience.

4.3.3.4 Unless there are more accurate calculations or model tests of the towing efficiency of the tug (towing
vessel) in the design environmental conditions, the efficiency factor is for tows defined by:
TE = 80 (18 0.0417 LOA
BP 20 ) (Hs 1 ) / 100
Where:
TE: Tug efficiency factor
LOA: Tug overall length, LOA = 45 m to be used for all LOA > 45 m
BP: Tug bollard pull, BP 20 t and BP = 100 t to be used for all BP > 100 t
1 m Hs 5 m, see [3.6].
4.3.3.5 Tugs with a length less than 35 metres are not recommended for ocean tows.
Guidance note:
Normally the tug length should be at least 40 metres for towage in harsh areas/seasons. Lengths less than 35 metres
could be acceptable subject to documented tug feasibility.
4.3.3.6 For towing with short towlines, the interaction effects due to propeller race between the tug and the
towed object shall be considered in estimates of the required pull. Unless more accurate analysis is performed,
an efficiency factor may be taken as:
int = [1 + 0.015A exp /L towline ]
Ltowline > 30 m
where:
int:
Aexp:
Ltowline:
h = 2.1
h = 1.7
Interaction efficiency factor.

Projected cross-sectional area of towed object in m2.
Towline length in metres.
for typical barge shapes.
for ship-shaped objects.
Guidance note:
See DNV-RP-H103 Sec.7.2.8 for further advice on the effect of propeller race/short lines.
4.3.4 Towing fleets

4.3.4.1 The towing fleet's combined effective bollard pull shall be equal to or greater than the calculated
towing force according to, as applicable, [3.6.2] and/or [3.6.3].
Guidance note:
A towing fleet is defined as more than one towing vessel or a self-propelled towed object assisted by one or more
towing vessels. Any thrust from the towed object should be considered as a towing vessel (tug) in this sub-section.
4.3.4.2 The combined effective fleet bollard pull shall be determined considering the effective bollard pull of
each involved towing vessel and the:
Towing fleet lay-out, see [4.3.4.3] and [4.3.4.4].
Positioning tolerances, see [4.3.4.5], [4.3.4.6] and [4.3.4.7].
Contingency requirements, see [4.3.5].
4.3.4.3 The combined bollard pull shall consider the possible pull direction of each towing vessel.
Guidance note:
In order to account for variations in the pull direction, a maximum of 95% of the calculated capacity as a single tug
should be considered for the tugs pulling in the forward direction. It may be applicable to consider the negative pull
from stern/steering tugs.
4.3.4.4 Any asymmetric lay-out of the towing vessels that introduces a yaw moment on the towed object shall
be accounted for in the combined effective bollard pull.

Guidance note:
The following possible effects of an asymmetric lay-out should be considered:
The tugs cannot pull in the same direction without rotating the object.
One or more tugs need to apply a reduced pull in order to avoid object rotation.
The object rotates to an equilibrium position that causes the calculated towing force to increase.
4.3.4.5 If the towed object needs to be kept at an earth-fixed heading (or heading range), this shall be duly
considered in the fleet lay-out and in the required fleet bollard pull calculations.
4.3.4.6 If the towed object needs to be manoeuvred within strict tolerances, this shall be duly considered in the
fleet lay-out and in the type of towing vessels used.
Guidance note:
The above is normally best achieved by utilizing a number of high-manoeuvrability type tugs.
4.3.4.7 During manoeuvring within strict tolerances (e.g. during positioning), ample spare pull capacity should
be provided.
Guidance note:
Normally with strict tolerances the fleet effective bollard pull should be at least twice the towing force calculated
according to [3.6.3.3] in any direction. See also [4.3.5.4].
4.3.5 Towing vessel contingency

4.3.5.1 Spare equipment and arrangements shall be provided to reconnect any towing vessel in the case of
towline failure. See [4.2.4], [4.3.6.8] and [4.3.6.9].
4.3.5.2 For single tug tows, assisting tugs shall normally be engaged at (re-)commencement of the towage and
at arrival destination(s).
4.3.5.3 Adequate contingency shall be provided during sailing in narrow areas and/or in areas with heavy
traffic.
Guidance note:
For a single tug tow, the following will normally be accepted as adequate contingency:
An assisting/spare tug of adequate size (recommended).
The applied towing vessel has sufficient pull capacity after a single failure in its propulsion system.
The towed object is equipped with an emergency anchoring system that can be activated in the actual area within
an acceptable time frame. See also [5.1.7.3] Guidance note.
4.3.5.4 During positioning, the towing fleet shall maintain adequate control over the unit during all phases of
the operation with a loss of thrust from one tug.
4.3.5.5 The towing fleet's combined effective bollard pull shall take into consideration the failure of one tug
in any sheltered defined hold area. See also DNV-OS-H101, Sec.6 D700.
4.3.6 Towline details and spare equipment

4.3.6.1 The requirements stipulated in [4.2.7] apply.
4.3.6.2 Tugs shall be equipped with suitable anti-chafing equipment.
4.3.6.3 A gog rope or alternative arrangement (e.g. a towing pod) shall be provided to prevent athwart ship
pull from the towing line.
4.3.6.4 The gog rope should be mechanically operated and capable of being adjusted from a remote station. A
spare shall be carried.
4.3.6.5 Where a towing pod is fitted, its strength shall be shown to be adequate for the forces it is likely to
encounter. It should be well faired and the inside and ends must have a minimum radius of 10 times the towline
diameter.
4.3.6.6 Where neither a towing pod nor gog rope is fitted, then an alternative means of centring the tow line
should be provided. However, it is not recommended to tow with pins up.

4.3.6.7 On square-sterned towing vessels, it is preferable to fit mechanically or hydraulically operated stops
near the aft end of the bulwarks to prevent the towline from slipping around the tug's quarter in heavy weather.
4.3.6.8 A spare towline shall be available on board. The spare towline should preferably be on a second winch
drum. If the towline is not on a winch drum, a system for easy transfer of the spare towline to the winch drum
shall be installed.
Guidance note:
For inshore tows, the spare towline may be substituted by another spare towing arrangement. Generally the spare
towing arrangement should have the same strength and towing capability as the main towing arrangement.
4.3.6.9 Additionally, the following spare equipment should be kept available on board the towing vessel and/
or the towed object:
1 pennant
2 fibre rope springs, if used
A suitable number of shackles, rings and other connecting equipment for at least one complete towing line
configuration.
4.3.7 Towing winches

4.3.7.1 The towing winch shall be approved according to classification requirements.
4.3.7.2 Winches for open-sea towing should be remotely operated from the wheel house and so designed and
instrumented that the loads in the wire rope can be determined from the drum.
Guidance note:
As examples, this may be arranged either directly by use of a load cell or indirectly when the brake is actuated by
hydraulic pressure.
4.3.8 Equipment for personnel transfer

4.3.8.1 At least one workboat with propulsion suitable for the safe transfer of personnel and equipment in
open-sea conditions should normally be carried on board for transferring personnel and equipment from the
towing vessel to the towed barge.
Guidance note 1:
If the workboat is of the inflatable type, a flooring of adequate strength should be fitted to allow the carriage of heavy
objects.
Guidance note 2:
The general requirement of a workboat may be disregarded if the following is complied with:
The towing vessel is so manoeuvrable and fender protected that direct transfer of personnel to the towed object
is as safe or safer than from a workboat.
The towed object has adequate locations with sufficient strength for direct personnel transfer from the towing
vessel.
Any required emergency actions, such as releasing the towed object anchor, in the case of a towing vessel blackout could be done without using a workboat.
4.3.9 Bunkers and other consumables

4.3.9.1 The towing vessel shall carry adequate supply of fuel and other consumables considering the tow route
and the season.
Guidance note:
Consumables including potable water, lubricating oil and stores, should be sufficient for the anticipated duration of
the towage plus a reserve of at least 5 days supply. For tows likely to take more than 20 days the reserve should be
increased to 7 days.
4.3.9.2 If refuelling en route is proposed, this should be described in the towing manual. See [4.4.4.6].

4.3.10 Vessel documentation

4.3.10.1 The following main particulars should normally be described:
name, signal letters, owners and port of registry

main engine(s): manufacturer and number, maximum continuous output and corresponding r.p.m.
static continuous bollard pull (BP)
propeller(s): number, type, whether nozzle is fitted or not
side thrusters (if fitted): position and thrust
fuel capacity
fuel consumption, tonnes per day
stability particulars for departure and arrival loading conditions.
4.3.10.2 The effective continuous (static) bollard pull (BP) of the vessel shall be documented, normally by a
bollard pull certificate issued or endorsed within the last 10 years by a body approved by an IACS member or
other recognised certification body.
Guidance note:
In order to comply with the above requirement a renewed bollard pull test is required at least every 10th year and also
if the vessel has undergone significant structural- or machinery changes. The bollard pull certificate should state the
test procedure. A bollard pull certificate that is more than 10 years old may be acceptable but the certified value should
be reduced by at least 10% + 2% per year since the expiry date of the BP certificate.
4.3.10.3 It should always be evaluated whether the actual static BP is adequately represented by the
documented BP.
Guidance note:
The tug BP will/may decrease over time due to aspects such as:
propeller blades/nozzle wear (normal wear or cavitation)
hull aspects (fouling)
engine general wear and tear
reduced engine-equipment performance relating to propulsion.
4.3.10.4 For the towing winch and towing lines, the following should be available:
Certificate and particulars for the towing winch stating the manufacturer, type, maximum holding and
stalling power.
Certificates for the main and spare towing wire ropes, stating the manufacturer, diameter of rope, length,
construction, nominal tensile strength of wires, breaking strength.
A log for the towing lines giving the following information on each rope:
date taken into use

records of inspection
date of renewal of end sockets or other end connections
a report on any damage to the rope.
Certificates for shackles, rings, pennants, fibre rope springs and other connecting equipment.
4.4 Towing operations

4.4.1 General
4.4.1.1 The guidance and requirements for operational aspects stated in [2.3] generally apply.
4.4.2 Towing criteria

4.4.2.1 Tow out criteria shall be established and agreed on for all towing operations.
Guidance note:
The reason for the tow out criteria is to allow time for familiarisation with the tow, and to ensure an adequate distance
to shore in adverse weather conditions, see [4.4.4.4]. Hence, the towing vessel(s), towing arrangement/procedure,
towed object and towing route/area need to be assessed. Any design imposed restrictions should also be considered
See [2.1.3].

4.4.2.2 If not otherwise justified, the following maximum wind speeds should be forecasted for the first
24 hours of the tow:
For unusual tows with a large wind area: 15 knots (BF 4).
For standard tows: 20 knots (BF 5).
For standard tows with a small wind area and a towing master familiar with the type of tow and towing
route: 25 knots (BF 6).
4.4.2.3 If a longer duration than 24 hours is required to obtain adequate sea-room, see [4.4.4], the above
limiting wind conditions should be forecasted for a period of at least 1.5 times the theoretical time required to
obtain such sea-room.
4.4.2.4 The tow out should take place with good visibility. Due attention should be paid to the effects of snow,
rain, fog, etc. This is particularly relevant if the tow master is unfamiliar with the area. Assistance from local
pilots should be evaluated.
4.4.2.5 The towing criteria shall consider all the limitations imposed by weather restricted transports.
4.4.2.6 If applicable, towing criteria for approximating the coast and/or narrow waters shall be established and
agreed on for all towing operations.
4.4.3 Weather forecast

4.4.3.1 Arrangements for receiving weather forecasts at regular intervals prior to and during towing shall be
made.
4.4.3.2 Weather forecast requirements shall comply with DNV-OS-H101, Sec.4 C.
4.4.4 Routing, sea-room and navigation

4.4.4.1 The routing shall be chosen so that adequate bottom clearance and sea room are available during the
towing. See also [4.5.4].
4.4.4.2 Consideration should be given to the navigational accuracy, environmental conditions and loads,
motion characteristics of the unit, possible heel and trim effects, towing force, etc.
4.4.4.3 The latest edition of available sea charts should be used. An IMO-approved electronic chart display
and information system (ECDIS) is acceptable.
4.4.4.4 The route planning should include a description of how to ensure adequate sea room in the case of
weather conditions that exceed the standard towing criteria (see [3.6.2.1]) or a towline failure.
Guidance note:
Sea room is typically defined as the distance that the tow can safely drift without grounding or colliding with an
offshore installation. In order to demonstrate adequate sea room, the following two cases should be considered:
Case 1 - In bad weather (outside good weather forecast periods): the distance drifted whilst the significant wave height
is greater than 5m in a storm for that section of the voyage that includes the effect of any associated currents. The
design storm for determining the required sea room will typically be the 1-year return after the end of a good weather
forecast. The storm duration and prevailing directions may be estimated based on typical data for the particular site
and on DNV-RP-C205, Figure 3-10.
It should be assumed that the tugs develop negligible effective pull, unless it can be shown that the actual tugs can
safely develop such pull without overloading their deployed towing gear in the relevant water depths. This may be
demonstrated by showing the results of towline tension monitoring in the relevant weather and towing conditions
(including significant wave heights and periods, water depths, towline deployed lengths and other relevant towline
properties). These should show that the towline yield stress (typically corresponding to about 40% of the wire break
load) is not exceeded. These results may also be used to validate towline dynamic simulations to extrapolate the results
for other conditions. If stretchers are used, then their fatigue life must be shown to be adequate.
The critical depth contours for grounding, allowing for roll, pitch and heave in the worst weather conditions at LAT,
should be plotted in advance. The route should also be planned to avoid passing too close upwind or up-current of any
platforms or other isolated obstacles, especially for single tug tows. The required sea room and the basis for its
calculation should be included in the towing procedures/manual for the guidance of the tug captain(s)/towmaster.
The actual tow route may safely deviate from the planned route if the weather forecasts are favourable as long as the
tow can obtain the required sea room before bad weather is likely to arrive.
Case 2 - When approaching a potential lee shore (with a good weather forecast): the distance drifted in the worst
acceptable forecast conditions during the time taken to replace and reconnect a broken towline and/or disabled tug.
The acceptable forecast conditions should be included in the towage procedures /manual for a particular case.
Approaching a potential lee shore should only be attempted without a good weather forecast if there is no practicable
alternative.
Alternatively, an additional (connected) tug may be required to guard against a towline breakage or disabling of a
single tug when approaching or leaving a lee shore.

The same philosophy should be followed when transiting choke points with limited sea room, or with a high
collision risk, with the tow waiting for a suitable good weather window before committing to the approach.
4.4.4.5 Assisting tugs should be engaged at the commencement of the towage, at any intermediate bunkering
port and at the arrival destination, as appropriate.
4.4.4.6 Bunkering ports, if required, shall be agreed before departure. If it is not practical to take the tow into
port, then alternative arrangements must be agreed which may include:
Where the towage is by more than one tug, each tug in turn may be released to proceed to a nearby port for
bunkers, subject to a favourable weather forecast. The remaining tug(s) should meet the applicable towing
force requirements stated in [3.6].
Relief of the towing tug by another suitable tug, which itself is considered suitable to undertake the towage,
so that the towing tug may proceed to a nearby port for bunkers.
Bunkering at sea from a visiting vessel subject to suitable procedures and calm weather conditions.
4.4.5 Towline control & seabed clearance

4.4.5.1 Adequate towline pull direction and length should be continuously ensured, see also [4.3.6].
4.4.5.2 During normal operation, the length of the towline should be adjusted at regular intervals to avoid
chafing and/or towline bending fatigue at the stern rail.
4.4.5.3 The towline should have a sufficient clearance to the seabed throughout the towage.
Guidance note 1:
Tug masters should be cognizant of the towline catenary at all times, but particularly in shallow water to avoid towline
abrasion or snagging on the sea floor. Ideally, this should be by monitoring the water depth, towline tension and
deployed towline length from the tug stern combined with a method of calculating the towline maximum depth below
sea level.
Guidance note 2:
The following formula may be used to estimate the towline catenary:
C = Ltowline2 W / TW
Where:
C:
Ltowline:
W:
TW:
Catenary in metres
Towline length in metres
Towline dry weight (mas) in kg/metres. (Typically; D = 52 mm, W = 10 kg/m)
Winch tension in N.
4.4.5.4 Weather restrictions should be defined for areas where it is not considered convenient to deploy the
minimum lengths indicated in [4.2.7.4] and [4.2.7.5] due to limited depth or manoeuvring restrictions. The
weather restrictions should be selected so the needed/applied BP FTD Ltowline /1800 (or 1200), where
Ltowline is the deployed towline length.
Guidance note:
Alternatively the FTD as shown in [4.2.6] could be increased to allow Ltowline to comply with [4.2.7]. See also [4.4.5.5]
below.
4.4.5.5 If FTD ([4.2.6]) is increased to allow a shorter towline the complete towing arrangement strength
including towline, pennants, bridle, fairleads and towing connections ([4.2.7] through [4.2.1.1]) shall be
correspondingly increased.
4.4.6 Towing clearances

4.4.6.1 See [2.3.4] regarding air draft requirements.
4.4.6.2 For requirements as to out-of-dock clearances see DNV-OS-H201, Sec.4 E200.

Guidance note:
The out of dock clearances (and corresponding procedures) may be found applicable for passing through other narrow
channels too.
4.4.6.3 Protrusions below the hull shall be considered.

4.4.6.4 The tow should normally be routed so that an ample under-keel clearance is maintained. The clearance
requirements shall consider uncertainties in the available bathymetry data.
Guidance note:
Normally the clearance should be at least 5 metres (from LAT) for the towed object and tug in inshore areas and 10
metres in offshore areas. However, this may be inadequate if depth indications are based on (very) old surveys done
by lead line which could have missed isolated pinnacles. In such cases additional surveys and/or other tow (transport)
routes should be considered. See also [4.4.6.5] below.
4.4.6.5 In surveyed (see [4.5.4]) areas and/or areas with regular verification of chart indicated depths, the
calculated minimum clearance after considering all relevant effects should be the greater of one (1) metre or
ten (10) per cent of the maximum draught, with a maximum value (before allowances for the effects stated in
the Guidance Note) of 3 metres.
Guidance note:
Calculations of the under-keel clearance should as applicable take account of the effects of:
a) roll, pitch, heave and initial heel and trim
b) inclination due to wind
c) wind- and wave-induced slow drift motions
d) tow-line pull
e) tolerance on bathymetry
f) changes in the draught of the transport or towed object
g) differences in water density
h) low water tidal height variations
i) squat effects
j) deflections of the structure
k) errors in measurement (survey tolerances)
l) negative surge.
4.4.6.6 The width of the towing route should normally be at least three times the maximum width of the towed
object plus allowances for the tow yaw.
Guidance note:
The tow yaw will typically depend on the directional stability of the tow, towing configuration and the towing speed.
The yaw should be conservatively assessed based on the following:
relevant experience with similar tows
theoretical evaluations/calculations based on tug configurations, see also [4.4.6.7] below
model tests with a set-up to obtain realistic results for the yaw (and sway).
4.4.6.7 Additional channel width may be required in exposed areas, if there are significant cross currents or if
needed for the tugs to manoeuvre safely.
4.4.6.8 Narrow (normally defined as less than 5 times the width, including allowances for yaw) channels
should be passed through only in favourable current and weather conditions, including good visibility. Special
procedures may be required.
Guidance note:
Contingency should be considered, see e.g. [4.4.8.2].
4.4.6.9 The sideways clearance to the first possible point of contact over or under water shall be considered.
4.4.6.10 For single tug tows, assisting tug(s) should be engaged for passing through narrow channels. See also
[4.3.5].

4.4.7 Towing procedures

4.4.7.1 The tow shall be carried out according to agreed operational procedures, normally included in a towing
manual. See also [2.2.4].
Guidance note:
The towing manual should normally contain detailed information regarding:
towing (tow out) criteria
any operational restrictions, see [2.3.3]
criteria for seeking shelter
towing route
ports/areas of shelter
estimated towing time (ETD, ETA)
environmental limitations w.r.t. the object's structural capacity, seafastening, grillage etc.
contingency actions
description of the ballast condition
reporting routines for the tow's progress, ETA, status, etc.
contact persons and telephone numbers
expected environmental conditions for the intended towing route for the relevant season
procedures for departure and arrival as well as calls at intermediate ports (e.g. for bunkering).
4.4.7.2 The towing manual shall be distributed to key personnel. See [2.3.4].
4.4.8 Mitigating actions and contingency

4.4.8.1 For large tows or towing close to shipping lanes, the use of a guard ship to prevent other vessels and
objects from jeopardising the tow should be considered.
4.4.8.2 The presence of a riding crew on the towed object may also be relevant in narrow waters to pick up a
towline, or release the anchor, in case of towline failure.
4.4.8.3 See [4.3.5] for towing vessel contingency requirements.

4.4.9.1 See [2.3.7] (DNV-OS-H101 Sec.4 F) for general requirements.
4.4.9.2 Before departure, an inspection of the towing vessel and towed object, including all parts of the towing
arrangement, shall be carried out to confirm compliance with the above stated requirements.
4.4.9.3 The crew of the towing vessel(s) and boarding crew or permanent crew of the towed object shall be
familiar with the equipment and installations which may be used during the voyage.
4.4.9.4 Functional testing of the towed object's machinery (equipment) that may be used during the voyage
should be performed.
Guidance note:
The machinery (equipment) tests should be done (or at least witnessed) by the personnel who will/may operate the
systems during towage. Normally, there should be a demonstration of the operation of the bilge and ballast systems,
anchoring arrangement, etc. on the towed object before departure.
4.4.9.5 Functional testing of towing winch systems shall as a minimum be carried out.
4.4.9.6 An inspection of the towing wire ropes shall be performed.
4.4.9.7 The towing line shall not be used if:
the reduction in towline strength due to wear, corrosion and broken wires exceeds 10% and
there is severe kinking, crushing or other damage resulting in distortion of the rope structure.
Guidance note:
The tow line should be subject to special evaluations if the number of broken wires over a length of 7 times the tow
line diameter exceeds 6% of the total number of wires in the rope, if significant wear is found on the outer layer of
wires or if the tow line is significantly corroded.

4.4.9.8 Special attention shall be paid to the connection of end sockets and such sockets shall be renewed at
regular intervals.
Guidance note:
If used to form the towline termination, the closed socket (normally spelter type) should be renewed at intervals not
exceeding two years, irrespective of the condition of the socket and its wire. Except when re-socketed at sea for
contingency reasons, socketing should only be done by a certified specialist contractor that is approved by an IACS
member.
4.5 Large tows

4.5.1 General
4.5.1.1 Large tows are defined as the towing of large self-floating objects or multi-barges (see [5.3]) by a
towing fleet (see [4.3.4]).
4.5.1.2 The requirements in this sub-section should be considered as additional - or, where in conflict, as
substituting requirements applicable for large tows.
4.5.2 Navigational equipment

4.5.2.1 The navigation of the towed object shall be monitored by means of two independent systems.
4.5.2.2 The secondary system should be separate from the primary system, both in principle and location.
4.5.2.3 At critical phases of the towage such as when departing from a mooring location, towing in narrow
waters and arrival, both systems should be used as a cross-reference to each other.
4.5.2.4 For towing in narrow channels and for accurate positioning, the compatibility of the navigation
equipment on board the survey ship and lead tug should be verified by tests carried out prior to commencement
of the tow.
4.5.3 Clearances
4.5.3.1 The requirements in [4.4.6] generally apply, but for large tows where position control and surveys are
normally enhanced, see [4.5.2] and [4.5.4], the minimum width of the towing route could be reduced pursuant
to agreement. Sufficient clearances for the towing fleet to manoeuvre adequately should be ensured. Note also
especially [4.4.6.7].
4.5.3.2 The clearance to shore in wave sheltered holding areas should not be less than 2 nautical miles.
4.5.4 Survey of towing route

4.5.4.1 For large tows or towing in restricted waters, a special bottom survey of the intended towing route and
receiving site should be carried out.
4.5.4.2 The survey should cover an adequately wide route to ensure that no unknown hazards exist which
might hamper the tow.
Guidance note:
Normally, a survey using side scanning sonar will be adequate. If the underkeel clearances are close to the limit,
bathymetric data should be provided. The survey should not be older than 3 months and should normally cover a width
of 5 times the beam, with a minimum of 500 metres.
4.5.5 Monitoring
4.5.5.1 The following should be considered to be monitored manually or by monitoring systems during the
towing operation:
water level, air pressure, etc, for buoyancy tanks

position and orientation relative to the towing channel
draught, heel and trim
underkeel clearance and
environmental conditions.

Sec.5 Towed objects Page 47
SECTION 5 TOWED OBJECTS

5.1 General
5.1.1 Application
5.1.1.1 This section is generally applicable to all types of towed objects. Specific requirements for some types
of towed objects are given in sections [5.2] through [5.5]. See also DNV-RP-H203 for special requirements for
MOUs (semi-submersible and jack-up rigs).
5.1.1.2 The requirements in Sec.2, Sec.3 and Sec.4 that are relevant for the towed object apply.
5.1.2 Loads and structural strength

5.1.2.1 The structural strength of the towed object shall be documented considering all relevant loads. See also
Sec.3.
5.1.3 Stability and seaworthiness

5.1.3.1 Adequate intact and damaged stability and safety against the entry of water shall be documented. See
DNV-OS-H101, Sec.5 for detailed requirements.
5.1.3.2 The acceptable seaworthiness of towed objects shall be documented for the intended towing route.
Guidance note:
A certificate from the class society (or statutory authorities) documenting seaworthiness will normally be required for
a towed vessel. For other towed objects, the seaworthiness needs to be documented through analysis/calculations and
surveys in each case.
5.1.3.3 If used, it should be documented that the specified slack tanks will not jeopardise the stability or
strength of the towed object.
5.1.3.4 If the object for any reason, see [4.2.3.2], is towed by the stern, adequate stability, seaworthiness and
strength shall be documented for this towing condition.
5.1.4 Manned towed objects

5.1.4.1 The manning of tows should normally be limited to those where early intervention by the riding crew
can reduce the risk to the tow.
5.1.4.2 The organisation, qualifications and training of the riding crew shall comply with applicable national
and international regulations.
5.1.4.3 The accommodation, consumables, lifesaving appliances, fire-fighting equipment and facilities for
communicating with the towing vessel shall comply with applicable national- and international regulations.
5.1.5 Towing and navigation equipment

5.1.5.1 Towing equipment on the towed object shall comply with the requirements stipulated in [4.2], i.e.
[4.2.3], [4.2.4], [4.2.9], [4.2.10] and [4.2.11].
5.1.5.2 The requirements for navigational lights and shapes are given in DNV-OS-H101, Sec.6 D500.
5.1.5.3 If the towed object may offer a small response to radar, the fitting of equipment identifying the object's
position shall be considered.
5.1.5.4 If the navigation equipment is installed on board the towed object and the towing operation is
conducted from here, compatibility and tests as per [4.5.2.4] apply.
5.1.6 Access
5.1.6.1 The towed object, whether manned or not, shall be equipped with adequate access means.
5.1.6.2 The access means shall allow safe entry in all relative sea and towed-object directions. Normally, this
implies that proper (preferably recessed and in good condition) steel ladders from sea level to deck are available
on both sides of the towed object.
5.1.7 Emergency anchoring

5.1.7.1 A towed object should normally (see [5.1.7.3]) have at least one adequate anchor available for
emergency anchoring.

Guidance note:
An adequate anchor should normally:
be secured with an easy release arrangement
have a minimum weight of 1/10 of the calculated towing (holding) force (see [3.6])
be connected to a minimum 200 metre-long cable with an MBL of minimum 20 times the anchor weight.
5.1.7.2 A windlass or similar arrangement should be capable of paying out and holding the anchor.
5.1.7.3 An emergency anchor could be substituted by alternative arrangements defined based on a risk
assessment for each (type of) towage.
Guidance note:
The risk assessment should consider at least the following:
use of anchor if fitted - practical (and safe) in an emergency situation
tow route, including (missing) anchoring possibilities
weather restrictions and prevailing weather conditions
towing vessel(s), i.e. propulsion redundancy, type, condition and track record
additional tugs (escorting or on call),
bridle reconnection possibility (if both the main and spare towline have failed)
whether the towing vessel anchor(s) may be useful or not
whether an escort (on call) tug can be easy connected to the (broken-down) towing vessel and towed object.
Alternative arrangements could e.g. consist of one or more of the following actions:
redundant towing vessel/fleet (see [4.3.5])
escort (or on call) tug when near coastlines
weather restrictions (e.g. on wind/wave direction or to ensure that the towing vessel capacity is adequate after a
single failure) when approaching coastlines.
5.1.8 Mooring equipment

5.1.8.1 Except for tows which cannot enter harbour, e.g. large self-floating objects, a suitable number of
mooring ropes of adequate strength and length shall be available on board.
5.1.9 Ballast and drainage systems

5.1.9.1 Adequate ballast pumping arrangements should normally be available for any towed object.
Guidance note 1:
The required pump capacity and lay-out should be based on the planned use and possible emergency need for
ballasting. The pumping ability for the following should, as found relevant, be evaluated:
adjusting of agreed departure condition
required ballasting before/during/after discharge (e.g. lift off from barge offshore)
reduce/adjust draft/trim due to shallow waters
ballasting due to air draft restrictions
correction of unintended flooding
de-ballasting after accidental grounding
ballasting to allow work below normal waterline
access to flooded compartment (e.g. pump or anchor winch room).
Guidance note 2:
If ballast pumps are not fitted or are out of order, it will normally be acceptable to arrange the required pumping
capability using portable pumps placed on board the towed object.
Guidance note 3:
The pumping capability requirement may be waived for some un-manned self-floating objects and barges. A risk
assessment considering the items listed in Guidance note 1 should be carried out.

5.1.9.2 For classed towed vessels, the drainage system and (bilge) pumps should as a minimum comply with
the Rules of the Classification Society.
5.1.9.3 For unmanned towed objects, it should be documented that the tug crew are familiar with the pumping
system and are able to board and run the pumps at short notice.
5.1.10 Seafastening
5.1.10.1 For guidance and requirements for seafastening on board the towed object, see [3.5].
5.2 Barges
5.2.1 General
5.2.1.1 For general requirements for barges, see DNV-OS-H101 Sec.6 D, and for general requirements for
towed objects, see [5.1] above.
5.2.1.2 Unclassed barges shall be subject to appropriate project-specific structural, equipment and machinery
checks. They shall have a valid load line, or load line exemption, certificate.
5.2.2 Stability and towing condition

5.2.2.1 For general stability requirements, see [5.1.3]. For requirements for barges, see DNV-OS-H101 Sec.5
B.
5.2.2.2 In order to improve sea-keeping and avoid slamming, it is recommended that the towed barge is
trimmed minimum 0.005 times the barge length by stern, and ballasted to a draft at bow of minimum 0.022
times the barge length.
Guidance note 1:
Another trim may be found beneficial for some barges, e.g. where barges with faired sterns are fitted with directional
stabilising skegs, it may be preferable to have no trim. This should normally be documented in the Trim and Stability
booklet. However, allowance should be made for trim caused by the towline force and there should be adequate
freeboard at the bow (and possibly a breakwater) to minimise damage from green water coming over the bow.
Guidance note 2:
A reduced minimum draft at the bow may be considered in benign weather areas and during summer in other areas.
Normally the draft should be at least 0.02 times the barge length.
5.2.3 Anchoring and mooring equipment

5.2.3.1 The general requirements for anchoring equipment are given in [5.1.7].
Guidance note:
Further guidance may be obtained from DNV Ship Rules, Pt.3 Ch.3 Sec.3.
5.2.3.2 It is recommended to have at least 4 mooring ropes of 110 m each (or 2 of 220 m each) available on
board barges.
5.2.4 Barge global strength

5.2.4.1 The global barge capacity shall be confirmed. For barges or vessels classed with a recognised
classification society, it is recommended to base the global strength verification on stated allowable shear and
bending capacities.
5.2.4.2 For barges without class, the global strength shall be verified according to DNV-OS-H102. The
verification shall consider all relevant loads and load combinations, i.e. hydrostatic loads, hydrodynamic loads,
motion and weights shall be evaluated.
5.2.5 Barge local strength

5.2.5.1 The barge local strength shall be verified. Local strength verifications shall consider the actual barge
condition, i.e. the effects of corrosion, local damage and structural modifications shall be taken into account.
5.2.5.2 If the allowable deck load is based on load charts, these shall clearly state limitations and/or
conditions with respect to the number of loads, spacing between loads and number of simultaneously acting

loads. It shall also be clarified whether the stated capacities include or exclude dynamic loads and whether any
design/load factors are included or not. Applied load and material factors shall be specified.
Guidance note:
The approved load chart should be used with care, especially for heavy objects (> 500 tonnes). For highly loaded
barges, separate analyses/calculations are recommended to verify the local deck strength.
5.2.6 Barge documentation

5.2.6.1 A general description of the barge systems shall be presented. Ballast and towing equipment/systems
shall be described in detail.
5.2.6.2 The following main particulars should as a minimum be described:
object particulars
name, signal letters, owners and port of registry of barge
draught during towing
stability properties for intact and damaged conditions
specification of anchoring and mooring equipment
the class of the barge (if any), length, breadth, depth and year of build, etc.
5.2.6.3 The following main drawings should normally be presented:

general arrangement
load charts if applied
midship section, longitudinal section and other plans for a structural strength evaluation if such evaluation
is found necessary
drawings showing the arrangement and scantlings of towing brackets, bollards and fairleads
the main and emergency towing arrangements
recovering arrangement.
5.3 Multi-barges
5.3.1 Application
5.3.1.1 This section applies to transport of heavy objects on multiple barges (or other multiple vessels).
5.3.1.2 The requirements in [4.5] generally apply for multi-barge (vessel) transports.
5.3.2 Vessels
5.3.2.1 Each of the vessels (barges) shall comply with the requirements stipulated in [5.1] ([5.2]).
5.3.3 Ballasting systems

5.3.3.1 The ballasting system on each vessel should be capable of redistributing loads due to the flooding of
any one vessel compartment.
5.3.3.2 Spare parts (blind flanges, leak mats, welding equipment, etc) should be available on board the vessel
in case of leakage. Regular inspections of the air pressure and water level in the vessel tanks should preferably
be carried out during the transportation.

5.3.4.1 The multi-barge damage stability requirements in DNV-OS-H101, Sec.5 B400 are generally applicable
for all types of multiple vessel transports.
5.3.5 Design considerations and analysis

5.3.5.1 The barge ballasting condition should be optimised to ensure a favourable load distribution in the
barges and the transported object.
5.3.5.2 The strength of local support points in the grillage and transported object shall be verified. See also
[5.3.6] and [5.3.7].
5.3.5.3 An adequate analysis shall be conducted in order to accurately assess the support loads acting on the
individual barge (vessel) supports.

Guidance note:
An advanced integrated analysis including the object and vessels and taking proper account of the barges individual
responses is normally required.
5.3.5.4 Accidental load cases should include the collapse of one arbitrary grillage support element unless such
cases are found irrelevant based on a risk assessment.
Guidance note:
By grillage support element is meant stiffeners, plate fields, girders etc that may be damaged during the operation.
Elements exposed may be identified from relevant accident scenarios. The collapse of an element may be considered
by neglecting the element in the structural design analysis.
5.3.5.5 Force distributions and deflections in the transported object and barges (vessels) shall be determined
and considered in the design calculations. See also DNV-OS-H102 Sec.4 A800.
5.3.5.6 The seafastening structures shall be sufficiently flexible as to accommodate the relative deflections and
avoid overstressing the transport object or barges.
5.3.6 Skew loads

5.3.6.1 Skew loads are loads due to fabrication and operation tolerances, offset, inaccuracy, etc, and shall be
considered for the transported object, barge supports, etc.
5.3.6.2 The following skew load effects should be considered:
fabrication tolerances for the transported object and barge supports

fabrication tolerances for the barges
vertical offset of the transported object for each support condition
barge heel and trim
movement of the barge centre of buoyancy, gravity and flotation relative to the draught and ballast
configuration
inaccurate positioning of barges relative to the transported object's supports
deformation of the transported object and barges, including the possible introduction of horizontal loads
other relevant effects.
5.3.7 Barge supports

5.3.7.1 The flexible support system (crushing tubes, lead plates, shock absorbers, wedge arrangement, etc)
shall have sufficient capacity to account for the deflections of the deck and barges during transportation
conditions.
5.3.7.2 The flexible support system shall be designed according to a fail-to-safe philosophy, i.e. the supports
shall resist overloading without total collapse.
5.3.7.3 To avoid progressive deflections due to dynamic loading of the supports, a fall back securing
arrangement should be considered, see also [5.3.5.6].
5.4 Ships
5.4.1 General
5.4.1.1 This section applies to towing of ship's hulls or ships including demolition towages and, as appropriate,
towages of FPSOs.
Guidance note:
It is recognised that all ships are different and that particular problems which may exist for the ship(s) in question may
require special solutions/arrangements to fulfil the general requirements for towed objects in [5.1]. This section
provides guidance and requirements for such possible solutions/arrangements.
5.4.2 Manning
5.4.2.1 See [5.1.4] for guidance and requirements.
5.4.2.2 Passenger ships and ro-ro ships will generally only be approved for towage if the tow is manned and
will permit early intervention in the event of any problems.

5.4.3 Stability, seaworthiness and structural strength

5.4.3.1 The general stability, seaworthiness and structural strength requirements are given in [5.1.2] and
[5.1.3].
Guidance note:
For ships that have a valid class with a recognised classification society, and possess a current Load Line or Load Line
Exemption Certificate, the general requirements referred to should suffice. However, for ships with (significant)
damage and/or without valid certificates, additional assessments are required in order to verify that the structural
strength and watertight integrity of the tow are acceptable for the intended voyage. In this case, one or more of the
following mitigating actions are required:
a) An extended, in-depth survey of the vessel structure involving one or more specialist surveyor(s). Facilities for a
close-up survey of inaccessible parts of the hull structure may be required.
b) Thickness determination (gauging) of specified areas of the vessel structure. This survey may be in limited areas
or extend over large parts of the hull structure. Such surveys should be carried out by a reputable independent
company. An existing survey report may be acceptable provided it is not more than 1 year old and there is no
evidence of damage or significant deterioration since that date.
c) Review of scantling drawings approved by a classification society.
d) Calculations to show that the structural strength of particular local areas of the vessel is adequate. The extent of
the calculation required to be determined by the results of the surveys and document/drawing review.
The towage of any vessel which is damaged below the waterline, is suspected of being damaged below the waterline
or has suffered other damage or deterioration which could affect the structural strength is normally not acceptable
unless a survey and calculations clearly show that the vessel's strength and watertight integrity are satisfactory for the
intended towage.
5.4.3.2 Should any doubt exist as to the ability of the ship to complete the proposed towage after all possible
surveys and calculations have been undertaken, a dry dock survey of the ship shall be conducted and repairs
and/or temporary strengthening should be carried out as found necessary.
5.4.3.3 Any heavy fuel oil within the vessel's tanks must be identified and shall be minimized where possible.
In the event of heavy fuel oil being carried, possible limitations on entry to ports of refuge and ports of shelter
shall be noted and taken into account in the towage procedures.
Guidance note:
To minimize the risk of pollution, the requirements of the IMO MSC/Circ.884, paragraph 13.19, should be taken into
account as far as is practical.
5.4.4 Towing and navigation equipment

5.4.4.1 The towing equipment on the ship shall generally comply with the requirements stipulated in [4.2.4],
[4.2.9], [4.2.10] and [4.2.11].
5.4.4.2 Non-standard solutions/arrangements for the towing equipment on the ship may be acceptable if
adequate strength, redundancy and functionality are documented.
Guidance note:
Each ship towage is unique and it is therefore not possible to specify in detail in this Standard the connection
equipment to be used and how it is to be attached in every case. The criticality of (minor) damage to the towed object
and the time available for making the arrangement may/should be considered.
Unless the ship has been fitted with proper towing brackets or the anchor chain and windlass are used, it may be
necessary to utilise attachments such as mooring bitts to connect to the tow. If necessary, reinforcements should be
fitted to achieve the required capacity, otherwise alternative arrangements must be made.
The configuration of the attachments to the tow may be one of the following depending on the circumstances and
equipment available:
a) chain bridle with bridle leg from each side of the bow
b) single chain from centre line location or forward fairlead
c) anchor chain(s) from ships hawse pipe(s)
d) single continuous chain with the ends extending out from each bow
e) single continuous chain, or chain and wire combination, around a part of the, or the whole, ship superstructure.
Chain chafing may occur when unsuitable fairleads have to be used or the tow yaws significantly. In these cases, an
oversized chain should be provided.
A bridle is most suitable for tows which have a wide bow. In any event, the angle at the apex of the bridle should not
exceed 60. A triangle plate, delta plate or towing ring should be fitted at the apex of the bridle. For tows which have
a sharp bow configuration, a single chain pennant passing through a bow centre line or forward fairlead may be
preferred.

If deemed appropriate an anchor chain from the tow may be used after removal of the associated anchor. The condition
and capacity of the chain should be duly assessed. If such a method is utilised, appropriate safety measures should be
implemented as follows:
a)
b)
c)
d)
windlass in gear
windlass brake applied
chain claw or stopper deployed
back-up wire to connect the chain to the base of the windlass or other suitable securing point.
A single chain passing through one side fairlead, around a strongpoint such as the windlass base and out of a fairlead
on the other side may be acceptable. An alternative arrangement may consist of a single chain passing up one hawse
pipe and out of the other. In either case, the outboard ends should be made up into a bridle. Each leg should have
preventers on the inboard side to stop the chain from sliding. The arrangement should not interfere with the vessels
emergency anchoring arrangements.
Where mooring bitts are utilised to secure the chain to the tow, and in order to ensure that the towing arrangement is
securely anchored on the vessel and does not slip on the bitts, the chain should be backed-up to further bitts abaft the
main connection points using suitable wire pennants locked into position with clips. If such an arrangement is used,
then the first bitts used must have the required ultimate capacity, unless positive load-sharing can be achieved. Bitts
and fairleads should be capped with welded bars or plates of sufficient strength to prevent equipment jumping off or
out of the arrangement.
5.4.4.3 See [5.1.5] for guidance and requirements for navigation equipment.
5.4.5 Securing of rudder and propeller

5.4.5.1 The rudder must be secured in a centreline position before the start of the towing operation. The
adequate strength of the securing arrangement should be documented.
5.4.5.2 When propellers are not allowed to free-wheel, the shafts should be locked by an installed shaft-locking
device or other suitable method. The adequate strength of the locking arrangement should be documented.
5.4.5.3 If propellers are allowed to free-wheel, propulsion machinery must be disconnected from the shafts or
adequate lubrication provided. The stern gland on the shaft will normally be water-lubricated. Provision for this
must be made while at the same time ensuring that the water does not flood the space.
5.4.6 Anchoring and mooring equipment

5.4.6.1 The general requirements for anchoring equipment are given in [5.1.7].
5.4.6.2 Anchor cables shall be properly secured with the windlass brake applied. Any additional chain stopper
arrangements that are fitted shall be utilized or, alternatively, removable preventer wires shall be deployed.
5.4.6.3 Spurling pipes into chain lockers on un-manned tows should be made watertight using foam plugs or
some other satisfactory method.
5.4.7 Loose equipment and cargo

5.4.7.1 Every effort shall be made to limit the carriage of any loose deck equipment to an absolute minimum.
Where equipment must be carried on an exposed deck, it shall be protected and secured against movement
using welded brackets, chains or wires. Equipment in other areas shall also be secured.
5.4.7.2 In general, all equipment shall be secured to meet the appropriate requirements relating to motion (see
[3.2]) and seafastenings of loose items designed in accordance with [3.5.9].
5.4.7.3 A towed ship should not normally carry manifested cargo unless the tow is manned and is fully classed
by a classification society, including the possession of a current International Load Line Certificate.
Guidance note:
If cargo is carried, the following guidance applies:
a) International Load Line Regulations should be strictly followed.
b) A cargo plan should be provided/made.
c) The cargo should be loaded making proper allowances for load distribution both during loading and for the
duration and route of the towage. Longitudinal strength requirements should be complied with.
d) Bulk cargoes should be properly trimmed to prevent shifting in a seaway. Shifting boards or other preventative
methods should be utilised where appropriate.
e) All other cargoes should be secured in accordance with [3.5].

f)
Particular attention should be paid to the securing of scrap steel, which if carried should be properly seafastened.
If carried in a hold, it should not be treated as a bulk cargo.
5.4.8 Towage of floating production, storage and offload vessels

5.4.8.1 The guidelines and requirements in this sub-section [5.3] generally apply to the towage of FPSOs, and
similar large vessels.
5.4.8.2 For FPSOs, the following aspects must be given special consideration:
structural limitations including fatigue during tow

tow routing and tug selection
directional stability of tow (fish tailing)
optimal ballast condition and trim for the tow force/stability/hull beam strength
adequate towing equipment considering high freeboard, etc.
use of the FPSOs thrusters, if applicable
planned manning and requirements to certification
how to fulfil emergency anchor equipment requirements
need for temporary/emergency moorings.
Guidance note:
Further guidance may be found in 0030/ND, section 21.
5.5 Self-floating objects

5.5.1 Application
5.5.1.1 This section applies to the towing of objects such as gravity base structures, jacket substructures,
offshore towers, etc supported by their own buoyancy and pushed/pulled by tugs.
Guidance note:
For towing gravity base structures, additional guidance may be found in 0015/ND, sections 8 and 11.
5.5.1.2 The requirements for towed objects in [5.1] generally apply.

5.5.2.1 See DNV-OS-H101, Sec.5 C for requirements for the stability of self-floating objects.
Guidance note 1:
Note that a GM < 1.0 m could be acceptable provided the stability range is adequate and any possible dynamic effects,
see DNV-OS-H101, Sec.5 D200, are duly considered.
Guidance note 2:
In special circumstances, the damage stability requirements may be relaxed for some types of structures. See 0030/
ND section 10.7 for further guidance.
5.5.3 Buoyancy
5.5.3.1 The buoyancy of the self-floating object shall be estimated on the basis of an accurate geometric model.
The buoyancy shall be estimated for all relevant draughts. The position of the centre of buoyancy shall be
estimated accordingly.
5.5.3.2 The effect of possible variations in buoyancy shall be considered. See DNV-OS-H102, Sec.4 A200.
5.5.4 Rubber diaphragms

5.5.4.1 Rubber diaphragms shall have sufficient strength to withstand internal and external water head or air
pressure, including loads due to temperature changes after assembly. The rubber diaphragms shall also be
capable of withstanding relevant hydrodynamic drag and inertia forces during towing.
5.5.4.2 Rubber diaphragms should be protected against wear, heat and frost after assembly.

5.5.5 Structural strength

5.5.5.1 The structural strength shall be documented/verified, see [5.1.2].
5.5.5.2 All relevant loads shall be taken into account. See [5.5.6] and [5.5.7] for loads that may be of special
interest for self-floating objects.
5.5.6 Hydrostatic loads

5.5.6.1 Hydrostatic loads due to external water pressure on submerged structures or internal water pressure in
water-filled compartments should be considered.
5.5.6.2 The characteristic hydrostatic loads should be based on the most severe draught or hydrostatic head for
the individual structure or compartment.
5.5.6.3 Buoyant compartments exposed to external water pressure should normally be designed to withstand
hydrostatic loads for all relevant draughts without pressure compensation by means of air pressurisation.
5.5.7 Other loads

5.5.7.1 All other significant loads occurring during the operations should be considered. In particular, the
following effects should be considered during towing:
wave slamming loads

vortex shedding due to aerodynamic and hydrodynamic drag forces
interaction between the towed object and propeller race
increased draught due to interaction between the seabed and towed object
channel effects in narrow passages.
5.5.7.2 Special consideration should be given to the local load effects of slamming, sloshing and increased
weight from water on deck on structures with a low free board.
5.5.7.3 Auxiliary and permanent buoyancy tanks, similar buoyant structures and attachments to the towed
object should be designed to withstand the buoyancy forces presented in [5.5.6], as well as environmental
loads, slamming loads, etc.

Sec.6 Ship transportation Page 56
SECTION 6 SHIP TRANSPORTATION

6.1 General
6.1.1 Application
6.1.1.1 This section applies primarily to sea transportation of special cargoes (see [1.1.1] Guidance note 1) on
deck or in cargo holds of ships, but most of the requirements and guidance are applicable for special cargo sea
transports on any type of manned vessel.
6.1.1.2 Specific requirements and guidance for transportation on HTVs is given in Sec.7.
6.1.1.3 Any recommendations from the class society shall be considered, see also [2.2.3.1].
6.1.2 Planning
6.1.2.1 The planning of ship transportation operations shall comply with the requirements in [2.1].
6.1.2.2 Any changes in the transport vessel schedule or late change of vessel should, if relevant, be considered.
6.1.2.3 If applicable, it should be ensured that other cargoes transported on the vessel will not significantly
increase the risk.
Guidance note:
Other cargoes mean cargoes that are not included in the planned/documented transported object(s). Such cargoes
could increase the risk by:
Possibly causing impact damage to the ship and object if their seafastening is not adequate.
Jeopardizing the ship stability if they are shifted.
Additional handling/re-positioning of object(s) to give space for loading of other cargo.
6.1.2.4 The ship stability shall generally fulfil the relevant class or statutory requirements, see DNV-OS-H101,
Sec.5 A.
6.1.3 Documentation
6.1.3.1 All relevant aspects concerning the ship transport shall be properly documented, see [2.2].
6.2 Design
6.2.1 General
6.2.1.1 See [3.1] for general design requirements.
6.2.2 Motions, accelerations and loads

6.2.2.1 All applicable loads shall be considered, see [3.3].
6.2.2.2 It is recommended that the ship accelerations are calculated by a motion response analysis, see DNVOS-H102, Sec.4 B.
6.2.2.3 Simplified accelerations may be calculated according to DNV Ship Rules, Pt.3 Ch.1 Sec.4 C500 - Deck
cargo units. The following should be taken into account:
a) The factor for active roll damping should not be used.
b) The heavy object (reduced) accelerations consider the normal behaviour of the vessel captain, i.e.
extreme weather conditions are avoided if possible and any extreme vessel motions are reduced by
adequate vessel manoeuvring.
c) The vessel GM influences the transverse accelerations significantly and it should be ensured that it is within
the applied value throughout the transport. As it may be difficult to ensure this, it is recommended that a
conservative value is applied and that a GM < B/13 is normally not considered.
d) Likewise, if not known, the Cb factor shall be chosen conservatively.
e) The part of the DNV Ship Rules that states the simplified accelerations is valid only for ships with a length
L > 100 m.

Guidance note 1:
The formulae in the DNV Ship Rules may be used to find 10-8 probability level accelerations for ships with a length
of less than 100 metres too. However, for these ships, the reduction factors used to find the single transport (heavy
object) accelerations should be multiplied by a factor of FL = 1 + 0.5 (100-L)/50 for 100 m > L > 50 m. For L 50
m the calculated 10-8 accelerations should be applied directly. See [1.3.3] for a definition of the ship length L in this
context.
Guidance note 2:
The transport accelerations indicated in DNV 2.7-3 may be applied in cases where the transport vessel particulars are
not known.
6.2.2.4 The accelerations for deck cargo units should only be used for single transports of limited duration.
Guidance note:
Limited duration normally means maximum of 30 days (TPOP) for world-wide transports. Any sailing time in benign
weather areas could be disregarded. For transports in potentially harsh weather conditions (e.g. NCS outside the
summer season), a maximum of 7 days should be considered. For a TPOP that is greater than indicated, the deck cargo
accelerations should be increased as shown in the table below.
Duration (TPOP)
Word-wide
Harsh conditions
TPOP 7 days
0%
0%
7 days < TPOP 30 days

0%
20%
30 days < TPOP 180 days

20%
35%
TPOP > 180 days

50%
50%
For transports that can seek shelter in the case of forecasted extreme weather conditions and will do so according to
the operation procedure, TPOP 7 days may be applied.
6.2.2.5 For large objects, the effect of rotational inertia should be taken into account.
6.2.2.6 Characteristic loads shall be combined, factored and analysed according to DNV-OS-H102 Sec.4
C300.
Guidance note:
The maximum horizontal acceleration should be combined with both the minimum and maximum vertical
acceleration. Beam and head sea may be treated as two separate load cases. Quartering sea should also be included if
deemed critical for any structural element. (See also IMO Res. A.714(17), Annex 13 regarding allowable angles of
securing devices.) Quartering sea could be included by combining 80% of the horizontal transverse and 60% of the
longitudinal acceleration with both the minimum and maximum vertical acceleration.
6.2.3 Structural design

6.2.3.1 Structural design calculations shall comply with DNV-OS-H102, Sec.5. See also [3.1.3].
6.2.3.2 If applicable, the adequate structural strength of the deck and hatches shall be documented.
Guidance note:
Load-distributing grillage elements may be required to avoid local overloading of deck structures, including hatches.
See [3.4].
6.2.3.3 If cargo is transported on and/or secured to hatches, the adequate strength and functionality of the hatch
connections in both a vertical and horizontal direction shall be documented.
Guidance note:
See DNV Ship Rules, Pt.3 Ch.3 Sec.6E for (DNV GL) Class requirements for hatch covers.
6.2.4 Seafastening including lashing

6.2.4.1 See [3.5] for general requirements for seafastening and grillage.
6.2.4.2 Calculations of characteristic lashing seafastening loads shall take into account the cargo CoG, support
layout, friction and location/direction/stiffness of each lashing. In undetermined seafastening arrangements, the
loads may be calculated based on a quasi-static load distribution combined with an appropriate skew load
factor, see [6.2.4.3].

Guidance note:
The applicable design friction coefficients are listed in [3.5.3.4].
6.2.4.3 Possible skew loads in lashings due to uneven pre-tensioning and length/stiffness variations in
statically undetermined seafastening arrangements shall be taken into account. The design loads for lashings
should be multiplied by a skew load factor not less than 1.5 if skew load effects are not accurately calculated.
Guidance note:
A skew load factor of 1.5 is considered adequate if lashings carrying the same (quasi-static) load component between
them have approximately the same stiffness and similar means of pre-tensioning. If not, conservative assessments
should be conducted to estimate the applicable skew load factor(s).
6.2.4.4 The design resistance for lashings used in seafastening shall not be greater than the MBL divided by
the appropriate material factor according to DNV-OS-H102, Sec.5. The MBL shall not be greater than the
certified MBL with applicable reductions according to [6.2.4.5] and due to the possible effects of wear and tear
and actual use (e.g. twist and temperature).
Guidance note:
The material factors stipulated for fibre ropes may be used also for webbing strops of the same material. For lashings
without a certified MBL, the design resistance may normally be equal to the certified SWL (WLL) multiplied by the
applied LRFD load factor (normally 1.3).
6.2.4.5 Possible reductions in MBL due to bending shall be taken into account.
Guidance note:
Recommendations regarding wire and fibre ropes are given in DNV-OS-H205, [4.1.5].
Regarding chains, the following apply if not properly documented otherwise:
Chains should not be bent around edges with a diameter of less than 4 times the chain diameter. Two times the
chain diameter may be acceptable for up to 90 degree edges.
The effective MBL of doubled chains that are bent more than 90 degrees around connection points should be
reduced as indicated below:
a) Point with diameter equal to or less than 2 times (1.5 times if the bend is 90 degrees or less) the chain pitch
(inside length of links): 50%.
b) Point with diameter equal to or greater than 4 times (3 times if the bend is 90 degrees or less) the chain pitch:
10% (skew load between the two legs included).
c) Point with diameter greater than 2 (1.5) times and less than 4 (3) times the chain pitch: linearly between a)
and b) above.
6.2.4.6 Chain binders, ratchets or turnbuckles shall be adequately tensioned before departure and secured so
that they cannot become slack.
Guidance note:
If synthetic webbing ratchet straps are used, then:
a) D-links and shackles should be used instead of hooks (which can unhook).
b) The straps should be in good condition, with no rips or abrasion damage. They should not have been, or be likely
to be, subject to chemical degradation or excessive sunlight (ultraviolet radiation). Note that different types of
synthetic materials (e.g. nylon and polyester) have very different resistances to acids, alkalis, UV radiation,
ripping and abrasion.
c) There should be no sharp edges to damage the straps, see also [6.2.4.5] above. If sharp edges are avoided by
adding rubber or something similar, the rubber should be properly secured.
d) The fittings should be of the correct shape and size to ensure that the straps are not damaged.
e) Straps should not be knotted or twisted more than 90 degrees unless otherwise indicated by the certification.
6.2.4.7 Steel wire and fibre lashings should be inspected regularly and always after bad weather during the
transport. Re-tensioning shall be done whenever required.

Guidance note:
The above requirement may be waived if it is properly documented that the lashings fulfil their design intention even
if they become slack.
6.2.4.8 Lashing equipment (chains, wires, shackles, turnbuckles, etc) shall have certificates stating their
ultimate capacity (MBL), WLL or SWL.
Guidance note:
Normally a Certificate of Conformity from a recognized manufacturer will be adequate. For equipment delivered
from other manufacturers and/or for critical non-standard equipment the certificate should be issued or endorsed by
a body approved by an IACS member or other recognized certification body.
6.2.4.9 Certificates should be revalidated at intervals of not more than 4 years and identify the equipment to
which they apply.
6.2.4.10 Re-used lashing equipment should be properly inspected before each transport. See also [3.5.10].
6.2.5 Equipment
6.2.5.1 General requirements are given in DNV-OS-H101, Sec.6.
6.3 Operation
6.3.1 Operational aspects
6.3.1.1 General operational requirements are given in [2.3].
Guidance note:
Some of the requirements for towing operations in [4.4] may also be found relevant for ship transports.
6.3.2 Transport procedure

6.3.2.1 A transport procedure shall be prepared and distributed to key personnel. The master shall be briefed
regarding essential information in the transport manual (design limitations, restrictions etc), see also DNV-OSH101, Sec.4 G200.
6.3.2.2 The transport procedure should contain detailed information regarding the:
route
estimated transport time, ETD and ETA
environmental limitations w.r.t. the structural capacity of the object, seafastening, grillage etc.
contingency actions
reporting routines for progress, ETA, status, etc.
cargo and seafastening inspection routines
contact persons, including key personnel at the receiving site, and telephone numbers.
6.3.3 Inspection
6.3.3.1 The seafastening arrangements and cargo should be inspected during the voyage. See also [6.2.4.7].
6.3.3.2 Inspection procedures describing what, when and how to inspect should be developed. Reporting/
recording routines and possible corrective actions should be described.

Sec.7 Heavy transports Page 60
SECTION 7 HEAVY TRANSPORTS

7.1 General
7.1.1 Application
7.1.1.1 This section applies to objects being transported on heavy transport vessels (HTV).
Guidance note:
Some of the requirements may also be applicable for sea transports on other types of vessels. References to this section
in this context have been made where found relevant.
7.1.2 Planning and documentation

7.1.2.1 Planning and documentation shall comply with [2.1] and [2.2].
Guidance note:
Note that weather routing based on modifying the sailing route and/or speed to avoid storms rather than seeking
shelter may be found applicable for HTV transports. Thorough risk assessments should be carried out in order to
establish adequate design conditions in ULS, ALS and FLS. At least the following should be taken into account:
Expected and extreme weather conditions in the sailing route, including the possible size, speed and travelling
direction of storms.
The possibilities for re-routing to avoid storms in all parts of the route.
The risk of black ship or HTV needs to sail at reduced speed due to machinery or other problems.
The transport schedule and (stated) stakeholder acceptance of the transport being delayed.
A conservative assessment of the applicable sailing speeds in different weather conditions.
Restrictions in sailing directions due to heading control if applicable.
The transport procedure should duly reflect the assessment and describe necessary actions by the HTV Master.
7.2 Heavy transport vessel

7.2.1 General
7.2.1.1 General requirements for heavy transport vessel (HTV) are given in DNV-OS-H101, Sec.6 D.
7.2.1.2 All the particulars regarding strength and stability afloat and all systems and equipment should comply
with the requirements of the vessel's classification society.

7.2.2.1 General stability requirements are given in DNV-OS-H101, Sec.5.
7.2.2.2 Adequate stability and spare buoyancy during on- and off-loading shall be documented.
7.2.3 Documentation heading control

7.2.3.1 If the transport is heading controlled, see [2.1.5] and [7.3.3], the redundancy in the propulsion system
shall be adequately documented.
7.3 Design
7.3.1 General
7.3.1.1 See [3.1] general requirements for design basis.
7.3.2 Motions during transit

7.3.2.1 The motions should be determined in accordance with [3.2.1].
7.3.2.2 For HTV transports, the requirements in [3.2.2] shall be especially considered.
7.3.3 Loads and load effects

7.3.3.1 General requirements for loads and load effects are given in [3.3].

7.3.3.2 Heading-controlled transports shall be analysed for design conditions described in [2.1.5]. ALS design
approach and load factors should be selected according to DNV-OS-H102 Sec.5 D200.
7.3.3.3 ULS limiting wave heights for heading-controlled transports shall be established for all wave
directions.
7.3.3.4 Cargo hanging over the sides of the HTV shall be particularly considered for:
wave slamming loads, see [5.5.7]

uplifting
drag loads
influence on motions
influence on stability.
7.3.3.5 If other vessels such as barges are to be transported by the HTV, relevant contingencies on weight shall
be included to account for effects such as residual ballast water, marine growth etc.
7.3.4 Structural design

7.3.4.1 Structural design calculations shall comply with DNV-OS-H102, Sec.5. See also [3.2].
7.3.4.2 The local strength of the transported object and HTV at vertical support points and in way of
seafastening shall always be verified.
7.3.5 Seafastening and grillage

7.3.5.1 The seafastening (and grillage if applicable) design shall be documented, see [3.5].
7.3.5.2 The grillage design (height of supports/cribbing) shall take into account any protruding parts (e.g.
anodes and spud-cans) on the cargo.
Guidance note:
The clearance should be sufficient to account for deflections (e.g. in cribbing) and inaccuracies in measurements.
Normally, at least a nominal clearance of 0.075 m should be provided between the lowest protrusion of the cargo and
the deck of the barge or vessel.
7.3.5.3 Design loading on the seafastening may be reduced by considering relevant friction effects on the
cribbing, see [7.3.6].
7.3.5.4 As a precaution and to prevent the cargo from shifting due to forces and/or vibrations introduced by
hull beam deflection, a minimum seafastening shall be installed.
Guidance note:
If there are no detailed calculations, the minimum seafastening without considering friction for the indicated
characteristic accelerations in the table below may normally be considered adequate. Note that this is the minimum
seafastening to be considered if the (calculated) transport accelerations minus any friction effect give less
acceleration/force.
Direction/Weight
W < 1000 t
1000 t W < 5000 t 5000 t W < 20000 t 20000 t W < 40000 t
W 40000 t
Transverse
0.15 g
Linear
0.10 g
Linear
0.05 g
Longitudinal
0.10 g
Linear
0.05 g
Linear
0.03 g
Waiving the minimum seafastening requirement may be considered if the effect of vibrations and hull beam
deflections could be proven to be insignificant.
7.3.6 Cribbing
7.3.6.1 The maximum cribbing loads shall be calculated. Static and dynamic loads in addition to global
deflections of the cargo and vessel shall be considered.
7.3.6.2 The size of the cribbing shall be adequate to account for possible inaccuracies in the positioning of
cargo, placement of guides, etc.
7.3.6.3 The placing and width of the cribbing shall be such that no local overloading of the cargo or vessel will
occur.
7.3.6.4 The cribbing strength and deformation characteristics shall be adequate for the intended load bearing
and load spreading.

7.3.6.5 If not documented otherwise, the dynamic design loading on soft wood cribbing should in ULS be a
maximum of 2.0 MPa. Maximum mean loading in an area of 10% of the total cribbing area may be considered.
Guidance note:
A higher dynamic loading may be acceptable, but it should then be documented that redistribution of loading is
possible, considering the cargo design loading - including the overturning moment and a maximum cribbing pressure
of 2 MPa. If excessive deformation in the cribbing is acceptable, e.g. if there is only a thin layer of soft wood, a higher
loading than 2 MPa is normally acceptable.
7.3.6.6 The friction on the cribbing shall be considered, see DNV-OS-H102, Sec.4 A600. According to DNVOS-H102, the characteristic friction coefficient shall be documented and a material factor applied to find the
design friction coefficient.
Guidance note:
In the areas and directions where the full friction effect could be mobilized a design friction coefficient of 0.3 may
normally be applied between the wood and steel in the cargo. Any special effects (e.g. wood treatment, type of cargo
surface treatment and risk of oil/lubricant present) that may reduce the friction significantly should be evaluated.
7.3.6.7 Due to low wood shear stiffness and strength, friction forces transverse to the cribbing (soft wood)
boards should only be accounted for if properly documented.
Guidance note:
If no thorough evaluation, including cribbing shear stiffness and seafastening design (stiffness), has been carried out,
the following apply:
a) For cribbing with H (height) 1.5B (breadth), a zero contribution from friction in the transverse cribbing
direction should be considered.
b) For cribbing with H < 1.5B, a contribution from friction in the transverse direction may be considered
(1.5B H)/1.5B 100%.
c) Normally, a 100% contribution from friction may be considered in the longitudinal cribbing direction. However,
see [3.5.3.5].
d) The mean design friction coefficient considered should in any case not exceed 0.2, but see [7.3.6.8] below.
7.3.6.8 If applicable, a reduced vertical load due to the buoyancy of submerged cargo shall be accounted for.
Guidance note:
If there are no detailed calculations (of the buoyancy) effect and a mean design friction coefficient of 0.2 is found
applicable according to sections [7.3.6.6] and [7.3.6.7], the design friction coefficients tabulated below may be used.
If the overhang is greater than 45m no friction should be assumed for any cargo weight.
Overhang/Weight
< 15 m
15 25 m
25 35 m
35 45 m
W < 5000 t
0.1
0.0
0.0
0.0
5000 t W < 10000 t

0.2
0.1
0.0
0.0
10000 t W < 20000 t

0.2
0.2
0.1
0.0
W 20000 t
0.2
0.2
0.2
0.1
For cargoes that weigh less than 1000 t and/or have unusually high potential buoyancy, the possible effect of buoyancy
(and green water, see [3.3.3]) should always be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
7.4 Loading and off-loading

7.4.1 General and application
7.4.1.1 HTVs are normally loaded in a float-on operation or a loadout. Loadout requirements are given in
DNV-OS-H201, Sec.3.
7.4.1.2 DNV-OS-H201, Sec.7 C covers inshore docking, which in general is applicable for HTV float-on
operations. Some complementary requirements relevant for float-on and float-off from HTV are given in this
sub-section. The requirements generally apply to float-off operations as well.
7.4.2 Cargo supports

7.4.2.1 The design of the supports shall take into account possible horizontal loads during the positioning of
the cargo.

7.4.2.2 Wood cribbing (and other floating materials) shall be properly secured to counteract buoyancy
forces.
7.4.2.3 Drawing(s) of the cargo support (e.g. cribbing) lay-out shall be made and both horizontal and vertical
position tolerances shall be defined.
7.4.3 Positioning and guides

7.4.3.1 A primary positioning system (normally tugs) should be capable of ensuring safe navigation and the
positioning of the object close to the HTV, where the secondary positioning system could be connected.
7.4.3.2 The secondary positioning system should ensure the accurate and well-controlled positioning of the
object above the HTV.
Guidance note:
It should be documented that the positioning could take place without unintended contact with the HTV including any
items on the HTV deck, and without loads exceeding the capability of positioning guides. Environmental effects
should be considered. Varying wind and current may be of especially significant importance.
7.4.3.3 The sufficient capacity of the secondary positioning system (normally winches) should be documented.
Guidance note:
It is not recommended to include tugs in the secondary positioning system so the pull/push force from tugs should not
be included in the capacity check.
7.4.3.4 The guide posts shall be designed both to withstand maximum loads imposed by winch line loads etc.
and to absorb a relevant amount of energy. See DNV-OS-H101, Sec.6 C for guidance.
7.4.3.5 A conservatively assessed/calculated design load shall be applied for non-redundant (see [7.4.3.7])
guide posts.
7.4.3.6 The guide posts should normally extend 2 metres above the water plane at the deepest draught. The
guide post shall be clearly visible during the float-on/float-off operations.
7.4.3.7 Adequate redundancy and/or contingency procedures covering single failure(s) in the position system
7.4.4 Ballasting and stability

7.4.4.1 General ballast system requirements are given in DNV-OS-H201, Sec.2 B.
7.4.4.2 Step-by-step ballast calculations, including stability verifications shall be presented.
7.5 Operational aspects

7.5.1 General
7.5.1.1 General operational requirements are given in [2.3].
7.5.2 Transport procedure

7.5.2.1 A transport procedure shall be prepared and distributed to key personnel. The master shall be briefed
about essential information in the transport manual (limitations, restrictions etc), see also DNV-OS-H101,
Sec.4 G200.
7.5.2.2 The transport procedure should contain detailed information regarding the:
load-on/load-off locations
route
estimated transport time, ETD and ETA
environmental limitations w.r.t. the structural capacity of the object, seafastening, grillage etc
contingency actions
reporting routines for progress, ETA, status, etc
contact persons and telephone numbers
expected environmental conditions for the intended route for the relevant season
procedures, including procedures during departure and arrival as well as calls at intermediate ports.

7.5.3 Float-on and float-off

7.5.3.1 The float-on/off shall be carried out at locations where the limiting loading criteria are (easily)
obtainable and with adequate bottom clearance in a sufficient area for adequate manoeuvring of the HTV and
transported object.
Guidance note:
If the spare buoyancy of the HTV is considered critical, a location with depth and bottom conditions that could allow
the HTV to be supported at the bottom as a contingency is recommended.
7.5.3.2 A detailed operation procedure should be prepared for the float-on and float-off.
7.5.3.3 Limiting environmental criteria shall be established for the float-on /float-off operation.
Guidance note:
Normally the limiting criteria should be insignificant current, maximum waves/motions as indicated in DNV-OSH201, Sec.7 C400 and a maximum wind speed of 15 knots.
7.5.3.4 The documented minimum nominal clearance between the cargo and top of the cribbing should be 0.5
metres during float-on/float-off. If the effect on the clearance of motions, tolerances and deflections could be
significant, the minimum tolerance should be increased accordingly.
Guidance note:
All possible relative horizontal positions of the object and HTV during float-on/off should be considered. Any
protruding elements on the object and HTV deck should be accounted for.

7.5.4.1 A survey of the loading/unloading site should be performed to ensure a sufficient water depth during
the loading/unloading operation.
7.5.4.2 It shall be confirmed by survey that all supports (cribbing) and guide posts are correctly positioned (and
secured) within defined horizontal and vertical tolerances.
7.5.4.3 The cargo and seafastening should be inspected daily during the voyage.

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OFFSHORE STANDARD

Sea transport operations

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Offshore Standard DNV-OS-H202, October 2015

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Offshore Standard DNV-OS-H202, October 2015

Design requirements ........................................................................................................ 17

Offshore Standard DNV-OS-H202, October 2015

Grillage and seafastening........................................................................................................................ 23

Offshore Standard DNV-OS-H202, October 2015

Offshore Standard DNV-OS-H202, October 2015

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Offshore Standard DNV-OS-H202, October 2015

1.1.2 Complementary standards

1.1.3 Conditions and alternative methods

Numbering in some published DNV-H standards

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Offshore Standard DNV-OS-H202, October 2015

1.2.2 Normative references

1.2.3 Informative references

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Offshore Standard DNV-OS-H202, October 2015

item with a capacity or property certified by a recognised body

towing in sheltered waters

1.3.3 Abbreviations and symbols

Offshore Standard DNV-OS-H202, October 2015

Table 1-6 Abbreviations and symbols (Continued)

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Offshore Standard DNV-OS-H202, October 2015

SECTION 2 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

2.1.2 Operation period

2.1.3 Weather restricted transports

2.1.4 Unrestricted transports

2.1.5 Heading controlled transports

Offshore Standard DNV-OS-H202, October 2015

Regarding FLS see [3.4].

Applicable Hs in ULS, as % of design sea state

2 or more independent main engines

Offshore Standard DNV-OS-H202, October 2015

2.2.2 Design documentation

2.2.3 Equipment, fabrication and vessels

2.2.4 Operation procedures

2.3 Operational aspects

Offshore Standard DNV-OS-H202, October 2015

2.3.2 Weather conditions

2.3.3 Operational restrictions

weather conditions, see [2.3.2]

2.3.4 Ports of shelter

2.3.5 Air draught

2.3.6 Organisation and personnel

Offshore Standard DNV-OS-H202, October 2015

2.3.7 Inspections and testing

2.4 River and sheltered area transports

Offshore Standard DNV-OS-H202, October 2015

SECTION 3 DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

3.1.2 Environmental conditions

3.1.3 Strength calculations

3.1.4 Certified properties

Offshore Standard DNV-OS-H202, October 2015

3.1.5 Stability afloat

3.2 Motions and accelerations

3.2.2 Wind heeling and heave-induced roll

3.2.3 Simplified motion criteria for barges

Minimum of L/LNSB and B/BNSB), where:

Offshore Standard DNV-OS-H202, October 2015

Table 3-1 Unrestricted criteria world wide

see [3.2.3.1], [3.2.3.2] and [3.2.3.3] for limitations and assumptions

Notes: See notes to Table 3-1.

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Offshore Standard DNV-OS-H202, October 2015

Notes: See notes to Table 3-1.

3.3 Loads and load effects

3.3.2 Vessel motions and deflections

3.3.3 Cargo overhangs, buoyancy and wave slam /green water

Offshore Standard DNV-OS-H202, October 2015