Class Notations ABS

ÅABS Notations and Symbols – 3 November 2003 (Updated on 11 March 2010)
Overview
The following listing of ABS Classification notations is comprised of the following headers:
Common Notations and Symbols

The notations and symbols contained under this heading may be applicable to any type of vessel or offshore
installation, as indicated by the referenced Rules and Guides (which are mostly available for viewing at
http://www.eagle.org).
These notations and symbols pertain to hull structure, analyses, equipment, machinery, automation, surveys,
etc.
Other Notations for Specific Applications – Bulk Carrier, Container Carrier, Offshore
Services, etc.
Following the common notations, are groupings by type of vessel or offshore service. The notations
contained under the heading for each vessel type are applicable only to that type of vessel.
The types of vessels are organized starting with those that are covered by the Rules for Building and
Classing Steel Vessels and associated Guides specific to the vessel type and are followed by those
vessels covered by the following Rules and Guides:
Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels Under 90 meters (295 feet) in Length
Guide for Building and Classing High Speed Craft
Guide for Building and Classing High Speed Naval Craft
Guide for Building and Classing Motor Pleasure Yachts
Rules for Building and Classing Steel Barges
Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels for Service on Rivers and Intracoastal Waterways
Rules for Building and Classing Underwater Vehicles, Systems and Hyperbaric Facilities
Offshore Service notations, as specified within the referenced Offshore Rules and Guides.
The example class notations given under “Remarks” on each page are intended only to show the usage of the
particular notation on that page and are not necessarily all-inclusive for the particular application/services
shown.
Revisions
The following Table lists newly-added Class Notations, the category under which they fall in the list and the
date they were added:
Notation Category Date Added
Ice Strengthening Common Notations and Symbols 13 Feb. 2004
RCM (PROP) Common Notations and Symbols
RCM (FIRE) Common Notations and Symbols
RCM (CARGO) Common Notations and Symbols
RCM (MACH) Common Notations and Symbols
RCM (CDS) Common Notations and Symbols
(LNG) R Liquefied Gas Carriers
RB Steel Vessels < 90 m (295 ft)
Commercial Yachting Service Yachting Service
Offshore Racing Yacht Yachting Service
Deck Decompression Chamber Underwater Vehicles and Systems
Dive Control Station Underwater Vehicles and Systems
Handling System Underwater Vehicles and Systems
Remote Operated Vehicle Underwater Vehicles and Systems
Offshore Installation Offshore Services
Liftboat Offshore Services
Compressed Natural Gas Carrier Compressed Natural Gas Carriers 17 Oct. 2005
TCM Common Notations and Symbols
PARR-N Container Carriers
PARR-C1 Container Carriers
PARR-C2 Container Carriers
Liquefied Natural Gas Carrier Liquefied Gas Carriers
RELIQ Liquefied Gas Carriers
GCU Liquefied Gas Carriers
DFGT Liquefied Gas Carriers
Liquefied Petroleum Gas Carrier with Liquefied Gas Carriers 25 Jan. 2007
Type-A Independent Tanks
MAN Common Notations and Symbols
MAN-A Common Notations and Symbols
CCO-HR(TEMP) Common Notations and Symbols
CCO-HR(TEMP)+ Common Notations and Symbols

(Oil Recovery Capability Class 1) Steel Vessels < 90 m (295 ft) 25 Jan. 2007 (cont.)
(Oil Recovery Capability Class 2) Steel Vessels < 90 m (295 ft)
CSR, AB-CM Common Structural Rules for Tankers and
Bulk Carriers
CPS Common Notations and Symbols
PMA Bulk Carriers and Oil Carriers
PMA+ Bulk Carriers and Oil Carriers
Annual Survey Common Notations and Symbols 21 Jan. 2010
ENVIRO Common Notations and Symbols
ENVIRO+ Common Notations and Symbols
GP Common Notations and Symbols
HELIDK Common Notations and Symbols
HELIDK(SRF) Common Notations and Symbols
HIMP Common Notations and Symbols
HS Common Notations and Symbols
MLC-ACCOM Common Notations and Symbols
MOVDK Common Notations and Symbols
Ice Class PC1 Common Notations and Symbols
UWILD Common Notations and Symbols
GRAB (XX tonnes) Bulk Carriers
PMA Bulk Carriers and Oil Carriers
BLU Oil Carriers, Liquefied Gas Carriers, and
Chemical Carriers
SLU Oil Carriers, Liquefied Gas Carriers, and
Chemical Carriers
Oil Carrier, Storage Service Oil Carriers
Oil Storage Service Oil Carriers
Liquefied Gas Carrier with Liquefied Gas Carriers
Independent Tanks
(Operational Area) Domestic Service Steel Vessels < 90 m (295 ft)

HAB(WB) Steel Vessels < 90 m (295 ft) 21 Jan. 2010 (cont.)
HAB+(WB) Steel Vessels < 90 m (295 ft)
COMF(Y) Yachting Service
COMF+(Y) Yachting Service
VEC Barges – Ocean Services
VEC-L Barges – Ocean Services
Passenger Submersible Underwater Vehicles and Systems
Accommodation Service Offshore Services
Cable Laying Service Offshore Services
CDS (N) Offshore Services
(CI) Offshore Services
Column-Stabilized Unit Offshore Services
(Column-Stabilized) Offshore Services
Construction and Maintenance Offshore Services
Service
Crane Service Offshore Services
(Disconnectable-R (from site to Offshore Services
designated port))
Drilling Tender Offshore Services
Drillship Offshore Services
DLA (S design return period) site Offshore Services
definition
FL(number of years) in (site of Offshore Services
installation)
À EXP Offshore Services
À IMP Offshore Services
À IMP-EXP Offshore Services
(N) Offshore Services
Pipe Laying Service Offshore Services
Restricted Service Offshore Services
RFL(number of years), Year in (site Offshore Services
of Installation)
Self-Elevating Unit Offshore Services
SFA(years) Offshore Services
(Ship-Type) Offshore Services
(SPAR) Offshore Services
(TLP) Offshore Services

WT-READY Offshore Services 11 Mar. 2010
WT-TEMP Offshore Services
Well Test Service Offshore Services
ENVIRO-OS Offshore Services
ENVIRO-OS+ Offshore Services
SYMBOL
DESCRIPTION
The Maltese Cross, À, symbol is assigned to vessels and offshore units for which the hull construction
and/or the manufacture of its machinery and components and any associated required testing, as
applicable, is carried out under ABS survey. For a vessel or offshore unit constructed under survey of
another recognized Classification Society or Authority, the Maltese Cross, À, symbol will be omitted
from the hull and/or machinery classification notations.
REFERENCES
1-1-3/1 and 1-1-3/9 of Rules for Conditions of Classification (Part 1)
1-1-3/1 and 1-1-3/7 of Rules for Conditions of Classification – Offshore Units and Structures (Part 1)
1-1-3/1 and 1-1-3/5 of Guide for Building and Classing High Speed Naval Craft
REMARKS
Classification symbol whose meaning is the same within all ABS Rules and Guides.
Example:
Vessels have been built under Vessels have not been built under
ABS survey ABS survey
Hull and Equipment: À A1 A1
Machinery, boiler and systems À AMS AMS
Shipboard automation systems À ACCU ACCU
SYMBOLS
À A1
DESCRIPTION
A1 is a classification symbol that, together with the Maltese Cross À symbol, indicates compliance
with the Hull requirements of the ABS Rules or their equivalent for unrestricted ocean service and
survey by ABS during construction of the vessel. The symbols À A1 may be followed by appropriate
vessel type notation such as Oil Carrier, Bulk Carrier, Fuel Oil Carrier, Ore Carrier,
Passenger Vessel, Vehicle Carrier, Container Carrier, Towing Vessel, Refrigerated
Cargo Carrier, Liquefied Gas Carrier, etc. The Maltese Cross À symbol will be omitted for
vessels that have not been built under survey by ABS.
REFERENCES
1-1-3/1 and 1-1-3/9 of Rules for Conditions of Classification (Part 1)
1-1-3/1 and 1-1-3/7 of Rules for Conditions of Classification – Offshore Units and Structures (Part 1)
1-1-3/1 and 1-1-3/5 of Guide for Building and Classing High Speed Naval Craft
REMARKS
Classification symbols whose meaning is the same within all ABS Rules and Guides as regards to
indicating compliance with hull/structural related requirements.
SYMBOL
DESCRIPTION
Circle E, Á, is a classification symbol that signifies that the equipment of anchors and chain cables of
the vessel is in compliance with the requirements of the Rules, or with the requirements
corresponding to the service limitations noted in the vessel’s classification which have been
specifically approved for the particular service. Compliance with Á requirements is a condition of
classification for vessels, for which the equipment number (EN) calculated in accordance with
3-5-1/3.1 of the ABS Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels is equal to or greater than 205.
Vessels intended for towing operation or vessels for which EN is less than 205 are not required to
have Á as a condition of classification. (See 3-5-1/7 of the ABS Rules for Building and Classing
Steel Vessels Under 90 meters (295 feet) in Length.)
REFERENCES
1-1-3/11 of Rules for Conditions of Classification (Part 1)
1-1-3/1.9 of Rules for Conditions of Classification – Offshore Units and Structures (Part 1)
1-1-3/9 of Guide for Building and Classing High Speed Naval Craft
REMARKS
Classification symbol which is applicable for temporary mooring of vessels within a harbor or other
area of sheltered water
Example – À A1, Oil Carrier, Á…

NOTATION
À A1 (special purpose)
DESCRIPTION
The symbols À A1 followed by a Notation of the trade for which specific arrangements and scantlings
have been approved (i.e. Ferry Service, Dredging, Fishing, etc.) and to which the special purpose
vessels have been built to the satisfaction of the ABS Surveyors.
REFERENCES
1-1-3/3 of Rules for Conditions of Classification – Offshore Units and Structures (Part 1)
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Ferry Service…
À A1, Dredging…, etc.
NOTATION
À A1 (geographical limitations)
DESCRIPTION
The symbols À A1 followed by a notation of the service limitations is to be assigned to vessels, which
have been built to the satisfaction of ABS Surveyors to specific requirements for restricted service,
which have been approved by the ABS Classification Committee for the particular service. (e.g. Gulf
of Mexico, Philippine Inter-Island Service, etc.)
REFERENCES
1-1-3/1.9 of Rules for Conditions of Classification – Offshore Units and Structures (Part 1)
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Ferry, Inter-Island Service, Á…
NOTATION
À AMS
DESCRIPTION
AMS is a classification notation that, together with the Maltese Cross À symbol, indicates that a
vessel’s machinery, boilers and systems have been constructed and installed under ABS survey in
accordance with the requirements of the ABS Rules. The À AMS notation is intended for all new
construction of ABS classed self-propelled vessels and offshore units.
REFERENCES
1-1-3/25 of Rules for Conditions of Classification – Offshore Units and Structures (Part 1)
REMARKS
Classification notation whose meaning is the same within all ABS Rules and Guides as regards to
indicating compliance with machinery related requirements on self-propelled vessels and offshore
units.
Example – À A1, Oil Carrier, Á, À AMS…

NOTATION
AMS
DESCRIPTION
The AMS notation, without the Maltese Cross À symbol, is assigned to self-propelled vessels and
offshore units for which the machinery, boilers and systems have not been constructed and installed
under ABS survey, but are found satisfactory with regard to ABS requirements.
REFERENCES
REMARKS
Classification notation whose meaning is the same within all ABS Rules and Guides as regards to
indicating compliance with machinery related requirements on self-propelled vessels and offshore
units.
Example – A1, Oil Carrier, Á, AMS…

NOTATION
À ACC
DESCRIPTION
Automatic Centralized Control (ACC) – This notation is assigned to a vessel having the means to
control and monitor the propulsion-machinery space from a continuously manned centralized control
and monitoring station installed within or adjacent to, the propulsion machinery space. The Maltese
Cross À symbol signifies that the pertinent automatic or remote control and monitoring systems have
been assembled, tested and installed under ABS survey.
REFERENCES
4-9-3/1 of the Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels
REMARKS
See also À ACCU
Example – À A1, Oil Carrier, Á, À AMS, À ACC…

NOTATION
À ACCU
DESCRIPTION
Automatic Centralized Control Unmanned (ACCU) – This notation is assigned to a vessel having the
means to control and monitor the propulsion-machinery space from the navigation bridge and from a
centralized control and monitoring station installed within or adjacent to, the propulsion machinery
space. The Maltese Cross À symbol signifies that the pertinent automatic or remote control and
monitoring systems have been assembled, tested and installed under ABS survey.
REFERENCES
4-7-1/1 of the Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels Under 90 Meters (295 Feet) in Length
4-9-1/3 of the Guide for Building and Classing High Speed Naval Craft
4/11.1.1 of the Guide for Building and Classing High Speed Craft
Great Lakes Bulk Carries, Aluminum Vessels, Reinforced Plastic Vessels and Motor Pleasure Yachts will also be eligible for
this notation provided the systems and the equipment are in full compliance with the applicable requirements 4-9-4/1 of the
ABS Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels or 4-7-1/1 of the ABS Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels
Under 90 meters (295 feet) in Length.
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Oil Carrier, Á, À AMS, À ACCU…
NOTATION
À ABCU
DESCRIPTION
Automatic Bridge Centralized Control Unmanned (ABCU) – This notation is assigned to a self-
propelled vessel which is fitted with the required automation and remote monitoring and control
systems to enable the propulsion machinery space to be periodically unattended (similar to an ACCU
classed vessel) and the propulsion control to be effected primarily from the navigation bridge. The
Maltese Cross À symbol signifies that the pertinent automatic or remote control and monitoring
systems have been assembled, tested and installed under ABS survey.
REFERENCES
4-9-1/3 of the Guide for Building and Classing High Speed Naval Craft
Aluminum Vessels, Reinforced Plastic Vessels and Motor Pleasure Yachts will also be eligible for this notation provided the
systems and the equipment are in full compliance with the applicable requirements 4-7-1/1 of the ABS Rules for Building
and Classing Steel Vessels Under 90 meters (295 feet) in Length.
REMARKS
This notation was available for unrestricted service large vessels, greater than 90 meters in length,
whose signed contracts were made between owners and shipbuilder until 31 December 1999. After
this date, the ABCU notation was terminated for new construction of these large vessels whose
automation system arrangements are primarily in accordance with the ACCU requirements.
Example – À A1, Offshore Support Vessel, Á, À AMS, À ABCU…

NOTATION
Annual Survey
DESCRIPTION
This notation is assigned to vessels for which all of the requirements of Special Periodical Survey –
Hull, except for tank testing, are required each year for the first four years of each five-year cycle. At
the fifth year, a complete Special Periodical Survey – Hull, including tank testing is required.
REFERENCES
7-2-1/1 of the Rules for Survey After Construction
REMARKS
Example – À A1, HSC, Crewboat, Á, À AMS, Annual Survey…
NOTATION
À APS
DESCRIPTION
This notation is assigned to a self-propelled vessel fitted with athwartship thrusters intended to assist
in the maneuvering of the vessel. The Maltese Cross À symbol signifies that compliance with these
Rules was verified by ABS during construction of the vessel. This includes survey of the machinery at
the manufacturer’s plant (where required), during installation on board the vessel; and during trials.
REFERENCES
4-3-5/1.3.1 of the Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels
Steel Vessels Under 90 meters (295 feet) in Length, Mobile Offshore Drilling Units, Steel Vessels for Service on Rivers and
Intracoastal Waterways, Aluminum Vessels, Reinforced Plastic Vessels, High Speed Naval Craft, High Speed Craft, and
Motor Pleasure Yachts will also be eligible for this notation provided the systems and the equipment are in full compliance
with the applicable requirements 4-3-5/1.3.1 of the ABS Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Container Carrier, Á, À AMS, À ACCU, À APS, SH, SHCM…
NOTATION
AT(hull girder component + additional thickness)
DESCRIPTION
Additional Thickness (AT) – This notation is assigned to all conventional type vessels and to floating
production installations where the vessel or installation incorporates additional plate thickness above
the required scantlings. The notation will be followed by the description of the major hull girder
component(s) that has the additional thickness. It will also include a number to indicate the
magnitude of the additional thickness (rounded to the nearest 0.5 mm) that has been applied, i.e.,
AT(DK+0.5).
The major structural components are defined as follows:
DK Upper deck (including stringer plate)
BS Bottom shell (including bilge)
IB Inner-bottom
SS Side shell (including shear strake)
IS Inner skin (including “hopper” sloping plating)
LB Longitudinal bulkheads other than the inner skin
TB Transverse Bulkhead
REFERENCES
1-1-2/5.13 of the Guide for Building and Classing Floating Production Installations
Steel Vessels will also be eligible for this notation for vessels incorporating additional plate thicknesses above the required
scantlings.
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Floating Offshore Installation, À AMS, AT(BS+0.5)…
NOTATION
CCO-HR(TEMP)
CCO-HR(TEMP)+
DESCRIPTION
These notations are assigned to a vessels complying with the requirements specified in the ABS Guide
for Vessels Operating in Low Temperature Environments.
CCO-HR(TEMP) – This notation is assigned to a vessel designed, built and surveyed in accordance
with requirements in Sections 2 through 6 of the ABS Guide for Vessels Operating in Low Temperature
Environments (which addresses the requirements for materials, welds and coatings, hull construction
and equipment, vessel systems and machinery, safety systems and additional requirements for specific
vessel types intended to operate in a low temperature environment). The emergency service hours
(18 or 36) is listed as HR. The design service temperature for which the vessel is designed is listed in
the parentheses.
CCO-HR(TEMP)+ – This notation is assigned to a vessel designed, built and surveyed in accordance
with requirements for CCO-HR(TEMP) along with placement of additional equipment onboard for the
crew and specific low temperature environment training for the crew as per Sections 8 and 9 of the
ABS Guide for Vessels Operating in Low Temperature Environments. The emergency service hours
(18 or 36) is listed as HR. The design service temperature for which the vessel is designed is listed in
the parentheses.
REFERENCES
Subsection 1/3 of the Guide for Vessels Operating in Low Temperature Environments
REMARKS
See Part 6, Chapter 1 of the Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels for the notations for ice
strengthening and their requirements.
Example – À A1, Oil Carrier, Ice Class A5, Á, À AMS, À ACCU, CCO-18(-30°C)…
À A1, Oil Carrier, Ice Class A5, Á, À AMS, À ACCU, CCO-36(-30°C)+…
NOTATION
CPS
DESCRIPTION
Coating Performance Standard (CPS) – This notation signifies that the protective coatings used on a
vessel’s tanks and void spaces comply with the ABS Guide for the Class Notation Coating Performance
Standard (CPS). The Guide illustrates the application of the criteria contained in the following:
i) SOLAS Regulation Chapter II-1/3-2, Consolidated Edition 2004, amended by IMO
Resolution MSC.216(82)
ii) IMO Resolution MSC.215(82) Performance Standard for Protective Coatings for Dedicated
Seawater Ballast Tanks in All Types of Ships and Double-Side Skin Spaces of Bulk Carriers
(IMO PSPC)
iii) IACS PR No. 34, IACS Procedural Requirement on Application of the IMO Performance
Standard for Protective Coatings (PSPC), Resolution MSC.215(82), under IACS Common
Structural Rules for Bulk Carriers and Oil Tankers
iv) IACS UI SC223, IACS Unified Interpretation For Application of SOLAS Regulation II-1/3-2
Performance Standard for Protective Coatings(PSPC) for Dedicated Seawater Ballast Tanks
in All Types of Ships and Double-side Skin Spaces of Bulk Carriers, adopted by Resolution
MSC.215(82) to vessels other than CSR for Bulk Carriers and Oil Tankers
v) IACS UR Z17, IACS Procedural Requirements for Service Suppliers
vi) IACS Common Structural Rules for Bulk Carriers and Oil Tankers (see ABS Steel Vessel
Rules Part 5B and Part 5A)
The Guide is mandatory for the Common Structural Rules (CSR) for Bulk Carriers and Oil Tankers
(see ABS Steel Vessel Rules Part 5B and Part 5A). After 8 December 2006, it may also be optionally
applied to any non-CSR vessel prior to the IMO effective date of 1 July 2008. In addition, this Guide
may be optionally applied to CSR vessels constructed prior to the effective date of 8 December 2006.
REFERENCES
1.3 of the Guide for the Class Notation Coating Performance Standard (CPS)
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Bulk Carrier, BC-B (maximum cargo density: 1.7 tonnes/m3), Á, À AMS, À
ACCU, SH, SHCM, CPS…
NOTATION
CRC
DESCRIPTION
Crane Register Certificate (CRC) – This notation signifies that the vessel’s crane(s) is designed and
constructed in accordance with Chapter 2 of the ABS Guide for Lifting Appliances. A Register of
Lifting Appliances attesting to compliance with the requirements of the above Guide will be issued at
the request of the Owner or builder upon satisfactory completion of plan review, in-plant survey,
installation and testing of the crane to the satisfaction of the attending Surveyor. Alternatively, for
vessels changing class to ABS and having a Register issued by a recognized classification society or
recognized cargo gear association, suitable evidence of previous design review is to be submitted.
REFERENCES
2-1/1 and 2-2/13 of the Guide for Lifting Appliances
REMARKS
ACCU, SH, SHCM, CRC…
NOTATION
À DPS-0
DESCRIPTION
The Dynamic Positioning System notation DPS-0 indicates that a self-propelled (or non-self-
propelled) vessel is fitted with a system of thrusters, positioning instruments and control systems with
a centralized manual position control and automatic heading control to maintain a desired position and
heading at sea without external aid under specified maximum environmental conditions; and that the
systems are in accordance with the applicable requirements of Part 4, Chapter 3 of the ABS Rules for
Building and Classing Steel Vessels. The assigned numeral “0” indicates the degree of redundancy.
The Maltese Cross À symbol signifies that compliance with these Rules was verified by ABS during
construction of the vessel. This includes survey of the machinery at the manufacturer’s plant (where
required), during installation on board the vessel; and during trials.
REFERENCES
4-3-5/1.3.3 and 4-3-5/15.1.1 of the Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels
Steel Vessels Under 90 Meters (295 Feet) in Length, Mobile Offshore Drilling Units, Mobile Offshore Units, Steel Vessels
for Service on Rivers and Intracoastal Waterways, Aluminum Vessels, and Motor Pleasure Yachts will also be eligible for
this notation provided the systems and the equipment are in full compliance with the applicable requirements 4-3-5/1.3.1 of
the ABS Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels
REMARKS
See also À DPS-1, À DPS-2 and À DPS-3
Example – À A1, Oil Carrier, Á, À AMS, À ACCU, À DPS-0…

NOTATION
À DPS-1
DESCRIPTION
propelled) vessel is fitted with a system of thrusters, positioning instruments and control systems
capable of automatically maintaining the position and heading at sea without external aid under a
specified maximum environmental conditions as well as a centralized manual position control with
automatic heading control; and that the systems are in accordance with the applicable requirements of
Part 4, Chapter 3 of the ABS Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels. The assigned numeral
“1” indicates the degree of redundancy. The Maltese Cross À symbol signifies that compliance with
these Rules was verified by ABS during construction of the vessel. This includes survey of the
machinery at the manufacturer’s plant (where required), during installation on board the vessel; and
during trials.
REFERENCES
REMARKS

NOTATION
À DPS-2
DESCRIPTION
capable of automatically maintaining the position and heading at sea without external aid within a
specified operating envelope under specified maximum environmental conditions during and
following any single fault excluding a loss of compartment or compartments; and that the systems are
in accordance with the applicable requirements of Part 4, Chapter 3 of the ABS Rules for Building
and Classing Steel Vessels. The assigned numeral “2” indicates the degree of redundancy. The
Maltese Cross À symbol signifies that compliance with these Rules was verified by ABS during
REFERENCES
REMARKS

NOTATION
À DPS-3
DESCRIPTION
capable of automatically maintaining the position and heading at sea without external aid within a
specified operating envelope under specified maximum environmental conditions during and
following any single fault including a loss of a compartment due to fire flood; and that the systems are
in accordance with the applicable requirements of Part 4, Chapter 3 of the ABS Rules for Building
and Classing Steel Vessels. The assigned numeral “3” indicates the degree of redundancy. The
Maltese Cross À symbol signifies that compliance with these Rules was verified by ABS during
REFERENCES
REMARKS

NOTATION
ENVIRO
ENVIRO+
DESCRIPTION
ENVIRO – This notation is assigned to a vessel complying with the applicable requirements of
Annexes I, II, IV, V, and VI to the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from
Ships, MARPOL 73/78, as amended and associated ABS requirements which influence environmental
protection.
ENVIRO+ – This notation will be assigned to a vessel complying with applicable requirements of the
ENVIRO notation and Annexes I, II, IV, V, and VI to the International Convention for the Prevention
of Pollution from Ships, MARPOL 73/78, as amended and the criteria for environmental protection
related to design characteristics, management and support systems, sea discharges, and air discharges
specified in the Guide for the Environmental Protection Notation for Vessels.
These notations supersede the ES and ES2020 notations for vessels contracted for construction after
the effective date of the Guide for the Environmental Protection Notation for Vessels.
REFERENCES
1/3.1 and 1/3.3 of the Guide for the Environmental Protection Notation for Vessels
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Container Carrier, Á, À AMS, À ACCU, ENVIRO…
À A1, Container Carrier, Á, À AMS, À ACCU, ENVIRO+…
NOTATION
ESP
ESDC
DESCRIPTION
Enhanced Survey Program (ESP) – This notation is assigned to Oil Carriers, Bulk Carriers, Ore
Carriers, Combination Carriers or Chemical Tankers, all in salt-water services, that are in compliance
with the specified survey requirements for the ESP notation in the ABS Rules for Survey After
Construction.
Expanded Survey Program for General Dry Cargo Vessels (ESDC) – This notation is assigned to
General Dry Cargo Vessels, as defined in 7-1-1/3.33 of the ABS Rules for Survey After Construction,
in salt-water services, that are in compliance with the specified survey requirements for the ESDC
notation.
REFERENCES
Section 7-3-2 of the Rules for Survey After Construction
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Oil Carrier, Á, À AMS, À ACCU, SH, SHCM, ESP…
À A1, Á, À AMS, À ACCU, SH, SHCM, ESDC…
NOTATION
FL (years)
DESCRIPTION
Fatigue Life (FL (years)) – This is a notation that denotes a vessel’s design fatigue life is in excess
of the minimum fatigue life of 20 years. This notation is eligible for vessels that receive the SafeHull
notation provided the excess design fatigue life is verified to be in compliance with the criteria in
Appendix 1 of the appropriate Chapter of Part 5C of the ABS Rules for Building and Classing Steel
Vessels addressing Oil or Fuel Oil Carriers, Bulk or Ore Carriers, Combination Carriers or Container
Carriers. The (years) refers to the fatigue life equal to 25 years or more (in 5-year increments) as
specified by the applicant. This notation is also available for Membrane Tank Liquefied Gas Carriers
in accordance with Section 1.2 of the ABS Guide for Building and Classing Membrane Tank LNG
Vessels and also for Liquefied Gas Carriers with Independent Tanks in accordance with 1/1.3 of the
ABS Guide for Building and Classing Liquefied Gas Carriers with Independent Tanks.
REFERENCES
5C-1-1/1.2, 5C-3-1/1.2 and 5C-5-1/1.2 of the Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels
1.2 of the Guide for Building and Classing Membrane Tank LNG Vessels
1/1.3 of the Guide for Building and Classing Liquefied Gas Carriers with Independent Tanks
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Oil Carrier, Á, À AMS, À ACCU, SH, SHCM, FL(30)…
NOTATION
GP
DESCRIPTION
Green Passport (GP) – This notation is applicable to new and existing ships have had the ship details
and Part 1 of the Inventory of their Green Passport prepared and certified to the requirements of this
Guide to the satisfaction of the ABS Surveyors in accordance with the ABS Guide for the Class
Notation Green Passport.
REFERENCES
Subsection 1/4 of the Guide for the Class Notation Green Passport
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Oil Carrier, Á, À AMS, À ACCU, SH, SHCM, GP…
NOTATION
HAB
HAB+
DESCRIPTION
HAB – This notation is assigned to vessels, which are complying with the minimum criteria for crew
accommodations and ambient environment (vibration, noise, indoor climate, and lighting) as included
in the ABS Guide for Crew Habitability on Ships.
HAB+ – This notation is assigned to vessels which are complying with more stringent habitability
criteria with respect to crew accommodation, whole-body vibration and indoor climate included in the
ABS Guide for Crew Habitability on Ships.
REFERENCES
Subsection 1/6 of the Guide for Crew Habitability on Ships
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Oil Carrier, Á, À AMS, À ACCU, SH, SHCM, HAB…
À A1, Oil Carrier, Á, À AMS, À ACCU, SH, SHCM, HAB+…
NOTATION
HELIDK
HELIDK(SRF)
DESCRIPTION
HELIDK – This notation is assigned to vessels with a helicopter deck intended for landing with no
provision for storage or refueling and complying with Sections 2 and 6 of the ABS Guide for the
Class Notation Helicopter Decks and Facilities (HELIDK and HELIDK(SRF)).
HELIDK(SRF) – This notation is assigned to vessels with a helicopter deck and a helicopter facility
for storage and/or refueling and complying with Sections 2 through 6 of the ABS Guide for the Class
Notation Helicopter Decks and Facilities (HELIDK and HELIDK(SRF)).
REFERENCES
Subsection 1/3 of the Guide for the Class Notation Helicopter Decks and Facilities (HELIDK and HELIDK(SRF))
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Oil Carrier, HELIDK, Á, À AMS, À ACCU, SH, SHCM …
À A1, Oil Carrier, HELIDK(SRF), Á, À AMS, À ACCU, SH, SHCM…
NOTATION
HIMP
DESCRIPTION
Hull Inspection and Maintenance Program (HIMP) – This notation signifies that the vessel is enrolled
in the Hull Inspection and Maintenance Program in accordance with the ABS Guide for Hull
Inspection and Maintenance Program.
REFERENCES
Subsection 1/1 of the Guide for Hull Inspection and Maintenance Program
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Oil Carrier, HIMP, Á, À AMS, À ACCU, SH, SHCM …
NOTATION
HM1
HM1+R
DESCRIPTION
A Classification notation indicating that a vessel is fitted with a hull condition monitoring system for
the purpose of motion monitoring and that the system is in accordance with the applicable
requirements of the ABS Guide for Hull Condition Monitoring Systems. Slam Warning, Green
Seas Warning or Ship Motion to identify the motion monitoring system provided will follow this
notation. An additional notation, +R, will be added to the HM1 notation where provisions for
recording data for later evaluation are provided.
REFERENCES
2.1.1 of the Guide for Hull Condition Monitoring Systems
REMARKS
See also HM2 and HM3
Example – À A1, Oil Carrier, Á, À AMS, À ACCU, HM1+R Green Seas Warning, HM2+R
Hull Girder Stress, HM3 VDR, SH, SHCM…
NOTATION
HM2
HM2+R
DESCRIPTION
A Classification notation indicating that a vessel is fitted with a hull stress monitoring system, which
may include local stress and fatigue monitoring systems; and that the systems are in accordance with
the applicable requirements of the ABS Guide for Hull Condition Monitoring Systems. This notation
will be followed by Hull Girder Stress, Local Stress Monitoring or Fatigue Monitoring to
identify the stress monitoring system provided. An additional notation, +R, will be added to the HM2
notation where provisions for recording data for later evaluation are provided.
REFERENCES
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Oil Carrier, Á, À AMS, À ACCU, HM1+R Green Seas Warning, HM2+R
Hull Girder Stress, HM3 VDR, SH, SHCM…
NOTATION
HM3
DESCRIPTION
A Classification notation indicating that a vessel is fitted with a hull stress monitoring system and
associated Voyage Data Recording system; and that the systems are in accordance with the applicable
requirements of the ABS Guide for Hull Condition Monitoring Systems. This notation will be
followed by VDR or Enhanced VDR to identify the extent of their recording capability, the time
scale of their recording and the survivability of their recordings.
REFERENCES
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Oil Carrier, Á, À AMS, À ACCU, HM1+R Green Seas Warning, HM2+R Hull
Girder Stress, HM3 VDR, SH, SHCM…
NOTATION
Ice Class A0, B0, C0, D0
DESCRIPTION
The ice strengthening notations Ice Class A0, B0, C0, and D0 are notations that indicate that the
vessel is suitable for navigating independently in first year ice in accordance with the applicable
requirements of Section 6-1-1 of the ABS Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels. See
6-1-1/Table 1 for guidance in selecting the most suitable ice class for the operational regions and
periods, and ice conditions.
REFERENCES
6-1-1/3.1 of the Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Oil Carrier, Ice Class A0, Á, À AMS, À ACCU…
NOTATION
Ice Class A5, A4, A3, A2, A1
DESCRIPTION
The ice strengthening notations Ice Class A5, A4, A3, A2, and A1 are notations that indicate that
the vessel is suitable for navigating independently in multi-year ice in accordance with the applicable
requirements of Section 6-1-1 of the ABS Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels. See
6-1-1/Table 1 for guidance in selecting the most suitable ice class for the operational regions and
periods, and ice conditions.
REFERENCES
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Oil Carrier, Ice Class A5, Á, À AMS, À ACCU…
NOTATION
Ice Breaker
DESCRIPTION
This notation is assigned to a vessel designed and constructed for breaking ice to open navigable
channels for other ships. The classification notation Ice Breaker is to be assigned to vessels of Ice
Classes A2 through A5 built to the requirements of Part 6, Chapter 1 of the ABS Rules for Building
and Classing Steel Vessels.
REFERENCES
6-1-1/ 1.3 of the Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Ice Breaker, Á, À AMS…
NOTATION
Ice Class I AA, I A, I B, I C
DESCRIPTION
The ice strengthening notations Ice Class I AA, I A, I B and I C are notations that indicate that the
vessel is suitable for navigating the waters of the Northern Baltic in winter in accordance with the
applicable requirements of Section 6-1-2 of the ABS Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels.
The ice strengthening requirements of Section 6-1-2 of the ABS Rules for Building and Classing Steel
Vessels are in agreement with the Finnish-Swedish Ice Class Rules.
REFERENCES
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Oil Carrier, Ice Class IAA, Á, À AMS, À ACCU…
NOTATION
Ice Class PC1, PC2, PC3, PC4, PC5, PC6, PC7
DESCRIPTION
The ice strengthening notations Ice Class PC1, PC2, PC3, PC4, PC5, PC6, and PC7 are
notations that indicate that the vessel is suitable for navigating independently in ice-infested polar
waters in accordance with the applicable requirements of the ABS Guide for Building and Classing
Vessels Intended for Navigation in Polar Waters. See Section 1, Table 1 of the Guide for guidance in
selecting the most suitable ice class for the operational regions and periods, and ice conditions.
REFERENCES
Subsection 1/3 of the Guide for Building and Classing Vessels Intended for Navigation in Polar Waters
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Oil Carrier, Ice Class PC1, Á, À AMS, À ACCU…
NOTATION
LAID UP
DESCRIPTION
This notation is assigned to vessels that are lay-up in compliance with Appendix 7-A-3 “Guide for
Lay-Up and for Reactivation of Laid-up Ships” of the ABS Rules for Survey After Construction (Part 7)
and drilling units that are lay-up in compliance with Appendix 6-2-A1, “Guide for Lay-Up and
Reactivation of Laid-up Mobile Offshore Drilling Units” of the ABS MODU Rules. The notation
allows for the vessel’s surveys falling due during lay-up to be held in abeyance until the vessel
reactivates, at which time they are to be brought up-to-date.
REFERENCES
7-A-3/1.1 of the Rules for Survey After Construction
Appendix 6-2-A1 of the Rules for Building and Classing Mobile Offshore Drilling Units
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Ore or Oil Carrier, Á, À AMS, À ACCU, SH, SHCM, LAID UP…
À A1, Column Stabilized Drilling Unit, Ã, À AMS, LAID UP…
NOTATION
MAN
MAN-A
DESCRIPTION
for Vessel Maneuverability.
MAN – This notation is assigned to a vessel which meets the IMO Standards for Ship Maneuverability
[IMO 2002a and IMO 2002b] and if the “overall rating” evaluated by the unique assessment as
specified in the Guide is 1 or more.
MAN-A – This notation is assigned to a vessel for which all non-rated criteria are satisfied for the
intended service performance and the individual rating of all the rated criteria is 1 or more and the
overall rating is 2.5 or more.
REFERENCES
Section 1 of the Guide for Vessel Maneuverability
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Container Carrier, Á, À AMS, À ACCU, MAN, SH, SHCM …
À A1, Container Carrier, Á, À AMS, À ACCU, MAN-A, SH, SHCM …
NOTATION
MLC-ACCOM
DESCRIPTION
This notation is assigned to a vessel complying with the criteria contained in the ABS Guide for
Compliance with the ILO Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 Title 3 Requirements for crew
accommodations and the associated ambient environmental characteristics (i.e., vibration, noise, indoor
climate, and lighting).
REFERENCES
Subsection 1/6 of the Guide for Compliance with the ILO Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 Title 3 Requirements
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Oil Carrier, Á, À AMS, À ACCU, SH, SHCM, MLC-ACCOM…
NOTATION
MOVDK
DESCRIPTION
Movable Deck (MOVDK) – This notation signifies that the vessel’s movable deck(s) (platform(s)) are
designed and constructed in accordance with the ABS Guide for the Class Notation Movable Decks
(Platforms) for Vehicle Loading (MOVDK). This notation is applicable to dry cargo vessels, vehicle
carriers, steel barges, high speed craft, and high speed naval craft.
REFERENCES
Subsection 1/3 of the Guide for the Class Notation Movable Decks (Platforms) for Vehicle Loading (MOVDK)
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Vehicle Carrier, Á, À AMS, À ACCU, MOVDK…
NOTATION
NBL
DESCRIPTION
Navigational Bridge Layout (NBL) – This notation is assigned to vessels having bridges found to
comply with the requirements in Parts A and B of the ABS Guide for Navigational Bridge Design and
Equipment/Systems, as applicable, and which have been constructed and installed under ABS survey.
REFERENCES
A3.1 of the Guide for Navigational Bridge Design and Equipment/Systems
REMARKS
See also NBLES and NIBS
Example – À A1, Container Carrier, Á, À AMS, À ACCU, NBL, SH, SHCM…
NOTATION
NBLES
DESCRIPTION
Navigational Bridge Layout and Equipment/Systems (NBLES) – This notation is assigned to vessels
having bridges found to comply with the requirements in Parts A through C of the ABS Guide for
Navigational Bridge Design and Equipment/Systems, as applicable, and which have been constructed
and installed under ABS survey.
REFERENCES
REMARKS
See also NBL and NIBS
Example – À A1, Container Carrier, Á, À AMS, À ACCU, NBLES, SH, SHCM…
NOTATION
NIBS
DESCRIPTION
Navigational Integrated Bridge System (NIBS) – This notation is assigned to vessels which are fitted
with an integrated bridge systems (IBS) for the navigational purpose, and are found to comply with
the requirements in Parts A through D of the ABS Guide for Navigational Bridge Design and
Equipment/Systems, and which have been constructed and installed under ABS survey.
REFERENCES
REMARKS
See also NBL and NBLES
Example – À A1, Container Carrier, Á, À AMS, À ACCU, NIBS, SH, SHCM…
NOTATION
NS
DESCRIPTION
No Sparring (NS) – The NS notation is assigned to vessels to indicate that no sparring has been fitted
in the cargo holds. Sparring may be omitted in vessels engaged in the carriage of coal, bulk cargoes,
containers and similar cargoes.
REFERENCES
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Bulk Carrier, BC-B (maximum cargo density: 1.7 tonnes/m3), NS, Á,
À AMS, À ACCU, SH, SHCM…
NOTATION
OMBO
DESCRIPTION
This notation is assigned to seagoing vessels to indicate the arrangement and capability for One Man
Bridge Operation. This notation is valid for existing vessels, which have the OMBO notation or any
new vessel under construction, for which the building contract between Owner and builder was signed
before 1 January 2000.
REFERENCES
A.1.1 of the Guide for One Man Bridge Operation (OMBO)
REMARKS
OMBO is no longer valid for new construction vessels and is superseded by the NBLES or NIBS
notations.
NOTATION
À PAS
DESCRIPTION
This notation is assigned to non-self propelled vessels fitted with thrusters intended to assist in
maneuvering or propelling while under tow, and the arrangements are in accordance with the
applicable requirements of Part 4, Chapter 3 of the ABS Rules for Building and Classing Steel
Vessels. The Maltese Cross À symbol signifies that compliance with these Rules was verified by ABS
during construction of the vessel. This includes survey of the machinery at the manufacturer’s plant
(where required), during installation on board the vessel; and during trials.
REFERENCES
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Chemical Tank Barge, À PAS…
NOTATION
PORT
DESCRIPTION
This notation is assigned to vessels fitted with automatic and remote control and monitoring system
installations which are found to comply with the requirements of the ABS Guide for Automatic or
Remote Control and Monitoring Systems for Vessels in Port and which have been installed and tested
under survey by the Surveyor.
REFERENCES
1-1-3/29 of the Rules for Conditions of Classification (Part 1)
1.3 of the Guide for Automatic or Remote Control and Monitoring Systems for Vessels in Port
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Container Carrier, Á, À AMS, À ACCU, PORT, SH, SHCM…
NOTATION
POT
DESCRIPTION
Protection of Fuel and Lubricating Oil Tanks (POT) –. This notation is assigned to vessels having an
aggregate fuel oil capacity of 600 m3 (21,190 ft3) and above with fuel oil and lubricating oil tanks
arranged in accordance with the requirements specified in 4-6-4/17.5 of the ABS Rules for Building
and Classing Steel Vessels.
REFERENCES
4-6-4/17.5 of the ABS Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels.
4-4-4/11.5 of the ABS Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels Under 90 Meters (295 Feet) in Length.
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Container Carrier, Á, À AMS, À ACCU, POT, SH, SHCM…
NOTATION
R1
R1+
DESCRIPTION
A Classification notation addressing redundancy arrangements and indicating that a vessel is fitted
with multiple propulsion machines but only one propulsor and steering system, and that the arrangements
are in accordance with the applicable requirements of Section 4-3-6 of the ABS Rules for Building
and Classing Steel Vessels. The additional mark + will be added to the R1 notation to denote that the
vessel’s propulsion capability is such that, upon a single failure, propulsive power can be maintained
or immediately restored to the extent necessary to withstand adverse weather conditions without
drifting in accordance with 4-3-6/7.1 of the Rules. The lack of the mark + indicates that the vessel is
not intended to withstand the adverse weather conditions in 4-3-6/7.1, but can maintain course and
maneuverability at a reduced speed under normal expected weather conditions in accordance with
4-3-6/7.3 of the Rules.
REFERENCES
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Container Carrier, Á, À AMS, À ACCU, R1, SH, SHCM…
NOTATION
R1-S
R1-S+
DESCRIPTION
with a single propulsor but has the propulsion machinery arranged in separate spaces such that a fire
or flood in one space will not effect the propulsion machinery in the other space and that the arrangements
and Classing Steel Vessels. The additional mark + will be added to the R1-S notation to denote that
the vessel’s propulsion capability is such that, upon a single failure, propulsive power can be maintained
REFERENCES
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Oil Carrier, Á, À AMS, À ACCU, R1-S, SH, SHCM…
NOTATION
R2
R2+
DESCRIPTION
with multiple propulsion machines and multiple propulsors and steering system, and that the arrangements
and Classing Steel Vessels. The additional mark + will be added to the R2 notation to denote that the
vessel’s propulsion capability is such that, upon a single failure, propulsive power can be maintained
REFERENCES
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Container Carrier, Á, À AMS, À ACCU, +R2, SH, SHCM…
NOTATION
R2-S
R2-S+
DESCRIPTION
with multiple machines and propulsors, and associated steering systems arranged in separate spaces
such that a fire or flood in one space will not effect the propulsion machinery in the other space; and
that the arrangements are in accordance with the applicable requirements of Section 4-3-6 of the ABS
Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels. The additional mark + will be added to the R2-S
notation to denote that the vessel’s propulsion capability is such that, upon a single failure, propulsive
power can be maintained or immediately restored to the extent necessary to withstand adverse weather
conditions without drifting in accordance with 4-3-6/7.1 of the Rules. The lack of the mark + indicates
that the vessel is not intended to withstand the adverse weather conditions in 4-3-6/7.1, but can
maintain course and maneuverability at a reduced speed under normal expected weather conditions in
accordance with 4-3-6/7.3 of the Rules.
REFERENCES
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Container Carrier, Á, À AMS, À ACCU, +R2-S, SH, SHCM…
NOTATION
RCM (PROP)
RCM (FIRE)
RCM (CARGO)
RCM (MACH)
RCM (CDS)
DESCRIPTION
RCM (PROP) – This notation is assigned to an approved Reliability-Centered Maintenance Program
for the equipment related to the propulsion system, including as applicable: prime mover(s), reduction
gears, shafting, propeller or other thrusting device, all auxiliary systems providing, cooling, control,
electrical power, exhaust, fuel, lubrication and equipment related to the steering or other directional
control system.
RCM (FIRE) – This notation is assigned to an approved Reliability-Centered Maintenance Program
for the equipment related to the fire extinguishing system.
RCM (CARGO) – This notation is assigned to an approved Reliability-Centered Maintenance
Program for the equipment related to the cargo handling (cargo pumps, associated piping for internal
and independent tanks) and safety equipment (i.e., inert gas system, vapor emission control) for a
tanker, liquefied gas carrier or chemical carrier.
RCM (MACH) – This notation is assigned to an approved Reliability-Centered Maintenance Program
for the equipment related to both propulsion and fire extinguishing systems.
RCM (CDS) – This notation is assigned to an approved Reliability-Centered Maintenance Program
for systems and equipment used in connection with drilling and the drilling system and the drilling
system is in compliance with the ABS Guide for the Certification of Drilling Systems.
REFERENCES
Subsection 1/3 of the Guide for Reliability-Centered Maintenance
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Container Carrier, Á, À AMS, À ACCU, SH, SHCM, RCM (PROP)…
À A1, Column Stabilized Drilling Unit, Ã, À AMS, RCM (FIRE), RCM (CDS)…
NOTATION
RES
DESCRIPTION
Residual Strength (RES) – This notation is assigned to Oil or Fuel Oil Carriers, Bulk or Ore Carriers,
combination carriers and Container Carriers which have been built in accordance with the procedure
and criteria for calculating and evaluating the residual strength of hull structures as per the ABS
Guide for Assessing Hull-Girder Residual Strength.
REFERENCES
5C-1-2/1.7, 5C-3-2/1.7 and 5C-5-2/1.7 of the Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Oil Carrier, Á, À AMS, À ACCU, SH, SHCM, RES…
NOTATION
RW
DESCRIPTION
The notation RW for Reduced Weight anchors is a notation, for vessels receiving the Á symbol,
assigned for specially considered anchors of proven superior holding ability for which the mass may
be reduced up to a maximum of 25% from the mass specified in 3-5-1/Table 1 of the ABS Rules for
Building and Classing Steel Vessels.
REFERENCES
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Container Carrier, Á, RW, À AMS…
NOTATION
S, SE, HS, SQ, SQE, SHE, SHQ, HSQE
DESCRIPTION
Notations assigned to a vessel to recognize that the classed vessel meets the applicable requirements
of the ABS Guide for Marine Health, Safety, Quality, and Environmental Management for Safety
Certification (S) or Safety and Environmental Certification (SE) or Health and Safety Certification (HS)
or Safety and Quality Certification (SQ) or Safety, Quality, and Environmental Certification (SQE)
or Safety, Health, and Environmental Certification (SHE) or Safety, Health, and Quality Certification
(SHQ) or Health, Safety, Quality, and Environmental Certification (HSQE).
REFERENCES
1.2.1 of the Guide for Marine Health, Safety, Quality, and Environmental Management
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Oil Carrier, Á, À AMS, À ACCU, SH, SHCM, HSQE…
NOTATION
SEC
DESCRIPTION
The Ship Security notation (SEC) is assigned to all types of ships and mobile offshore drilling units
complying with the ABS Guide for Ship Security (SEC) Notation for which the requirements have
been derived from Chapter XI-2 of SOLAS, Parts A and B of the ISPS Code and 33 CFR Subchapter
H of the USCG Regulations.
REFERENCES
1/1 of the Guide for Ship Security (SEC) Notation
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Oil Carrier, Á, À AMS, À ACCU, SH, SHCM, SEC…
NOTATION
SFA(years)
DESCRIPTION
Spectral Fatigue Analysis (SFA) – This notation is assigned to vessels where Spectral Fatigue
Analysis is performed in accordance with an acceptable procedure and criteria, and the vessel is built
in accordance with plans approved on the basis of the results of such analysis. The vessel will be
distinguished in the Record by the notation SFA(years). The notation, SFA(years) denotes that the
designated fatigue life value is equal to 20 years or greater. The (years) refers to the designated
fatigue life equal to 20 years or more (in 5-year increments) as specified by the applicant.
REFERENCES
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Container Carrier, Á, À AMS, À ACCU, SH, SHCM, SFA(30)…
NOTATION
SH, SHCM
DESCRIPTION
SafeHull (SH) – The SafeHull notation is assigned to Oil or Fuel Oil Carriers, Bulk or Ore Carriers,
Combination Carriers and Container Carriers designed to Part 5C, Chapters 1, 3 and 5 of the ABS
Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels, respectively. Also, the SH notation may be assigned to
Membrane Tank LNG Carriers designed in accordance with the ABS Guide for Building and Classing
Membrane Tank LNG Vessels. The SH notation applies to Container Vessels over 130 m, Bulk Carriers,
Oil Carriers and Membrane Tank LNG Carriers over 150 m in length and Liquefied Gas Carriers with
Independent Tanks over 90 m in length. The requirements of these portions of the Rules are collectively
referred to as the SafeHull Criteria.
SafeHull Construction Monitoring (SHCM) – This notation is assigned to vessels that have been
found in compliance with Part 5C, Appendix 1, “Guide for SafeHull Construction Monitoring
Program” of the ABS Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels and assigned the SafeHull
notation SH. This notation is required for Oil or Fuel Oil Carriers, Bulk or Ore Carriers, Combination
Carriers and Container Carriers designed to Part 5C, Chapters 1, 3 and 5 of ABS Rules for Building
and Classing Steel Vessels, respectively. The SHCM notation is also required for Membrane Tank
LNG Carriers that have been designed in accordance with the ABS Guide for Building and Classing
Membrane Tank LNG Vessels and assigned the SafeHull notation SH and for Liquefied Gas Carriers
with Independent Tanks that have been design in accordance with the ABS Guide for Building and
Classing Liquefied Gas Carriers with Independent Tanks and assigned the SafeHull notation SH.
The notations SH and SHCM are always used in association with each other.
REFERENCES
5C-1-1/1.1, 5C-3-1/1.1, 5C-5-1/1.1 and Part 5C, Appendix 1 of the Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels
1/1.1 of the Guide for Building and Classing Membrane Tank LNG Vessels
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Container Carrier, Á, À AMS, À ACCU, SH, SHCM…
NOTATION
SHR
DESCRIPTION
This notation is assigned to vessels designed to the Rules of another recognized classification society,
and whose scantlings have been reviewed by ABS based on the requirements in Section 5C-5-4 for
container carriers in the ABS Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels.
REFERENCES
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Container Carrier, Á, À AMS, À ACCU, SHR…
NOTATION
SH-DLA
DESCRIPTION
SafeHull-Dynamic Loading Approach (SH-DLA) – This notation is assigned to vessels which have
been evaluated using an enhanced structural analysis procedure and criteria for calculating and
evaluating the behavior of hull structures under dynamic loading conditions and built in accordance
with plans approved on the basis of the results of such analysis, in addition to full compliance with the
other requirements of the Rules.
REFERENCES
Subsection 1/7 of the Guide for ’SafeHull Dynamic Loading Approach’ for Vessels
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Container Carrier, Á, À AMS, À ACCU, SH, SHCM, SH-DLA…
NOTATION
TCM
DESCRIPTION
Tailshaft Condition Monitoring (TCM) – This notation is assigned to vessels with tailshafts specifically
arranged with oil-lubricated stern tube bearings, complying with the requirements of the ABS Guide
for Classification Notation Tailshaft Condition Monitoring (TCM).
REFERENCES
Section 7-9-19 of the Rules for Survey After Construction
1.1 of the Guide for Classification Notation Tailshaft Condition Monitoring (TCM)
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Oil Carrier, Á, À AMS, À ACCU, SH, SHCM, TCM, ESP …
NOTATION
UWILD
DESCRIPTION
UnderWater Inspection in Lieu of Drydocking (UWILD) – This notation signifies that the vessel is in
compliance with the ABS Guide for the Class Notation Underwater Inspection in Lieu of Drydocking
(UWILD) and the Owner may request Underwater Inspection as an alternative to Drydocking
Inspection. This notation is not applicable to vessels 15 years of age or over and subject to the
Enhanced Survey Program (ESP).
REFERENCES
Subsection 1/3 of the Guide for the Class Notation Underwater Inspection in Lieu of Drydocking (UWILD)
REMARKS
ACCU, SH, SHCM, ESP, UWILD…
NOTATION
WT
DESCRIPTION
WaterTight (WT) – The notation WT in the Record denotes that the watertight bulkheads have been
constructed in accordance with Rules. In each case, the notation WT is prefixed by the number of
such watertight bulkheads.
REFERENCES
3-2-9/ 1.1 of the Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels
2/11.1 of the Guide for Building and Classing Passenger Vessels
REMARKS
WT will be published in the category of “Hull” in the Record.
Common Structural Rules for Tankers and Bulk Carriers
NOTATION
CSR, AB-CM
DESCRIPTION
Vessels designed and built to the requirements in Part 5A, “Common Structural Rules for Double Hull
Oil Tankers”, and Part 5B, “Common Structural Rules for Single/Double Side Skin Bulk Carriers”,
will be identified in the Record by the notation CSR, AB-CM.
REFERENCES
Appendix 5C-A2, “Guide for ABS Construction Monitoring Program” of the Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels
Part 5A “Common Structural Rules for Double Hull Oil Tankers” of the Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels
Part 5B “Common Structural Rules for Single/Double Side Skin Bulk Carriers” of the Rules for Building and Classing Steel
Vessels
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Oil Carrier, Á, À AMS, À ACCU, CSR, AB-CM…
À A1, Bulk Carrier, BC-B (maximum cargo density: 1.7 tonnes/m3), Á, À AMS,
À ACCU, CSR, AB-CM…
Bulk Carriers
NOTATION
Bulk Carrier
DESCRIPTION
A Bulk Carrier is a vessel that is constructed generally with single deck, topside tanks and hopper
side tanks in cargo spaces, and is intended primarily to carry dry cargo in bulk. It includes vessels of
such type as Ore Carriers or combination carriers such as Ore or Oil Carriers and Oil or Bulk/Ore
(OBO) Carriers. The ABS vessel type notation Bulk Carrier forms part of the class designation
assigned to a vessel built in accordance with the requirements of Part 5B or Part 5C, Chapters 3 or 4
of the ABS Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels.
REFERENCES
5B-1-1/3, 5C-3-1/1.1, 5C-3-1/1.5.1 and 5C-4-1/1.1 of the Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels
REMARKS
See also bulk carrier notations, BC-A, BC-B, BC-C, (no MP)
Example – À A1, Bulk Carrier, BC-B (maximum cargo density: 1.7 tonnes/m3), Á, À AMS,
À ACCU, SH, SHCM…
À A1, Bulk Carrier, BC-B (maximum cargo density: 1.7 tonnes/m3), Á, À AMS,
À ACCU, CSR, AB-CM…
Bulk Carriers
NOTATION
Bulk Carrier, BC-A (holds X and Y may be empty with maximum cargo density: XX
tonnes/m3)
Bulk Carrier, BC-B (maximum cargo density: XX tonnes/m3)
Bulk Carrier, BC-C (maximum cargo density: XX tonnes/m3)
(no MP)
DESCRIPTION
BC-A: Bulk Carriers designed to carry dry bulk cargoes of cargo density 1.0 tonnes/m3 (62.4 lbs/ft3)
and above with specified holds empty in addition to BC-B conditions
BC-B: Bulk Carriers designed to carry dry bulk cargoes of cargo density 1.0 tonnes/m3 (62.4 lbs/ft3)
and above with all cargo holds loaded in addition to BC-C conditions
BC-C: Bulk Carriers designed to carry dry bulk cargoes of cargo density less than 1.0 tonnes/m3
(62.4 lbs/ft3)
(maximum cargo density: XX tonnes/m3): A notation added after the above Bulk Carrier BC-A,
BC-B and BC-C notations where a bulk carrier has not been designed to carry 3.0 tonnes/m3 (187 lbs/ft3)
or higher density cargoes
(no MP): A notation added after the above Bulk Carrier BC-A, BC-B and BC-C notations where a
bulk carrier has not been designed for loading and unloading in multiple ports
REFERENCES
5B-1-1/3.1 and 5C-3-1/1.1 of the Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels.
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Bulk Carrier, BC-A (holds 2, 4, 6 and 8 may be empty with maximum
cargo density: 2.50 tonnes/m3), Á, À AMS, À ACCU, SH, SHCM…
À A1, Bulk Carrier, BC-B (maximum cargo density: 1.7 tonnes/m3), (no MP),
Á, À AMS, À ACCU, SH, SHCM…
À A1, Bulk Carrier, BC-B (maximum cargo density: 1.7 tonnes/m3), (no MP),
Á, À AMS, À ACCU, CSR, AB-CM…
Bulk Carriers
NOTATION
Oil or Bulk/Ore (OBO) Carrier
DESCRIPTION
An Oil or Bulk/Ore (OBO) Carrier is a single deck vessel of double skin construction, with a
double bottom, lower and upper wing tanks, (hopper and topside tanks) intended for carriage of oil or
dry cargoes including ore in bulk. The ABS vessel type notation Oil or Bulk/Ore (OBO) Carrier is
assigned to a vessel built in accordance with the requirements of Part 5C, Chapters 1 and 3 or Chapters
2 and 4 of the ABS Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels.
REFERENCES
5C-3-1/1.1, 5C-3-1/1.5.4 of the Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Oil or Bulk/Ore (OBO) Carrier, Á, À AMS, À ACCU, SH, SHCM…
Bulk Carriers
NOTATION
Ore Carrier
DESCRIPTION
An Ore Carrier is a vessel having two longitudinal bulkheads and a double bottom throughout the
cargo area, constructed for the carriage of ore cargoes in the center holds only. The ABS vessel type
notation Ore Carrier is assigned to a vessel built in accordance with the requirements of Part 5C,
Chapter 3 or 4 of the ABS Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels.
REFERENCES
5C-3-1/1.1, 5C-3-1/1.5.2 and 5C-4-1/1.1 of the Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Ore Carrier, Á, À AMS, À ACCU, SH, SHCM…
Bulk Carriers
NOTATION
Ore or Oil Carrier
DESCRIPTION
An Ore or Oil Carrier is a vessel having two longitudinal bulkheads and a double bottom throughout
the cargo area, constructed for the carriage of ore cargoes in the center holds or for the carriage of oil
cargoes in the center holds and wing tanks. The ABS vessel type notation Ore or Oil Carrier is
assigned to a vessel built in accordance with the requirements of Part 5C, Chapters 1 and 3 or Chapters 2
and 4 of the ABS Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels.
REFERENCES
5C-3-1/1.1and 5C-3-1/1.5.3 of the Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Ore or Oil Carrier, Á, À AMS, À ACCU, SH, SHCM…
Bulk Carriers
NOTATION
Great Lakes Service
DESCRIPTION
This is a geographical limitation notation for vessels built specifically for trading on the Great Lakes
and the St. Lawrence Seaway. This notation is assigned to Great Lakes vessels of bulk carrier type,
having machinery aft, at least one complete deck, a double bottom and side tanks, a longitudinal
system of framing for the deck and bottom, and two continuous longitudinal bulkheads fitted between
the freeboard deck and the bottom shell.
REFERENCES
1.1 of the Rules for Building and Classing Bulk Carriers for Service on the Great Lakes
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Great Lakes Service, Á, À AMS, À ACCU…
Bulk Carriers
NOTATION
GRAB [XX tonnes]
DESCRIPTION
This notation is assigned to Bulk Carriers to signify that the vessel’s inner bottom has been designed
for a specific grab weight.
REFERENCES
5B-1-1/3.2 and 5C-3-4/7.3.2(b) of the Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels
REMARKS
ACCU, SH, SHCM, GRAB [25 tonnes]…
À A1, Bulk Carrier, BC-B (maximum cargo density: 1.7 tonnes/m3), Á, À AMS, À
ACCU, CSR, AB-CM, GRAB [25]…
Bulk Carriers
NOTATION
HCS
DESCRIPTION
Hatch Cover Strength (HCS) – The notation HCS placed after the appropriate classification notation
for Bulk Carriers or Combination Carriers signifies that the cargo hold hatch covers located forward
of 0.25L from the forward perpendicular are designed in accordance with the requirements of
5C-3-6/15 of the ABS Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels, 2003. This notation is valid for
existing vessels, which have HCS notation or any new vessel under construction, for which the
building contract between Owner and builder was signed before 1 January 2004.
REFERENCES
5C-3-6/15.1 of the Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels, 2003.
REMARKS
ACCU, SH, SHCM, GRAB, HCS…
Bulk Carriers
NOTATION
PMA
PMA+
DESCRIPTION
PMA – This notation is assigned to Bulk Carriers of 20,000 gross tonnage and over constructed on or after
1 January 2006 to signify that the vessel’s means of access meets IMO Resolutions MSC.151(78) –
“Adoption of Amendments to the International Convention for the Safety Of Life At Sea, 1974” and
MSC.158(78) – “Adoption of Amendments to the Technical Provisions for Means of Access for
Inspections”, and the associated IACS Unified Interpretation (UI) SC 191 for the application of
amended SOLAS regulation II-1/3-6 (resolution MSC.151 (78)) and revised Technical provisions for
means of access for inspections (resolution MSC.158 (78)).
PMA+ – This notation is assigned to Bulk Carriers of 20,000 gross tonnage and over constructed on or
after 1 January 2006 to signify that the vessel’s means of access meets the requirements for the PMA
notation, plus additional ergonomic considerations, such as sizes of openings, clear overhead heights,
guardrail heights and stanchion spacing, ladder incline angles, etc.
REFERENCES
Subsection 1/4 of the Guide for Means of Access to Tanks and Holds for Inspection
REMARKS
ACCU, SH, SHCM, PMA…
À A1, Bulk Carrier, BC-B (maximum cargo density: 1.7 tonnes/m3), Á, À AMS, À
ACCU, SH, SHCM, PMA+…
Chemical Carriers
NOTATION
Chemical Carrier
DESCRIPTION
This notation is assigned to a vessel that is designed and constructed or adapted and specifically fitted
for the carriage in bulk of any liquid product listed in Part 5C, Chapter 9, Section 17 of the ABS Rules
for Building and Classing Steel Vessels. The ABS vessel type notation Chemical Carrier forms part
of the classification designation assigned to vessels built in accordance with the requirements of Part
5C, Chapter 9 of the ABS Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels.
REFERENCES
5C-9-1/1.1.1 of the Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Chemical Carrier, Á, À AMS, À ACCU…
Chemical Carriers
NOTATION
BLU
DESCRIPTION
This notation is assigned to a vessel that is provided with bow loading and unloading arrangements in
compliance with the ABS Guide for the Class Notation for Bow or Stern Loading and Unloading
(BLU or SLU) for Oil Carriers, Liquefied Gas Carriers or Chemical Carriers.
REFERENCES
Subsection 1/3 of the Guide for the Class Notation for Bow or Stern Loading and Unloading (BLU or SLU) for Oil Carriers,
Liquefied Gas Carriers or Chemical Carriers
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Chemical Carrier, BLU, Á, À AMS, À ACCU …
Chemical Carriers
NOTATION
SLU
DESCRIPTION
This notation is assigned to a vessel that is provided with stern loading and unloading arrangements in
REFERENCES
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Chemical Carrier, SLU, Á, À AMS, À ACCU …
Compressed Natural Gas Carriers
NOTATION
Compressed Natural Gas Carrier
DESCRIPTION
This notation is assigned to a vessel that is designed and constructed for the transportation in bulk of
compressed natural gas in accordance with the ABS Guide for Vessels Intended to Carry Compressed
Natural Gases in Bulk. The ABS vessel type notation Compressed Natural Gas Carrier forms
part of the classification designation assigned to vessels built in accordance with the ABS Guide for
Vessels Intended to Carry Compressed Natural Gases in Bulk.
REFERENCES
1-3/1 of the Guide for Vessels Intended to Carry Compressed Natural Gases in Bulk
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Compressed Natural Gas Carrier, Á, À AMS…
Container Carriers
NOTATION
Container Carrier
DESCRIPTION
This notation is assigned to a vessel that is designed and constructed primarily for the carriage of
containers in holds or on deck or both, with structures for that purpose, such as cell guides, pedestals,
etc. The ABS vessel type notation Container Carrier forms part of the classification designation
assigned to vessels built in accordance with the requirements of Part 5C, Chapter 5 or 6 of the ABS
Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels.
REFERENCES
5C-5-1/1.1 and 5C-6-1/1 of the Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Container Carrier, Á, À AMS, À ACCU, SH, SHCM…
Container Carriers
NOTATION
CSC
DESCRIPTION
Container Securing Certificate (CSC) – The CSC notation signifies that the initial installation of the
container securing system has been certified by ABS. A certificate indicating that the initial
installation is in compliance with the ABS Guide for Certification of Container Securing Systems may
be issued upon satisfactory completion of plan review, testing of securing devices, approval of the
Container Securing Manual and installation of the fixed securing devices to the satisfaction of the
attending Surveyor.
REFERENCES
1.23 of the Guide for Certification of Container Securing Systems
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Container Carrier, Á, À AMS, À ACCU, CSC, SH, SHCM…
Container Carriers
NOTATION
PARR-N
PARR-C1
PARR-C2
DESCRIPTION
for Assessment of Parametric Roll Resonance in the Design of Container Carriers.
PARR-N – This notation is assigned to a vessel for which the susceptibility criteria of Section 2 of
the Guide shows no susceptibility to parametric roll.
PARR-C1 – This notation is assigned to a vessel with parametric roll under control. For this
notation, a roll decay test, susceptibility and severity check and numerical simulations have been
performed and operational guidance has been developed.
PARR-C2 – This notation is assigned to a vessel with parametric roll under control. For this
notation, a roll decay test, susceptibility and severity check and numerical simulations have been
performed and operational guidance has been developed. In addition, anti-rolling devices designed
specifically to eliminate or mitigate parametric roll with proof of efficiency or general-purpose anti-
rolling devices proven effective against parametric roll are fitted.
REFERENCES
Section 5 of the Guide for the Assessment of Parametric Roll Resonance in the Design of Container Carriers
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Container Carrier, Á, À AMS, À ACCU, SH, SHCM, PARR-C1…
Liquefied Gas Carriers
NOTATION
Liquefied Gas Carrier
DESCRIPTION
liquefied gas or other products listed in Part 5C, Chapter 8, Section 19 of the ABS Rules for Building
and Classing Steel Vessels, or Chapter 19 of the International Code for the Construction and
Equipment of Ships Carrying Liquefied Gases in Bulk (i.e., the International Gas Carrier Code) or
Chapter XIX of the Code for the Construction and Equipment of Ships Carrying Liquefied Gases in
Bulk (i.e., the Gas Carrier Code). The ABS vessel type notation Liquefied Gas Carrier forms part
of the classification designation assigned to vessels built in accordance with Part 5C, Chapter 8 of the
ABS Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels or the ABS Guide for Building and Classing
Membrane Tank LNG Vessels.
REFERENCES
1/1.1 of the Guide for Building and Classing Membrane Tank LNG Vessels
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Liquefied Gas Carrier, Á, À AMS…
NOTATION
Liquefied Natural Gas Carrier
DESCRIPTION
liquefied natural gas of which the methane content is more than 80%. The ABS vessel type notation
Liquefied Natural Gas Carrier forms part of the classification designation assigned to vessels
built in accordance with Part 5C, Chapter 8 of the ABS Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels.
REFERENCES
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Liquefied Natural Gas Carrier, Á, À AMS…
NOTATION
Liquefied Gas Carrier with Independent Tanks
DESCRIPTION
This notation is assigned to a vessel that is designed and constructed for the carriage of liquefied
petroleum gases. The ABS vessel type notation Liquefied Gas Carrier with Independent Tanks
forms part of the classification designation assigned to vessels built in accordance with the ABS
Guide for Building and Classing Liquefied Gas Carriers with Independent Tanks.
REFERENCES
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Liquefied Gas Carrier with Independent Tanks, Á, À AMS…
NOTATION
BLU
DESCRIPTION
REFERENCES
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Liquefied Gas Carrier, BLU, Á, À AMS …
NOTATION
DFD
DESCRIPTION
Dual Fuel Diesel Engine power plant (DFD) is a notation assigned to a vessel with a dual fuel diesel
engine power plant complying with the requirements of the ABS Guide for Propulsion Systems for
LNG Carriers, which has been constructed and installed under survey by the Surveyor.
REFERENCES
Section 2 of the Guide for Propulsion Systems for LNG Carriers
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Liquefied Gas Carrier, Á, À AMS, DFD, À ACCU…
NOTATION
DFGT
DESCRIPTION
Dual Fuel Gas Turbine power plant (DFGT) is a notation assigned to a vessel with a dual fuel gas
turbine power plant complying with the requirements of the ABS Guide for Propulsion Systems for
LNG Carriers, which has been constructed and installed under survey by the Surveyor.
REFERENCES
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Liquefied Gas Carrier, Á, À AMS, DFGT, À ACCU…
NOTATION
GCU
DESCRIPTION
Gas Combustion Unit (GCU) is a notation assigned to a vessel with a gas combustion unit complying
with the requirements of the ABS Guide for Propulsion Systems for LNG Carriers, which has been
constructed and installed under survey by the Surveyor.
REFERENCES
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Liquefied Gas Carrier, Á, À AMS, GCU, À ACCU…
NOTATION
(LNG) R
DESCRIPTION
This notation is assigned to a new or existing LNG Carrier on which the Owner has elected to install a
Re-gasification facility so that the vessel may load and transport LNG and then re-gasify it for direct
discharge ashore.
REFERENCES
3-1/1.13 of the Guide for Building and Classing Offshore LNG Terminals
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Liquefied Gas Carrier, Á, À AMS, (LNG) R, À ACCU…
NOTATION
RELIQ
DESCRIPTION
Re-Liquefaction Unit (RELIQ) is a notation assigned to a vessel with a re-liquefaction unit complying
with the requirements of the ABS Guide for Propulsion Systems for LNG Carriers, which has been
constructed and installed under survey by the Surveyor.
REFERENCES
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Liquefied Gas Carrier, Á, À AMS, RELIQ, À ACCU…
NOTATION
SLU
DESCRIPTION
REFERENCES
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Liquefied Gas Carrier, SLU, Á, À AMS …
Oil Carriers
NOTATION
Fuel Oil Carrier
DESCRIPTION
This notation is assigned to a vessel that is designed and constructed for the transportation of petroleum
products in bulk, having flash points exceeding 60°C (140°F), closed cup test. Petroleum product
refers to oil other than crude oil. The ABS vessel type notation Fuel Oil Carrier forms part of the
classification designation assigned to vessels built in accordance with the requirements of Part 5C,
Chapter 1 or 2 of the ABS Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels.
REFERENCES
5C-1-1/1.1 and 5C-2-1/1.1 of the Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Fuel Oil Carrier, Á, À AMS…
Oil Carriers
NOTATION
Oil Carrier
DESCRIPTION
This notation is assigned to a vessel that is designed and constructed primarily for the transportation
of petroleum products (crude oil) in bulk, having flash points at or below 60°C (140°F), closed cup
test, and includes vessels of similar types such as combination carriers (Ore/Oil Carriers, etc.). The
ABS vessel type notation Oil Carrier forms part of the classification designation assigned to vessels
built in accordance with the requirements of Part 5A or Part 5C, Chapter1 or 2 of the ABS Rules for
Building and Classing Steel Vessels.
REFERENCES
5A-1-1, 5C-1-1/1.1 and 5C-2-1/1.1 of the Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Oil Carrier, Á, À AMS, SH, SHCM…
À A1, Oil Carrier, Á, À AMS, CSR, AB-CM…
Oil Carriers
NOTATION
Oil Carrier, Storage Service
DESCRIPTION
This notation is assigned to a vessel that is classed Oil Carrier and operating in oil storage service in
accordance with the requirements of Part 7, Appendix, 1 of the ABS Guide for Building and Classing
Floating Production Installations.
REFERENCES
7-A1/3.3 of the Guide for Building and Classing Floating Production Installations
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Oil Carrier, Storage Service, Á, À AMS…
A1, Oil Carrier, Storage Service, Á, AMS…
Oil Carriers
NOTATION
Oil Storage Service
DESCRIPTION
This notation is assigned to a vessel that that has reached its MARPOL phase-out date and will be
used in oil storage service in accordance with the requirements of Part 7, Appendix, 1 of the ABS
Guide for Building and Classing Floating Production Installations.
REFERENCES
7-A1/3.3 of the Guide for Building and Classing Floating Production Installations
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Oil Storage Service, Á, À AMS…
A1, Oil Storage Service, Á, AMS…
Oil Carriers
NOTATION
BLU
DESCRIPTION
REFERENCES
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Oil Carrier, BLU, Á, À AMS …
Oil Carriers
NOTATION
CPP
DESCRIPTION
Cargo Piping Protected (CPP) – At the request of the Owner, the notation CPP is assigned to an oil
carrier in which all the cargo piping and valve control piping are located above the double bottom.
The CPP notation is not a condition of classification.
REFERENCES
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Oil Carrier, Á, À AMS, À ACCU, CPP…
Oil Carriers
NOTATION
PMA
PMA+
DESCRIPTION
PMA – This notation is assigned to Oil Carriers of 500 gross tonnage and over constructed on or after
1 January 2006 to signify that the vessel’s means of access meets IMO Resolutions MSC.151(78) –
“Adoption of Amendments to the International Convention for the Safety Of Life At Sea, 1974” and
MSC.158(78) – “Adoption of Amendments to the Technical Provisions for Means of Access for
Inspections”, and the associated IACS Unified Interpretation (UI) SC 191 for the application of
amended SOLAS regulation II-1/3-6 (resolution MSC.151 (78)) and revised Technical provisions for
means of access for inspections (resolution MSC.158 (78)).
PMA+ – This notation is assigned to Oil Carriers of 500 gross tonnage and over constructed on or
after 1 January 2006 to signify that the vessel’s means of access meets the requirements for the PMA
notation, plus additional ergonomic considerations, such as sizes of openings, clear overhead heights,
guardrail heights and stanchion spacing, ladder incline angles, etc.
REFERENCES
Subsection 1/4 of the Guide for Means of Access to Tanks and Holds for Inspection
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Oil Carrier, Á, À AMS, SH, SHCM, PMA…
À A1, Oil Carrier, Á, À AMS, SH, SHCM, PMA+…
Oil Carriers
NOTATION
SLU
DESCRIPTION
REFERENCES
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Oil Carrier, SLU, Á, À AMS …
Oil Carriers
NOTATION
VEC
VEC-L
DESCRIPTION
Vapor Emission Control (VEC) – The notation VEC is assigned to indicate that an oil carrier is fitted
with a vapor emission control system; and that the system is in accordance with the applicable
requirements of 5C-1-7/21 of the ABS Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels for this notation
Vapor Emission Control-Lightering (VEC-L) – The notation VEC-L is assigned to indicate that an
oil carrier is fitted with a vapor emission control system that is also suitable for use during lightering
operations; and that the system is in accordance with the applicable requirements of 5C-1-7/21 of the
ABS Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels for this notation.
REFERENCES
5C-1-7/1.1.2 and 5C-1-7/21 of the Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Oil Carrier, Á, À AMS, À ACCU, VEC…
À A1, Oil Carrier, Á, À AMS, À ACCU, VEC-L…
Passenger Vessels
NOTATION
Passenger Vessel
DESCRIPTION
This notation is assigned to a vessels designed and constructed and specifically fitted for the carriage
of more than twelve (12) passengers. The ABS vessel type notation Passenger Vessel forms part
of the classification designation assigned to vessels built in accordance with the requirements of the
ABS Guide for Building and Classing Passenger Vessels.
REFERENCES
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Passenger Vessel, Á, À AMS…
Passenger Vessels
NOTATION
COMF
COMF+
DESCRIPTION
COMF is a notation assigned to a vessel complying with the minimum criteria for passenger
accommodations and the ambient environment (i.e., vibration, noise, indoor climate and lighting).
This notation is assigned to passenger vessels built in accordance with the requirements of the ABS
Guide for Passenger Comfort on Ships.
COMF+ is a notation assigned to a vessel complying with the minimum criteria for passenger
accommodations and the ambient environment (i.e. vibration, noise, indoor climate and lighting) and
additional criteria with respect to whole-body vibration, including motion sickness. This notation is
assigned to passenger vessels built in accordance with the requirements of the ABS Guide for
Passenger Comfort on Ships.
REFERENCES
Subsection 1/6 of the Guide for Passenger Comfort on Ships
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Passenger Vessel, Á, À AMS, À ACCU, COMF…
À A1, Passenger Vessel, Á, À AMS, À ACCU, COMF+…
Refrigerated Cargo Carriers
NOTATION
À IRCC
DESCRIPTION
The Integral Refrigerated Container Carrier notation IRCC indicates that a vessel is arranged for the
carriage of refrigerated containers of plug-in or integral types which have their own individually
mounted refrigeration machinery, hence requiring shipboard electrical power supply and in some
cases the cooling water supply for the condensers and, where fitted, the associated temperature
monitoring and control system and that such arrangements are in accordance with the applicable
requirements of Part 6, Chapter 2 of the ABS Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels.
REFERENCES
REMARKS
Example – À A1, À RCC, Á, À AMS, À IRCC…
NOTATION
À RC(Hold No.)
DESCRIPTION
The Refrigerated Cargo (Some Holds Only) notation RC(Hold No.) indicates that a vessel has some
holds provided with facilities to carry refrigerated cargoes and that such arrangements are in
accordance with the applicable requirements of Part 6, Chapter 2 of the ABS Rules for Building and
Classing Steel Vessels.
REFERENCES
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Á, À AMS, À RC(Hold Nos. 5 & 6)…
NOTATION
À RCC
À RCCC
DESCRIPTION
The Refrigerated Cargo Carrier notation. RCC indicates that a vessel is arranged for the carriage of
refrigerated cargoes in insulated holds and that such arrangements are in accordance with the
applicable requirements of Part 6, Chapter 2 of the ABS Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels.
The Refrigerated Cargo Container Carrier. notation RCCC indicates that a vessel is arranged for the
carriage of refrigerated containers of the porthole type, individually cooled by shipboard refrigeration
machinery and associated systems, and that such arrangements are in accordance with the applicable
REFERENCES
RCC
RCCC
REMARKS
Example – À A1, À RCC, Á, À AMS …
À A1, À RCCC, Á, À AMS …
NOTATION
À REBLT
DESCRIPTION
The Refrigerated Edible Bulk Liquid Tanker notation REBLT indicates that a vessel is arranged for
the carriage of edible liquid products in bulk in refrigerated cargo tanks cooled by shipboard
refrigeration machinery and associated systems; and that such arrangements are in accordance with
the applicable requirements of Part 6, Chapter 2 of the ABS Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels.
REFERENCES
REMARKS
Example – À A1, À REBLT, Á, À AMS …
NOTATION
À RFC
DESCRIPTION
The Refrigerated Fish Carrier notation RFC indicates that a fish processing or fish storage vessel is
provided with facilities for chilling, cooling, or freezing and/or storage of fish in refrigerated cargo
holds cooled by the vessel’s own shipboard refrigeration machinery and associated systems and that
such arrangements are in accordance with the applicable requirements of Part 6, Chapter 2 of the ABS
Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels.
REFERENCES
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Á, À AMS, À ACCU, À RFC…
NOTATION
RMC
DESCRIPTION
The Refrigeration Machinery Certified notation RMC indicates that an existing vessel is fitted with
the arrangements necessary for the carriage of refrigerated cargoes which were not constructed and
installed under ABS survey; but complies with Part 4, Section 12 of the ABS Rules for Building and
Classing Steel Vessels (1997 edition).
REFERENCES
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Á, À AMS, À ACCU, RMC…
NOTATION
À APLUS
DESCRIPTION
The Automatic Pallet Loading/Unloading System notation APLUS indicates that a refrigerated cargo
vessel is fitted with a system for automatic cargo loading and unloading a refrigerated hold through
automatic pallet handling, stack and security systems together with a monitoring and control system
and that the arrangements are in accordance with the applicable requirements of Part 6, Chapter 2 of
the ABS Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels.
REFERENCES
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Á, À AMS, À APLUS…
NOTATION
À ASLS, or
À SASLS
DESCRIPTION
The Automatic Side Loading pallet handling System notation ASLS indicates that a refrigerated
cargo vessel is fitted with a system whereby the cargo is loaded into and unloaded from a refrigerated
hold through an automatic side loading pallet handling system together with a monitoring and control
system; and that the arrangements are in accordance with the applicable requirements of Part 6,
Chapter 2 of the ABS Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels, or.
The Semi-Automatic Side Loading pallet handling System notation SASLS indicates that a
refrigerated cargo vessel is fitted with a system whereby the cargo is loaded into and unloaded from a
refrigerated hold through a semi-automatic side loading pallet handling system together with a
monitoring and control system; and that the arrangements are in accordance with the applicable
REFERENCES
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Á, À AMS, À ASLS… or
À A1, Á, À AMS, À SASLS…
NOTATION
À CA
DESCRIPTION
The Controlled Atmosphere notation CA indicates that a refrigerated cargo vessel is fitted with
equipment and systems for supplying Nitrogen or equivalent gas to cargo holds, including associated
safety features, in accordance with the applicable requirements of Part 6, Chapter 2 of the ABS Rules
for Building and Classing Steel Vessels.
REFERENCES
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Á, À AMS, À CA (date of survey)…
NOTATION
À CA (INST)
DESCRIPTION
The Controlled Atmosphere (Installation) notation CA (INST) indicates that a refrigerated cargo
vessel is fitted with a permanently installed piping system which is ready for connection to portable
controlled atmosphere generating equipment and that the arrangements and safety features are in
Classing Steel Vessels.
REFERENCES
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Á, À AMS, À CA (INST)…
NOTATION
(F)
DESCRIPTION
The Fruit Carrier notation (F) is assigned to refrigerated cargo or container vessels suitably designed
for the carriage of fruit in hold spaces or containers when such arrangements are in accordance with
the applicable requirements of Part 6, Chapter 2 of the ABS Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels.
REFERENCES
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Á, À AMS, (F)…
SWATH Vessels
NOTATION
SWATH Vessel
DESCRIPTION
The SWATH notation is assigned to vessels built in accordance to the requirements of the ABS Guide
for Building and Classing SWATH Vessels, and which are approved by the Committee for unrestricted
ocean service at the assigned freeboards.
REFERENCES
1/3.3 of the Guide for Building and Classing SWATH Vessels
REMARKS
Example – À A1, SWATH, À AMS…
Vehicle Carriers
NOTATION
Vehicle Carrier
DESCRIPTION
This notation is assigned to a vessel designed and constructed to carry roll-on/roll-off cargoes,
including vehicles, cargoes on pallets or in containers and loaded and unloaded by wheeled vehicles,
on exposed or enclosed single deck or multiple exposed/enclosed decks, e.g. pure car carrier, roll-
on/roll-off ship, trailer ship, etc. The ABS vessel type notation Vehicle Carrier forms part of the
classification designation assigned to vessels built in accordance with the requirements of Section
5C-10-2 and other relevant sections of the ABS Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels.
REFERENCES
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Vehicle Carrier, Á, À AMS…
Vehicle Carriers
NOTATION
Vehicle Passenger Ferry
DESCRIPTION
This notation is assigned to a vessel designed and constructed and fitted for the transportation of
vehicles and more than twelve (12) passengers, including a ship carrying commercial vehicles and
accompanying personnel. Also may be referred to as a ro-ro passenger ferry. The ABS vessel type
notation Vehicle Passenger Ferry forms part of the classification designation assigned to vessels
built in accordance with the requirements of Section 5C-10-3 and other relevant sections of the ABS
Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels including the applicable safety requirements of the ABS
Guide for Building and Classing Passenger Vessels.
REFERENCES
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Vehicle Passenger Ferry, Á, À AMS…
Water Carriers
NOTATION
Water Carrier
DESCRIPTION
This notation is assigned to a vessel that is designed and constructed and specifically fitted for the
carriage of water cargo in bulk in cargo tanks. The ABS vessel type notation Water Carrier forms
part of the classification designation assigned to vessels built in accordance with the requirements of
the ABS Guide for Building and Classing Vessels Intended to Carry Water.
REFERENCES
1.1 of the Guides for Building and Classing Vessels Intended to Carry Water
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Water Carrier, Á, À AMS…
Steel Vessels < 90 m (295 ft)
NOTATION
(Operational Area) Domestic Service
DESCRIPTION
This notation is assigned to vessels built in accordance with Appendix 1 of the ABS Rules for
Building and Classing Steel Vessels Under 90 meters (295 feet) in Length for restricted domestic
service, with the restricted area being specified in the class designation.
REFERENCES
Part 5, Appendix 1 of the Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels Under 90 Meters (295 Feet) in Length
REMARKS
Example – À A1 U.S. Domestic Service, Á, À AMS…
NOTATION
Escort Vessel
Escort Vessel (dual purpose)
DESCRIPTION
Escort Vessel – A vessel intended to provide assistance to disabled vessels in emergencies
involving impaired maneuverability due to loss of propulsion or steering or both. Such vessels
complying with the requirements in Part 5, Chapter 13 of the ABS Rules for Building and Classing
Steel Vessels Under 90 meters (295 feet) in Length will be distinguished by the classification designation
Escort Vessel
Escort Vessel (dual purpose) – This notation is to be assigned to Dual Purpose vessels designed
and built to the requirements of Part 5, Chapter 13 of ABS Rules for Building and Classing Steel
Vessels Under 90 meters (295 feet) in Length as well as requirements in applicable sections of the
Rules for the dual purpose notation.
REFERENCES
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Escort Vessel, Á, À AMS…
À A1, Escort Vessel (Fire Fighting Vessel Class 2), Á, À AMS…
NOTATION
(Fire Fighting Capability)
DESCRIPTION
A special classification designation given to vessels which have special fire fighting capabilities in
addition to their regular service but are not specifically built for the service intended to be covered by
Part 5, Chapter 9 of the ABS Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels Under 90 meters (295 feet)
in Length (i.e. Fire Fighting Vessel Class 1, 2 or 3). Such vessels complying with these special
requirements may be distinguished with their assigned designation followed by the special designation
(Fire Fighting Capability).
REFERENCES
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Towing Vessel (Fire Fighting Capability), Á, À AMS…
NOTATION
Fire Fighting Vessel Class 1
DESCRIPTION
Fire Fighting Vessel Class 1 (FFV Class 1) – A Classification notation indicating that a vessel
has the capability to fight external fires and is fitted with a water spray protection system for cooling
the vessel’s surface to enable close operation for early stages of fire fighting and rescue operations;
and that the systems are in accordance with the applicable requirements of Part 5, Chapter 9 of the
ABS Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels Under 90 meters (295 feet) in Length. Minimum
fire fighting equipment includes two (2) water monitors capable of discharging 1200 m3/hr each.
is fitted with arrangements to continuously fight large fires and has the ability to maintain station
while fire fighting monitors are in full operation; and that the systems are in accordance with the
applicable requirements of Part 5, Chapter 9 of the ABS Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels
Under 90 meters (295 feet) in Length. Minimum fire fighting equipment includes three (3) water
monitors capable of discharging 2400 m3/hr each, or four (4) water monitors capable of discharging
1800 m3/hr each, plus foam generators.
is fitted with the necessary arrangements to be capable of fighting continuously, large fires and has the
ability to maintain station while fire fighting monitors are in full operation; and that the systems are in
Classing Steel Vessels Under 90 meters (295 feet) in Length. Minimum fire fighting equipment
includes four (4) water monitors capable of discharging 2400 m3/hr each, plus foam generators.
REFERENCES
Section 5-9-1 of the Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels Under 90 Meters (295 Feet) in Length
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Fire Fighting Vessel Class 1, Á, À AMS…
À A1, Fire Fighting Vessel Class 2, Á, À AMS…
À A1, Fire Fighting Vessel Class 3, Á, À AMS…
NOTATION
Fire Fighting Vessel Class 1 and Class 2
Fire Fighting Vessel Class 1 and Class 3
DESCRIPTION
Combined notations assigned to a vessel indicating compliance with the respective Class 1, 2 and 3
notation requirements, as applicable.
REFERENCES
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Fire Fighting Vessel Class 1 and Class 2, Á, À AMS…
À A1, Fire Fighting Vessel Class 1 and Class 3, Á, À AMS…
NOTATION
Fishing Vessel
Side Trawl
Stern Trawl
Torremolinos Convention
DESCRIPTION
Fishing Vessel is a vessel designed and constructed to commercially catch, take or harvest fish or
other living resources of the sea, including a fishing vessel that also processes its catch. A fishing
vessel complying with the requirements of Part 5, Chapter 14 of the ABS Rules for Building and
Classing Steel Vessels Under 90 meters (295 feet) in Length will be given the classification notation
of Fishing Vessel. In addition, an entry will also be made in the Record describing the vessel as
either Side Trawl or Stern Trawl, as applicable.
The notation Torremolinos Convention is assigned to fishing vessels to indicate that the fishing
vessel has been found to be in compliance with the provisions of the International Conference on
Safety of Fishing Vessels 1977/1993 Protocol.
REFERENCES
5-14-1/1 and 5-14-1/7 of the Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels Under 90 Meters (295 Feet) in Length
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Fishing Vessel – Side Trawl, À AMS… or
À A1, Fishing Vessel – Stern Trawl, À AMS…
and
À A1, Fishing Vessel – Torremolinos Convention, À AMS…
NOTATION
Offshore Support Vessel
Offshore Support Vessel, AH
Offshore Support Vessel, WS
DESCRIPTION
Offshore Support Vessel is a vessel primarily engaged in the transport of stores, materials and
equipment to offshore installations and are designed with accommodation and bridge erections in the
forward part of the vessel and an exposed cargo deck in the after part for handling of cargo at sea.
Offshore supply vessels built in accordance with the ABS Rules for Building and Classing Steel
Vessel Under 90 meters (295 feet) in Length including Part 5, Chapter 10 will be assigned the class
notation of Offshore Support Vessel.
Anchor Handling (AH) Service – An Offshore Support Vessel that is also designed and built for
anchor handling operations in accordance with the requirements of Section 5-10-4 of the ABS Rules
for Building and Classing Steel Vessels Under 90 meters (295 feet) in Length will be distinguished by
the class notation AH, i.e., Offshore Support Vessel, AH.
Well Stimulation (WS) Service – An Offshore Support Vessel that is also designed and built for
well stimulation operations in accordance with the requirements of Section 5-10-5 of the ABS Rules
for Building and Classing Steel Vessels Under 90 meters (295 feet) in Length will be distinguished by
the class notation WS, i.e., Offshore Support Vessel, WS.
REFERENCES
5-10-1/3, Section 5-10-4 and 5-10-4/1 of the Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels Under 90 Meters (295 Feet) in
Length
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Offshore Support Vessel, Á, À AMS… or
À A1, Offshore Support Vessel, AH, Á, À AMS… or
À A1, Offshore Support Vessel, WS, Á, À AMS…
NOTATION
(Oil Recovery Capability Class 1)
(Oil Recovery Capability Class 2)
DESCRIPTION
A tugboat, supply vessel and other similar vessels designed and built in accordance with the requirements
of the ABS Guide for Vessels with Oil Recovery Capabilities which are intended for service in the
event of oil spills and are equipped for the storage of recovered oil floating on the sea will be
distinguished by the classification designation of Oil Recovery Capability together with the appropriate
additional notation of Class 1 or Class 2 depending on the flash point of the oil to be recovered.
Vessels intended to recover oil of unknown flash point will be given the Class 1 notation. Vessels
intended to recover oil having a flash point exceeding 60°C (140°F) will be given the Class 2 notation.
REFERENCES
Section 1 of the Guide for Vessels with Oil Recovery Capabilities
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Towing Vessel (Oil Recovery Capability Class 1), Á, À AMS… or
À A1, Towing Vessel (Oil Recovery Capability Class 2), Á, À AMS…
NOTATION
Oil Recovery Vessel Class 1
Oil Recovery Vessel Class 2
DESCRIPTION
A vessel designed and built in accordance with the requirements of Part 5, Chapter 11 of the ABS
Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels Under 90 meters (295 feet) in Length for the recovery
of oil having varying flash points will be distinguished by the classification designation of Oil
Recovery Vessel together with the appropriate additional notation of Class 1 or Class 2 depending
on the flash point of the oil to be recovered. Vessels intended to recover oil of unknown flash point
will be given the Class 1 notation. Vessels intended to recover oil having a flash point exceeding
60°C (140°F) will be given the Class 2 notation.
REFERENCES
5-11-1/1.1 and 5-11-1/1.3 of the Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels Under 90 Meters (295 Feet) in Length
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Oil Recovery Vessel Class 1, Á, À AMS… or
À A1, Oil Recovery Vessel Class 2, Á, À AMS…
NOTATION
Safety Standby Service
GR A – (N)
GR B – (N)
GR C – (N)
DESCRIPTION
Safety Standby Service – A Classification notation assigned to a vessel built in accordance with
the ABS Rules for unrestricted service, as well as the additional requirements pertaining to special
features considered necessary for the evacuation and reception of personnel from an offshore installation
and the rescue and care of persons from another vessel or the sea as found in Part 5, Chapter 12 of the
ABS Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels Under 90 meters (295 feet) in Length. In addition,
the class designation will include a notation that will signify the number of survivors the vessel has
been certified to accommodate, i.e., GR A – (N), GR B – (N) or GR C – (N).
GR A – (N), GR B – (N), GR C – (N) – These notations are assigned to Safety Standby Service
vessels, indicating the class designation together with the number of survivors (N), the vessel has been
certified to accommodate. Group A (GR A) includes a number of survivors greater than 300, Group B
(GR B) equal to or greater than 20 and less than or equal to 300 and Group C (GR C) less than 20.
REFERENCES
5-12-1/1and 5-12-2/1 of the Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels Under 90 Meters (295 Feet) in Length
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Safety Standby Service, GR A – (320), Á, À AMS…
NOTATION
Towing Vessel
BP (xx)
QR
DESCRIPTION
Towing Vessel is a classification notation assigned to vessels designed primarily for towing service
and built to the requirements of Part 5, Chapter 8 of the ABS Rules for Building and Classing Steel
Vessels Under 90 meters (295 feet) in Length It is also the classification designation given to a tug that
has the capability to separate from the barge of a tug-barge combination and shift to towing by hawser.
Bollard Pull (BP (xx)) – A notation assigned to a Towing Vessel indicating the static Bollard Pull
determined by an approved bollard pull test in the presence of a the Surveyor. The magnitude of the
bollard pull obtained during the test will be included in the ( ) in long tons.
Quick Release (QR) – A notation assigned to a Towing Vessel indicating that it has a remotely
controlled Quick Release device for the towing hook or towing winch; and that the arrangements are
in accordance with 5-8-1/5.1 of the ABS Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels Under 90
meters (295 feet) in Length.
REFERENCES
5-8-1/3, 5-8-1/3.1.1 and 5-8-1/9, and 5-8-1/5.1 of the Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels Under 90 Meters (295
Feet) in Length
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Towing Vessel, Á, À AMS, QR, BP(xx)…
NOTATION
Towing Vessel Great Lakes Service, DM
Towing Vessel Great Lakes Service, PM
DESCRIPTION
Integrated Tug-Barge (ITB) – Towing Vessel – Dual Mode (Articulated Connection)

The tug will be classed and distinguished in the Record by the notation Towing Vessel Great
Lakes Service, DM, which is in full compliance with the requirements of the Part 5, Chapter 8 of
the ABS Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels Under 90 meters (295 feet) in Length, and
signifies that the vessel has the Dual Mode (DM) capabilities, pushing the barge in an Integrated Tug-
Barge (ITB) mode and towing the barge by hawser in a separate mode.
Barge
The barge will be classed and distinguished in the Record by the symbols and notations in accordance
with 1-1-2/3 of the ABS Rules for Building and Classing Steel Barges followed by the geographical/
operational limitation, Great Lakes Service, DM.
Integrated Towing Vessel – Pushing Mode (Rigid Connection)

The tug will be classed and distinguished in the Record by the notation Towing Vessel Great
Lakes Service, PM. This class notation will be assigned to a tug which does not meet the
requirements for intact stability during tow as specified in the Part 5, Chapter 8, Section 2 of the ABS
Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels Under 90 meters (295 feet) in Length, but does meet the
requirements of the rest of the above Rules, and is intended to operate in a Pushing Mode (PM) only
and remain fixed to the barge throughout the voyage under all weather conditions.
Barge
The barge will be classed and distinguished in the Record by the symbols and notations in accordance
with 1-1-2/3 of the ABS Rules for Building and Classing Steel Barges followed by the geographical/
operational limitation, Great Lakes Service, PM.
REFERENCES
1.1.1 and 1.1.3 (DM) and 1.1.2 and 1.1.3 (PM) of the Guide for Building and Classing Integrated Tug-Barge (ITB)
Combinations to Operate on the Great Lakes
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Towing Vessel Great Lakes Service, DM, Á, À AMS…
À A1, Towing Vessel Great Lakes Service, PM, Á, À AMS…
NOTATION
HAB(WB)
HAB+(WB)
DESCRIPTION
HAB(WB) – This notation is assigned to vessel (offshore support vessels, tug boats, tow boats,
dredges, research vessels, or special purpose vessels, etc.), which are complying with the minimum
criteria for crew accommodations and ambient environment (vibration, noise, indoor climate, and
lighting) as included in the ABS Guide for Crew Habitability on Workboats.
HAB+(WB) – This notation is assigned to vessels (offshore support vessels, tug boats, tow boats,
dredges, research vessels, or special purpose vessels, etc.) which are complying with more stringent
habitability criteria with respect to crew accommodation, whole-body vibration and indoor climate
included in the ABS Guide for Crew Habitability on Workboats.
REFERENCES
Subsection 1/6 of the Guide for Crew Habitability on Workboats
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Towing Vessel, Á, À AMS, HAB(WB)…
À A1, Offshore Support Vessel, Á, À AMS, HAB+(WB)…
NOTATION
RB
DESCRIPTION
This notation is assigned to vessels less than 90 meters (295 feet) in length which have successfully
undergone the necessary survey, analysis and repair to enable a vessel to continue actively working
past its normal life (20-25 years) as required by the ABS Guide for Rebuilding Vessels Less than 90 meters
(295 feet) in Length.
REFERENCES
1/1 of the Guide for Rebuilding Vessels Less than 90 meters (295 feet) in Length
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Towing Vessel Á, À AMS, RB…
High Speed Craft
NOTATION
HSC
DESCRIPTION
High Speed Craft (HSC) – This notation is assigned to craft that have been built in accordance with
the ABS Guide for Building and Classing High-Speed Craft, or equivalent. Where approved by the
Committee, for unrestricted ocean service, such craft will be distinguished in the Record by the
symbols À A1 HSC À AMS indicating compliance with the hull and machinery requirements of the
Guide.
This notation for High Speed Craft (HSC) is to be assigned to the following craft designed and built
to the requirements of the ABS Guide for Building and Classing High Speed Craft.
Mono-hull Length of Craft ( L) < 130 m (427 ft)
Multi-hull L < 100 m (328 ft)
Surface Effects Ship (SES) L < 90 m (295 ft)
Hydro Foil L < 60 m (197 ft)
REFERENCES
REMARKS
Example – À A1, HSC, Á, À AMS…
High Speed Craft
NOTATION
HSC Passenger Craft (A)
HSC Passenger Craft (B)
HSC Ro-Ro Passenger Craft (A)
HSC Ro-Ro Passenger Craft (B)
HSC Cargo Craft
DESCRIPTION
These notations are assigned to craft that have been built in accordance with the requirements of the
ABS Guide for Building and Classing High-Speed Craft and the IMO HSC Code for special types of
craft and which are approved by the Committee for restricted ocean service at the assigned freeboards,
will be classed and distinguished in the Record by the symbols À A1 HSC followed by an
appropriate notation, i.e. Passenger Craft (A), etc.
The (A) and (B) indicate a craft defined as a Category A Passenger Craft and a Category B Passenger
Craft respectively in accordance with the IMO HSC Code. The notation “Cargo Craft” defines a
craft that is certified in accordance with the IMO HSC Code.
REFERENCES
1.4.13 and 1.4.51 of the IMO HSC Code
REMARKS
Example – À A1, HSC Passenger Craft (A), Á, À AMS…
High Speed Craft
NOTATION
HSC Crewboat
DESCRIPTION
The notation HSC Crewboat is assigned to a craft that is designed and constructed and specifically
fitted for the transferring/transporting of industrial personnel in the offshore oil and gas industry
between a shore base and offshore installations and vice versa. These craft may also carry cargo. The
ABS craft type notation HSC Crewboat forms part of the classification designation assigned to craft
built in accordance with the requirements of Supplement No. 1 – Part 5, Section 2 of the Guide for
Building and Classing High Speed Craft.
REFERENCES
Part 5, Section 2 of the Supplement No. 1 to the Guide for Building and Classing High Speed Craft
REMARKS
Example – À A1, HSC Crewboat, À AMS…
High Speed Craft
NOTATION
HSC (special purpose)
DESCRIPTION
This notation is assigned to special purpose craft, which have been built to the satisfaction of the ABS
Surveyors to arrangements and scantlings approved for the particular purpose. Where approved by the
Committee for the particular service, such craft will be classed and distinguished in the Record by the
symbols À A1 HSC followed by a description of the service for which special modifications to the
ABS Guide for Building and Classing High-Speed Craft have been approved, e.g., Government
Service, etc.
REFERENCES
REMARKS
Example – À A1, HSC Government Service, À AMS…
High Speed Craft
NOTATION
HHP
SHHP
DESCRIPTION
High Holding Power (HHP) – This notation for anchors is assigned for specially designed anchor for
which proven holding power is not less than two times of an ordinary stockless anchor.
Super High Holding Power (SHHP) – This notation for anchors is assigned for specially designed
anchor for which proven holding power is not less than four times of an ordinary stockless anchor.
REFERENCES
3/22.11.2 and 3/22.11.3 of the Guide for Building and Classing High Speed Craft
REMARKS
Example – À A1, HSC, Á, HHP, À AMS…
À A1, HSC, Á, SHHP, À AMS…
High Speed Craft
NOTATION
SH-DLA
DESCRIPTION
SafeHull Dynamic Load Approach (SH-DLA) – This notation is assigned to high speed craft to
provide enhanced structural analyses to assess the capabilities and sufficiency of a structural design. A
fundamental requirement of SH-DLA is that the preliminary design of the structure be in accordance
with the ABS Guide for Building and Classing High-Speed Craft criteria.
REFERENCES
Subsection 1/3 of the Guidance Notes on Dynamic Loading Approach and Direct Analysis for High Speed Craft
REMARKS
Example – À A1, HSC, Á, À AMS, SH-DLA…
High Speed Craft – Naval Services
NOTATION
HSC Naval Craft
HSC Coastal Naval Craft
HSC Riverine Naval Craft
DESCRIPTION
HSC Naval Craft – This notation is assigned to naval vessels that have been built in accordance with
the ABS Guide for Building and Classing High-Speed Naval Craft, or equivalent and approved by the
Committee. Such craft will be distinguished in the Record by the symbols À A1 HSC Naval Craft
À AMS indicating compliance with the hull and machinery requirements of this Guide. Naval Craft
notation is to be assigned to naval vessels that are intended to operate in the littoral environment, but
are capable of open ocean voyages. Naval craft are limited to a maximum voyage of 300 miles from a
safe harbor when operating in the Winter Seasonal Zones as indicated in Annex II of the International
Conference on Load Lines, 1966. When operating on an open ocean voyage, craft are to avoid
tropical cyclones and other severe weather events.
HSC Coastal Naval Craft – This notation is to be assigned to naval vessels that are intended to
operate on a coastal voyage with a maximum distance from safe harbor of 300 miles and a maximum
voyage of 150 miles from a safe harbor when operating in the Winter Seasonal Zones as indicated in
Annex II of the International Conference on Load Lines, 1966. Coastal Naval Craft are not permitted
to perform transoceanic movements.
HSC Riverine Naval Craft – This notation is to be assigned to naval vessels that are intended to
operate in rivers, harbors, and coastlines with a maximum distance from safe harbor of 50 miles.
Riverine Naval Craft are not permitted to perform transoceanic movements.
REFERENCES
1-1-3/5 and 1-1-3/TableB of the Guide for Building and Classing High Speed Naval Craft
REMARKS
Example – À A1, HSC Naval Craft, À AMS…
À A1, HSC Coastal Naval Craft, À AMS…
À A1, HSC Riverine Naval Craft, À AMS…
NOTATION
OE
DESCRIPTION
Operational Envelope (OE) – This notation is assigned to craft for which the structure has been
reviewed based on the limitations given in a particular operational envelope. The operational envelope
is given in terms of speed and significant wave height in the most unfavorable combination of length
and direction of the wave. The operational envelope (OE) is to be part of the Operating Manual for
the craft for use in determining the maximum operational speeds for the various sea-states in which
the craft is intended to operate, in conjunction with the OE notation.
REFERENCES
1-1-3/Table C of the Guide for Building and Classing High Speed Naval Craft
REMARKS
Example – À A1, HSC Coastal Naval Craft, OE, À AMS …
NOTATION
SH-DLA
DESCRIPTION
SafeHull Dynamic Load Approach (SH-DLA) – This notation is assigned to high speed craft to
provide enhanced structural analyses to assess the capabilities and sufficiency of a structural design. A
fundamental requirement of SH-DLA is that the preliminary design of the structure be in accordance
with the ABS Guide for Building and Classing High-Speed Naval Craft criteria.
REFERENCES
3-1-3 of the Guide for Building and Classing High Speed Naval Craft
Subsection 1/3 of the Guidance Notes on Dynamic Loading Approach and Direct Analysis for High Speed Craft
REMARKS
Example – À A1, HSC Naval Craft, À AMS, SH-DLA…
Yachting Service
NOTATION
Yachting Service
DESCRIPTION
This notation is assigned to vessels designed and built in accordance with the ABS Guide for Building
and Classing Motor Pleasure Yachts and also the ABS Rules for Reinforced Plastic Vessels.
REFERENCES
1/11.1 of the Guide for Building and Classing Motor Pleasure Yachts
1.6 of the Rules for Building and Classing Reinforced Plastic Vessels
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Yachting Service, À AMS…
Yachting Service
NOTATION
Commercial Yachting Service
DESCRIPTION
This notation is assigned to vessels designed and built in accordance with the ABS Guide for Building
and Classing Motor Pleasure Yachts that are chartered as motor yachts and are not considered by the
Administration to be passenger vessels, do not carry more than 12 charter guests and do not carry cargo.
REFERENCES
1/1.4 of the Guide for Building and Classing Motor Pleasure Yachts (Notice No. 2)
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Commercial Yachting Service, À AMS…
Yachting Service
NOTATION
Offshore Racing Yacht
DESCRIPTION
This notation is assigned to offshore racing yachts of 24 meters (80 feet) or greater in length overall to
30.5 meters (100 feet) in scantling length which have been built to the satisfaction of the Surveyor to
the full requirements of the ABS Guide for Building and Classing Offshore Racing Yachts, or equivalent.
REFERENCES
1.3.1 of the Guide for Building and Classing Offshore Racing Yachts
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Offshore Racing Yacht…
Yachting Service
NOTATION
COMF(Y)
COMF+(Y)
DESCRIPTION
COMF(Y) is a notation assigned to a yacht complying with the minimum criteria for Owner/guest
accommodations and the ambient environment (i.e., vibration, noise, indoor climate and lighting).
This notation is assigned to yachts built in accordance with the requirements of the ABS Guide for the
Class Notation Comfort – Yacht (COMF(Y)) And Comfort Plus – Yacht (COMF+(Y)).
COMF+(Y) is a notation assigned to a yacht complying with the minimum criteria for Owner/guest
accommodations and the ambient environment (i.e. vibration, noise, indoor climate and lighting) and
additional criteria with respect to whole-body vibration, including motion sickness. This notation is
assigned to yachts built in accordance with the requirements of the ABS Guide for the Class Notation
Comfort – Yacht (COMF(Y)) And Comfort Plus – Yacht (COMF+(Y)).
REFERENCES
Subsection 1/9 of the Guide for the Class Notation Comfort – Yacht (COMF(Y)) and Comfort Plus – Yacht (COMF+(Y))
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Yachting Service, À AMS, COMF(Y)…
À A1, Yachting Service, À AMS, COMF+(Y)…
Barges – Ocean Services
NOTATION
Barge
DESCRIPTION
This notation is assigned to barges designed and built in accordance with the ABS Rules for Building
and Classing Steel Barges and intended to carry variety of cargoes as stated by the Rules.
REFERENCES
1-1-2/3.1 of the Rules for Building and Classing Steel Barges
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Barge…
NOTATION
Chemical Tank Barge
DESCRIPTION
This notation is assigned to barges built in accordance with the ABS Rules for Building and Classing
Steel Barges and intended to carry dangerous chemicals.
REFERENCES
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Chemical Tank Barge…
NOTATION
Fuel Oil Tank Barge
DESCRIPTION
Steel Barges and intended to carry petroleum products with flash point above 60°C (140°F) (closed
cup test).
REFERENCES
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Fuel Oil Tank Barge…
NOTATION
Fuel Oil or Chemical Tank Barge
DESCRIPTION
Steel Barges and intended to carry petroleum products or dangerous chemicals, but not at the same
time, as stated in 1-1-2/3.5 and 1-1-2/3.7 of the Rules.
REFERENCES
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Fuel Oil or Chemical Tank Barge…
NOTATION
Fuel Oil and Chemical Tank Barge
DESCRIPTION
Steel Barges and intended to carry petroleum products and dangerous chemicals, at the same time, as
stated in 1-1-2/3.5 and 1-1-2/3.7 of the Rules.
REFERENCES
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Fuel Oil and Chemical Tank Barge…
NOTATION
Independent Tank Barge
DESCRIPTION
Steel Barges and intended to carry cargo in independent tanks with a working pressure below 2.06 bar
(2.1 kgf/cm2, 30 psi).
REFERENCES
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Independent Tank Barge…
NOTATION
LASH Barge
DESCRIPTION
Lighter Aboard SHip Barge – This notation is assigned to steel barges, which have no loadline
certificate, and are intended to be carried aboard a vessel.
REFERENCES
7-2-1/1 of the Rules for Survey After Construction
REMARKS
Example – À A1, LASH Barge…
NOTATION
Liquefied Gas Tank Barge
DESCRIPTION
Steel Barges, and intended to carry liquid gases such as these indicated in the International Code for
the Construction and Equipment of Ships Carrying Liquid Gases in Bulk.
REFERENCES
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Liquefied Gas Tank Barge…
NOTATION
Oil Tank Barge
DESCRIPTION
Steel Barges, and intended to carry petroleum products with flash point at or below 60°C (140°F),
closed cup test.
REFERENCES
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Oil Tank Barge…
NOTATION
Oil or Chemical Tank Barge
DESCRIPTION
Steel Barges, and intended to carry petroleum products or dangerous chemicals, but not at the same
time, as stated in 1-1-2/3.5 and 1-1-2/3.7 of the Rules.
REFERENCES
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Oil or Chemical Tank Barge…
NOTATION
Oil and Chemical Tank Barge
DESCRIPTION
Steel Barges, and intended to carry petroleum products and dangerous chemicals, at the same time, as
stated in 1-1-2/3.5 and 1-1-2/3.7 of the Rules.
REFERENCES
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Oil and Chemical Tank Barge…
NOTATION
Pressure Tank Barge
DESCRIPTION
Steel Barges, and intended to carry cargo in independent tanks with a working pressure at 2.06 bar
(2.1 kgf/cm2, 30 psi) or above.
REFERENCES
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Pressure Tank Barge…
NOTATION
Tank Barge
DESCRIPTION
Steel Barges, which are intended to carry liquid in bulk.
REFERENCES
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Tank Barge…
NOTATION
Accommodation Barge
Hotel Barge
DESCRIPTION
Accommodation Barge – This notation is assigned to barges designed and built to the ABS
Preliminary Rules for Accommodation Barges and Hotel Barges.
Hotel Barge – This notation is assigned to barges designed and built to the ABS Preliminary Rules
for Accommodation Barges and Hotel Barges.
REFERENCES
1.19 of the Preliminary Rules for Accommodation Barge and Hotel Barges
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Accommodation Barge…
À A1, Hotel Barge…
NOTATION
VEC
VEC-L
DESCRIPTION
Vapor Emission Control (VEC) – The notation VEC is assigned to indicate that an Oil Tank Barge or
Fuel Oil Tank Barge is fitted with a vapor emission control system; and that the system is in accordance
with the applicable requirements of 5-2-3/7 of the ABS Rules for Building and Classing Steel Barges
for this notation
Vapor Emission Control-Lightering (VEC-L) – The notation VEC-L is assigned to indicate that an
Oil Tank Barge or Fuel Oil Tank Barge is fitted with a vapor emission control system that is also
suitable for use during lightering operations; and that the system is in accordance with the applicable
requirements of 5-2-3/7.21 of the ABS Rules for Building and Classing Steel Barges for this notation.
REFERENCES
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Oil Tank Barge, Á, VEC…
À A1, Oil Tank Barge, Á, VEC-L…
Rivers and Intracoastal Services
NOTATION
Barge, River Service
Chemical Tank Barge, River Service (Type I, II & III)
Oil Tank Barge, River Service
Passenger Vessel, River Service
Towing Vessel, River Service, etc.
DESCRIPTION
These notations are assigned to vessels (barges, chemical tank barges, oil tank barges, passenger
vessels, towing vessels, etc.) in compliance with ABS Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels
for Rivers and Intracoastal Waterways.
REFERENCES
1-1-2/3 and 3-2-5/3 of the Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels for Rivers and Intracoastal Waterways
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Passenger Vessel, River Service, Á, À AMS… or
À A1, Oil Tank Barge, River Service…
NOTATION
Berthed Passenger Vessel, River Service
DESCRIPTION
This notation is assigned to passenger vessels not intended for temporary mooring, in compliance with
3-5-1/1.3 of the ABS Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels for Rivers and Intracoastal
Waterways.
REFERENCES
3-5-1/1.3 of the Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels for Rivers and Intracoastal Waterways
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Berthed Passenger Vessel, River Service, À AMS… or
NOTATION
Floating Dry Dock
DESCRIPTION
This notation is to be assigned a floating dry dock over 61 m (200 ft) in length built under the
supervision of ABS Surveyors for compliance with the requirements of the ABS Rules for Building
and Classing Steel Floating Dry Docks.
REFERENCES
1-1-2/1 of the Rules for Building and Classing Steel Floating Dry Docks
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Floating Dry Dock…
Rivers and Intracoastal Services, (Great Lakes)
NOTATION
DM
PM
DESCRIPTION
Dual Mode (DM) – This notation will be assigned to tugs, which are in full compliance with the
requirements of the Part 5, Chapter 8 of the ABS Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels Under
90 Meters (295 feet) in Length, and signifies that the vessels have the dual mode (DM) capabilities,
pushing barges in ITB mode and towing barges by hawser in a separate mode. The tug will be classed
and distinguished in the Record by the notation À A1 Towing Vessel Great Lakes Service, DM.
Similarly, the barge will be classed and distinguished in the Record by appropriate notation followed
by Great Lakes Service, DM.
The tug and the barge are to be classed as two separate vessels but will be cross-referenced in the Record.
Pushing Mode (PM) – This notation will be assigned to tugs, which do not meet the requirements for
intact stability during tow as specified in the Part 5, Chapter 8, Section 2 of the ABS Rules for
Building and Classing Steel Vessels Under 90 Meters (295 feet) in Length, but do meet the requirements
of the rest of the above Rules, and are intended to operate in a pushing mode (PM) only and remain
fixed to the barges throughout the voyage under all weather conditions. The tug will be classed and
distinguished in the Record by the notation À A1 Towing Vessel Great Lakes Service, PM.
Similarly, the barge will be classed and distinguished in the Record by appropriate notation followed
by Great Lakes Service, PM.
The tug and the barge are to be classed as two separate vessels but will be cross-referenced in the Record.
REFERENCES
DM
1/1.1.1 and 1/1.1.3 of the Guide for Building and Classing ITB Combinations Intended to Operate on the Great Lakes
PM
1/1.1.2 and 1/1.1.3 of the Guide for Building and Classing ITB Combinations Intended to Operate on the Great Lakes
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Oil Tank Barge, Great Lakes Service, DM…
À A1, Tank Barge, Great Lakes Service, PM…
Underwater Vehicles and Systems
NOTATION
Diving Bell
Submersible
Passenger Submersible
Personnel Capsule
Habitat, etc.
DESCRIPTION
These notations are to be assigned for manned or occasionally manned underwater vehicles, underwater
facilities hyperbaric facilities and diving simulators which have been built to the satisfaction of ABS
surveyors to the full requirements of ABS Rules for Underwater Vehicles, Systems and Hyperbaric
Facilities, or their equivalent where approved by the ABS Classification Committee for the service.
REFERENCES
1/3.1 of the Rules for Building and Classing Underwater Vehicles, Systems and Hyperbaric Facilities
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Diving Bell…
À A1, Submersible…
À A1, Passenger Submersible…
À A1, Personnel Capsule…
À A1, Habitat…
NOTATION
Diving System
Underwater Complex, etc
DESCRIPTION
These notations are to be assigned for manned or occasionally manned components the meet the
requirements of ABS Rules for Underwater Vehicles, Systems and Hyperbaric Facilities (UWVS Rules),
and all other components are certified by ABS and are in full compliance with the UWVS Rules.
REFERENCES
1/3.3 of the Rules for Building and Classing Underwater Vehicles, Systems and Hyperbaric Facilities
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Diving System…
À A1, Underwater Complex…
NOTATION
Dive Control Station
Handling System
Remote Operated Vehicle, etc.
DESCRIPTION
These notations are to be assigned to underwater vehicles and underwater support components which
have been built to the satisfaction of ABS surveyors to the full requirements of ABS Rules for
Underwater Vehicles, Systems and Hyperbaric Facilities, or their equivalent.
REFERENCES
A1/1 of the Rules for Building and Classing Underwater Vehicles, Systems and Hyperbaric Facilities
REMARKS
Example – À Dive Control Station…
À Handling System…
À Remote Operated Vehicle…
Offshore Services
NOTATION
Accommodation Service
DESCRIPTION
This notation is to be assigned to a mobile offshore unit primarily intended for the accommodation of
more than 36 persons who are industrial personnel, engaged in some aspect of offshore or related
employment, excluding members of the crew. It denotes accommodation units designed and built in
accordance with the ABS Guide for Building and Classing Mobile Offshore Units.
REFERENCES
7-1/1 of the Guide for Building and Classing Mobile Offshore Units
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Column-Stabilized Unit, Accommodation Service…
Offshore Services
NOTATION
Barge Drilling Unit
DESCRIPTION
This notation is to be assigned to barge type, displacement hull offshore drilling units without propulsion
machinery. It denotes barge designed and built under ABS survey in accordance with the ABS Rules
for Building and Classing Mobile Offshore Drilling Units.
REFERENCES
1-1-3/1.5.2 of the Rules for Conditions of Classification – Offshore Units and Structures (Part 1)
3-1-1/3.5.2 of the Rules for Building and Classing Mobile Offshore Drilling Units
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Barge Drilling Unit…
Offshore Services
NOTATION
Cable Laying Service
DESCRIPTION
This notation is to be assigned to a mobile offshore unit primarily intended for subsea cable installation.
It denotes cable laying units designed and built in accordance with the ABS Guide for Building and
Classing Mobile Offshore Units.
REFERENCES
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Column-Stabilized Unit, Cable Laying Service…
Offshore Services
NOTATION
Column-Stabilized Drilling Unit
DESCRIPTION
This notation is assigned to a mobile offshore structure that depends upon the buoyancy of columns
for floatation and stability for all afloat modes of operation or raising and lowering the unit. It denotes
unit designed and built under ABS survey in accordance with the ABS Rules for Building and Classing
Mobile Offshore Drilling Units.
REFERENCES
1-1-3/1.3 of the Rules for Conditions of Classification – Offshore Units and Structures (Part 1)
3-1-1/3.3 of the Rules for Building and Classing Mobile Offshore Drilling Units
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Column-Stabilized Drilling Unit…
Offshore Services
NOTATION
Column-Stabilized Unit
DESCRIPTION
This notation is assigned to a mobile offshore structure capable of engaging in offshore operations
other than drilling, production, storage, or handling of hydrocarbons that depends upon the buoyancy
of columns for floatation and stability for all afloat modes of operation or raising and lowering the
unit. It denotes unit designed and built under ABS survey in accordance with the ABS Guide for
Building and Classing Mobile Offshore Units.
REFERENCES
1-2/1.3 and 2-1/5.3 of the Guide for Building and Classing Mobile Offshore Units
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Column-Stabilized Unit…
Offshore Services
NOTATION
Construction and Maintenance Service
DESCRIPTION
This notation is to be assigned to a mobile offshore unit primarily intended for construction and
maintenance activities in support of offshore mineral exploration and production operations. It denotes
construction and maintenance units designed and built in accordance with the ABS Guide for Building
and Classing Mobile Offshore Units.
REFERENCES
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Self-Elevating Unit, Construction and Maintenance Service…
Offshore Services
NOTATION
Crane Service
DESCRIPTION
This notation is to be assigned to a mobile offshore unit primarily intended for the lifting of heavy
loads in oil drilling and production operations, offshore construction and/or salvage operations, with a
lifting capacity of 160 metric tons and above. It denotes crane units designed and built in accordance
with the ABS Guide for Building and Classing Mobile Offshore Units.
REFERENCES
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Column-Stabilized Unit, Crane Service…
Offshore Services
NOTATION
Drilling Tender
DESCRIPTION
This notation is to be assigned to a mobile offshore unit primarily intended as support to an offshore
drilling platform. It may contain the power supply, circulating pumps (connected to the platform by
hoses) and storage tanks, drill pipe racks, casing, cement, storage space, living quarters and generally,
helicopter landing platform. It denotes drilling tenders designed and built in accordance with the ABS
Guide for Building and Classing Mobile Offshore Units.
REFERENCES
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Self-Elevating Unit, Drilling Tender…
Offshore Services
NOTATION
Drillship
DESCRIPTION
This notation is to be assigned to ship type, displacement hull offshore drilling units equipped with
propulsion machinery. It denotes unit designed and built under ABS survey in accordance with the
ABS Rules for Building and Classing Mobile Offshore Drilling Units.
REFERENCES
1-1-3/1.5.1 of the Rules for Conditions of Classification – Offshore Units and Structures (Part 1)
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Drillship, À AMS…
Offshore Services
NOTATION
Floating Offshore Installation (hull type)
DESCRIPTION
This notation is assigned where an installation is fitted with production facilities, but classification of
the production facilities is not desired, and certain systems and equipment for the production facilities
are to be in compliance with 4-1-1/3 of the ABS Guide for Building and Classing Floating Production
Installations. The installation will be classed and distinguished in the Record by the symbol À A1
followed by the notation Floating Offshore Installation (hull type), provided the installation and
position mooring system comply with the applicable requirements and the topside structures and
modules comply with Section 5A-1-5, 5B-1-2/1.3, 5B-3-3/5.3, 5B-2-3/5.1 or 5B-2-3/5.3 of the ABS
Guide for Building and Classing Floating Production Installations, as appropriate. The shipboard
systems, including the electrical system circuit protection for the production facilities and production
fire fighting equipment, are to be reviewed by ABS for the classification of the installation.
REFERENCES
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Floating Offshore Installation (TLP)…
Offshore Services
NOTATION
Floating Production, Storage and Offloading System (hull type)
DESCRIPTION
This notation is assigned to cover the hull structure of ship type displacement hull designed, (and other
hull configurations), equipment, and the marine machinery, position mooring system, and production
facility. This notation covers the following components:
i) Installation, including hull structure, equipment, and marine machinery under the above
notation, subject to the requirements of the ABS Guide for Building and Classing Floating
Production Installations.
ii) Position Mooring System according to the requirements of the ABS Guide for Building and
Classing Floating Production Installations.
iii) Production Facilities according to the requirements of the ABS Guide for Building and
Classing Facilities on Offshore Installations and the ABS Guide for Building and Classing
The service notation will be appended by one of the following (Ship-Type), (Column-Stabilized),
(TLP), or (SPAR) to indicate the hull type. The hull structural configurations of these installations
are described in Section 3-1-2 of the ABS Guide for Building and Classing Floating Production
Installations.
REFERENCES
1-3/5.1 of the Guide for Building and Classing Facilities on Offshore Installations
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Floating Production, Storage and Offloading System (Ship-Type), À
AMS…
Offshore Services
NOTATION
Floating Production (and Offloading) System (hull type)
DESCRIPTION
i) Installation, including hull structure, equipment, and marine machinery under one of the
above notations, subject to the requirements of the ABS Guide for Building and Classing
Installations.
REFERENCES
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Floating Production, (and Offloading) System (Column-Stabilized)…
Offshore Services
NOTATION
Floating Storage and Offloading System (hull type)
DESCRIPTION
i) Vessel, including hull structure, equipment, and marine machinery under one of the above
notations, subject to the requirements of the ABS Guide for Building and Classing Floating
Production Installations.
Installations.
REFERENCES
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Floating Storage and Offloading System (Ship-Type)…
Offshore Services
NOTATION
(Ship-Type)
(Column-Stabilized)
(TLP)
(SPAR)
DESCRIPTION
These notations are appended to the service notations Floating Production, Storage and
Offloading System, Floating Production (and Offloading) System, and Floating Storage
and Offloading System to indicate the hull type. They are defined as follows:
(Ship-Type) – Ship-type installations are single displacement hulls, either ship-shaped or barge-
shaped, which have been designed or converted to a floating production and/or storage system. They
may have propulsion machinery and/or station keeping systems.
(Column-Stabilized) – Column-stabilized installations consist of surface piercing columns, submerged
pontoons and a deck supported at column tops. Buoyancy is provided by the submerged pontoons,
surface piercing columns and braces, if any.
(TLP) – Tension leg platform (TLP) installations are vertically moored, buoyant structural systems
wherein the excess buoyancy of the platform maintains tension in the mooring system. The TLPs
consist of buoyant pontoons and columns, a column top frame or a topside deck and a tendon system
with its seafloor foundations.
(SPAR) – Spar installations are deep draft, vertical floating structures, usually of cylindrical shape,
supporting a topside deck and moored to the seafloor. The hull can be divided into upper hull, mid-
section and lower hull.
REFERENCES
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Floating Production, Storage and Offloading System (Column-Stabilized),
À AMS…
Offshore Services
NOTATION
Liftboat
DESCRIPTION
This notation is assigned to liftboats which have been built to the satisfaction of the ABS Surveyor, to
the full requirements of the ABS Guide for Building and Classing Liftboats, or equivalent.
REFERENCES
1-1-2/1 of the Guide for Building and Classing Liftboats
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Liftboat, À AMS…
Offshore Services
NOTATION
Offshore Installation
Offshore Installation – Hydrocarbon Processing
Offshore Installation – Hydrocarbon Production
Offshore Installation – Electric Generating Plant (electric generating plant-export load)
Offshore Installation – Offshore Pipelines
Offshore Installation – Offshore Risers
Offshore Installation – Chemical Processing
Offshore Installation – Metals/Ore Processing
DESCRIPTION
The À A1 Offshore Installation notation is assigned to Offshore Installations that have been built
to the satisfaction of the ABS Surveyors, to the requirements as contained in the ABS Rules for
Building and Classing Offshore Installations.
Offshore Installations that have been built to the satisfaction of the ABS Surveyors, to the requirements
as contained in the ABS Guide for Building and Classing Facilities on Offshore Installations, the
ABS Guide for Building and Classing Subsea Pipeline Systems and/or the ABS Guide for Building
and Classing Subsea Riser Systems. When approved by the Committee, installations will be classed
and distinguished in the Record by the symbols À A1 Offshore Installation followed by the
appropriate notation as shown above.
REFERENCES
1/1.3.1 of: Rules for Building and Classing Offshore Installations
1-3/5.3 of: Guide for Building and Classing Facilities on Offshore Installations
1-3/1 of: Guide for Building and Classing Subsea Pipeline Systems
1-3/1 of: Guide for Building and Classing Subsea Riser Systems
REMARKS
Example – À A1. Offshore Installation… or
À A1. Offshore Installation – Hydrocarbon Processing…
Offshore Services
NOTATION
Pipe Laying Service
DESCRIPTION
This notation is to be assigned to a mobile offshore unit primarily intended for subsea pipeline
installation. It denotes pipe laying units designed and built in accordance with the ABS Guide for
Building and Classing Mobile Offshore Units.
REFERENCES
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Column-Stabilized Unit, Pipe Laying Service…
Offshore Services
NOTATION
Self-Elevating Drilling Unit
DESCRIPTION
This notation is assigned to units having a hull with sufficient buoyancy to transport the unit to the
desired location, to raise the hull to a pre-determined elevation above the sea surface with its legs
supported at the seabed. It denotes unit designed and built under ABS survey in accordance with the
ABS Rules for Building and Classing Mobile Offshore Drilling Units.
REFERENCES
3-1-1/3.1 of the Rules for Building and Classing Mobile Offshore Drilling Units
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Self-Elevating Drilling Unit…
Offshore Services
NOTATION
Self-Elevating Unit
DESCRIPTION
This notation is assigned to units capable of engaging in offshore operations other than drilling, production,
storage, or handling of hydrocarbons having a hull with sufficient buoyancy to transport the unit to the
desired location, to raise the hull to a pre-determined elevation above the sea surface with its legs
supported at the seabed. It denotes unit designed and built under ABS survey in accordance with the
ABS Guide for Building and Classing Mobile Offshore Units.
REFERENCES
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Self-Elevating Unit…
Offshore Services
NOTATION
Single Point Mooring
DESCRIPTION
The notation is assigned to a system which permits a vessel to weathervane while the vessel is moored
to a fixed or floating structure anchored to the sea bed by a rigid or an articulated structural system or
by catenary spread mooring.
REFERENCES
1/1.3.1 of the Rules for Building and Classing Single Point Moorings
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Single Point Mooring…
Offshore Services
NOTATION
À AMCC
À AMCCU
DESCRIPTION
AMCC – This notation is assigned to the automatic or remote control and monitoring systems for
non-propulsion related machinery and systems on offshore floating installations or fixed installations.
In particular, where in lieu of manning the machinery space(s) locally, it is intended to control and
monitor the machinery/systems under continuous supervision from a local centralized control and
monitoring station(s).
AMCCU – This notation is assigned to the automatic or remote control and monitoring systems for
non-propulsion related machinery and systems on offshore floating installations or fixed installations.
In particular, where it is intended that the machinery space(s) and the local centralized control and
monitoring station(s) (if provided) be periodically unmanned, and that the machinery/systems be
controlled and monitored from a remote control and monitoring center located outside the machinery
space(s).
The Maltese Cross À symbol signifies that the pertinent automatic or remote control and monitoring
systems have been assembled, tested and installed under ABS survey.
REFERENCES
1-1/3.1 and 1-1/3.3 of the Guide for Automatic or Remote Control Monitoring for Machinery and Systems (other than
propulsion) on Offshore Installations
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Floating Production, Storage & Offloading System (Ship-Type), À AMCC… or
À A1, Floating Production, Storage & Offloading System (Ship-Type), À AMCCU…
Offshore Services
NOTATION
À CDS
DESCRIPTION
This non-mandatory notation is assigned to indicate that drilling systems and equipment comply with
the ABS Guide for the Certification of Drilling Systems. The symbol À will be omitted if the drilling
systems and equipment, although complying with the Guide, have not been manufactured and installed
under ABS survey.
REFERENCES
1/5.1 of the Guide for the Certification of Drilling Systems
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Self Elevating Drilling Unit, À CDS… or
À A1, Self Elevating Drilling Unit, CDS…
Offshore Services
NOTATION
À CDS (N)
DESCRIPTION
This notation is assigned drilling systems and equipment that comply with the ABS Guide for the
Certification of Drilling Systems and the additional requirements for operation on the Norwegian
Continental Shelf contained in the ABS Guide for Mobile Offshore Units Operating on Norwegian
Continental Shelf, N-Notation.
REFERENCES
3-1/3 of the Guide for Mobile Offshore Units Operating on Norwegian Continental Shelf, N-Notation
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Self Elevating Drilling Unit, À CDS (N)…
Offshore Services
NOTATION
(CI)
DESCRIPTION
This notation is assigned to an existing vessel converted to an FPI, and classed under the provisions of
Section 5A-2-1 of the Guide for Building and Classing Floating Production Installations: If the existing
vessel being converted is currently in ABS class with À, then the À would be maintained for the
converted FPI.
REFERENCES
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Floating Production, Storage and Offloading System (Ship-Type) (CI), À
AMS…
Offshore Services
NOTATION
(Disconnectable)
(Disconnectable-R (from site to designated port))
DESCRIPTION
(Disconnectable) – This notation, together with À AMS (or AMS), is assigned to a floating
installation system that has a propulsion system and a means of disengaging the vessel from its
mooring and riser systems to allow the vessel to ride out severe weather or seek refuge under its own
power for a specified design environmental condition.
(Disconnectable-R (from site to designated port)) – This notation, together with À AMS (or
AMS), is assigned to a Disconnectable floating installation system that is restricted to a specific
service area in proximity to its operating site location. Reduced design load parameters may be
applied with an appropriate limited area of disconnected service notation Disconnectable-R (from
site to designated port), where permitted by local authorities or regulations.
REFERENCES
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Floating Production, Storage and Offloading System (Ship-Type)
(Disconnectable), À AMS…
Offshore Services
NOTATION
DLA
DLA (S design return period) site definition
DESCRIPTION
Dynamic Loading Approach (DLA) – This notation is assigned to installations where the hull
structure has been built to plans reviewed in accordance with the procedure and criteria in the ABS
Guidance Notes on “SafeHull-Dynamic Loading Approach” for Floating Production, Storage and
Offloading (FPSO) Systems for calculating and evaluating the behavior of hull structures under dynamic
loading conditions, in addition to compliance with other requirements of the Rules.
DLA (S design return period) site definition – The basic notation DLA is applied when the
hydrodynamic loads have been determined using the wave environment of the North Atlantic as if the
installation is a trading vessel with a 20- to 25-year service life. If the wave environment of the
intended site is used during the analysis, the notation will include an S qualifier, followed by the
design return period and the definition of the site. For example, if the 100-year return period was
used, the following may apply: DLA (S100) Brazil Marlim Field. Transit conditions to the
intended site are also to be included in the DLA evaluation.
REFERENCES
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Floating Production, Storage and Offloading System (Ship-Type), À AMS,
DLA…
DLA (S100) Brazil Marlim Field…
Offshore Services
NOTATION
ENVIRO-OS
ENVIRO-OS+
DESCRIPTION
ENVIRO-OS – This notation is assigned to an offshore unit, floating installation, or liftboat
complying with the applicable requirements of Annexes I, IV, V, and VI to the International
Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships, MARPOL 73/78, as amended and associated
ABS requirements which influence environmental protection.
ENVIRO-OS+ – This notation will be assigned to an offshore unit, floating installation, or liftboat
complying with applicable requirements of the ENVIRO-OS notation and Annexes I, IV, V, and VI
to the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships, MARPOL 73/78, as
amended and the criteria for environmental protection related to design characteristics, management
and support systems, sea discharges, and air discharges specified in the Guide for the Environmental
Protection Notation for Offshore Units, Floating Installations, and Liftboats.
REFERENCES
1/3.1 and 1/3.3 of the Guide for the Environmental Protection Notation for Offshore Units, Floating Installations, and
Liftboats
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Liftboat, Á, À AMS, À ACCU, ENVIRO-OS…
À A1, Column-Stabilized Drilling Unit, Á, À AMS, À ACCU, ENVIRO-OS+…
Offshore Services
NOTATION
FL(number of years) in (site of installation)
DESCRIPTION
Fatigue Life (FL(number of years)) – This is a notation that denotes an installation’s fatigue
criteria are meant to provide a minimum design fatigue life of 20 years for a new build, ship-shaped FPI
(i.e., FPSO, FPS or FSO) hull structure with the class notation FL(number of years). The (number
of years) refers to the fatigue life equal to 20 years or more (in 5-year increments), as specified by
the applicant. Where an installation’s design calls for a fatigue life in excess of the minimum design
fatigue life of 20 years, the excess design fatigue life is to be verified to be in compliance with the
criteria in Appendix 5A-3-A2 of the ABS Guide for Building and Classing Floating Production
Installations. Only one design fatigue life value is published for the entire structural system. Where
differing design fatigue life values are intended for different structural elements within the installation,
the (number of years) refers to the least of the varying target lives. The “design fatigue life” refers
to the target value set by the applicant, not the value calculated in the analysis.
The FL(number of years) notation will be followed by the specific site of the installation. The
fatigue life will be identified in the Record by the notation FL(number of years) in (site of
installation); for example, FL(30) in Brazil Santos Basin if the minimum design fatigue life
assessed is 30 years.
REFERENCES
1-1-2/5.10.1 of the Guide for Building and Classing Floating Production Installations
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Floating Production, Storage and Offloading System (Ship-Type), FL(30) in
Brazil Santos Basin, À AMS…
Offshore Services
NOTATION
HAB
HAB+
DESCRIPTION
HAB – This notation is assigned to an installation complying with the minimum criteria for crew
accommodations and the ambient environment (i.e., vibration, noise, indoor climate and lighting)
provided in the ABS Guide for Crew Habitability on Offshore Installations.
HAB+ – This notation is assigned to an installation complying with more stringent habitability
criteria with respect to whole-body vibration and indoor climate as provided in the ABS Guide for
Crew Habitability on Offshore Installations.
REFERENCES
1/6.1 and 1/6.2 of the Guide for Crew Habitability on Offshore Installations
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Column Stabilized Drilling Unit, Â, À AMS, HAB…
À A1, Column Stabilized Drilling Unit, Â, À AMS, HAB+…
Offshore Services
NOTATION
À IMP-EXP
À IMP
À EXP
DESCRIPTION
À IMP-EXP – This notation is assigned to an installation where the import and export systems are
built in full compliance with the requirements of Part 4, Chapter 2 of the ABS Guide for Building and
À IMP or À EXP – One of these notations is assigned to an installation when only the import system
or the export system, respectively, is built in full compliance with the requirements of Part 4 Chapter
2 of the ABS Guide for Building and Classing Floating Production Installations.
REFERENCES
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Floating Production, Storage and Offloading System (Column-Stabilized),
À AMS, À IMP-EXP…
Offshore Services
NOTATION
DESCRIPTION
Â – This symbol signifies that the anchor, chains or wire rope, which have been specified by the
Owner for position mooring, have been tested in accordance with the specifications of the Owner and
in the presence of a Surveyor. It is applicable to ship type displacement hull designed for offshore
operation as well as to multiple hull design. The symbol Â is placed after the classification notation
À A1.
Ã – This symbol signifies that that the anchor, chains or wire rope satisfy the ABS Rules for Building
and Classing Mobile Offshore Drilling Units for position mooring, as outlined in Appendix 3-5-A1. It
is applicable to ship type displacement hull designed for offshore operation as well as to multiple hull
design. The symbol Ã is placed after the classification notation À A1.
REFERENCES
3-4-1/5 and 3-4-1/7 of the Rules for Building and Classing Mobile Offshore Drilling Units
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Column Stabilized Drilling Unit, Â… and
À A1, Column Stabilized Drilling Unit, Ã…
Offshore Services
NOTATION
(N)
DESCRIPTION
This notation is assigned to a mobile offshore unit, operating on the Norwegian Continental Shelf
(NCS), that has been designed, constructed, installed and surveyed in compliance with the ABS Guide
for Mobile Offshore Units Operating on Norwegian Continental Shelf, N-Notation.
REFERENCES
1-1/3.1 of the Guide for Mobile Offshore Units Operating on Norwegian Continental Shelf, N-Notation
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Column-Stabilized Drilling Unit (N)…
Offshore Services
NOTATION
Restricted Service
DESCRIPTION
This notation is assigned to an offshore unit which is not designed to meet the full criteria for
unrestricted service.
REFERENCES
1-1-3/5 of the Rules for Conditions of Classification – Offshore Units and Structures (Part 1)
1-1-5/1 of the Rules for Building and Classing Mobile Offshore Drilling Units
1-1-2/5 of the Guide for Building and Classing Liftboats
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Column-Stabilized Drilling Unit, Restricted Service…
Offshore Services
NOTATION
RFL(number of years), Year in site of installation
DESCRIPTION
Remaining Fatigue Life (RFL) – This notation is assigned to an existing vessel that is converted to an
FPSO, FPS or FSO in the process referred to as an FPI vessel conversion, and the FPSO, FPS or FSO
is classed under the provisions of Section 5A-2-1 of the ABS Guide for Building and Classing
Floating Production Installations, the expected minimum remaining fatigue life of the structure is to
be assessed according to Section 5A-2-3 and documented by recording its value in the Record. The
RFL notation will be followed by the value of the expected minimum remaining fatigue life in years,
the year of maturation of fatigue life and the specific site of installation. For example, RFL(15),
2018 in Gulf of Mexico indicates that the expected minimum remaining fatigue life of the structure
is 15 years, which will be reached in the year 2018 for conditions anticipated in Gulf of Mexico. The
RFL(number of years), Year in (site of installation) notation as applied to an FPI vessel conversion
is mandatory.
REFERENCES
1-1-2/5.10.2 of the Guide for Building and Classing Floating Production Installations
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Floating Production, Storage and Offloading System (Ship-Type) (CI),
RFL(15), 2018 in Gulf of Mexico, À AMS…
Offshore Services
NOTATION
SFA(years)
DESCRIPTION
Spectral Fatigue Analysis (SFA) – This notation is assigned to vessels where Spectral Fatigue
Analysis is performed in accordance with criteria established in Part 5A, Chapter 1 of this Guide and
the ABS Guide for the Fatigue Assessment of Offshore Structures. If the design fatigue life is greater
than the minimum required 20 years, the notation SFA will be followed by the design fatigue life in
years (in 5-year increments), e.g., SFA (30).
REFERENCES
1-1-2/5.11 of the Guide for Building and Classing Floating and Production Installations
REMARKS
SFA(30)…
Offshore Services
NOTATION
F Floating
G Gravity Based
L Liquefaction Facility
O Transfer of LNG (Offloading/Loading)
P Gas Processing Facility
R Re-Gasification Facility
S Storage Facility
T Terminal without Processing Equipment
DESCRIPTION
These notations are assigned to offshore LNG terminal systems that have been built, installed, and
commissioned to the satisfaction of the ABS Surveyors to the full requirements of the Rules or to their
equivalent, where approved by the Committee for service for the specified design environmental
conditions. Accordingly, such systems will be classed and distinguished in the ABS Record by the
symbol À A1, followed by the appropriate notation, as listed above, for the intended service listed.
Class notations were chosen to provide a clear description of the function of each configuration using
the above symbols.
REFERENCES
1/5.1 of the Guide for Building and Classing Offshore LNG Terminals
REMARKS
Example – À A1, F(LNG) PLSO or À A1, G(LNG) PLSO – Floating or Gravity Based LNG
Terminals with Gas Processing and Production, Liquefaction, Storage and Offloading.
The terminal receives well gas, processes it, and liquefies the natural gas and condensate
for storage and offloading.
À A1, F(LNG) ORS or À A1, G(LNG) ORS – Floating or Gravity Based LNG Storage
Terminals with Re-Gasification Facility. The terminal receives LNG from a trading LNG
carrier, stores it, regasifies and discharges the gas ashore.
À A1, F(LNG) SO or À A1, G(LNG) SO – Floating or Gravity Based LNG Storage and
Offloading Terminals. The terminal receives, stores, and offloads LNG in a lightering
operation
Offshore Services
NOTATION
WT-READY
WT-TEMP
Well Test Service
DESCRIPTION
WT-READY – This notation is assigned to vessels or MODUs designed to be “well test ready” that
comply with Section 2 of the ABS Guide for Well Test Systems.
WT-TEMP – This notation is assigned to vessels or MODUs with temporary well test systems that
comply with the requirements of Section 3 of the ABS Guide for Well Test Systems. Vessels or MODUs
with temporary well test systems installed on board and not assigned with notation WT-TEMP are to
comply with the minimum mandatory requirements of Subsection 3/19 of the Guide. In this case, no
class notation related to well testing systems will be assigned to the vessel or MODU.
Well Test Service – This notation is assigned to Vessels or MODUs fitted with permanent well test
systems that comply with Section 4 of the ABS Guide for Well Test Systems. This notation is
mandatory.
REFERENCES
1/7 of the Guide for Well Test Systems
REMARKS
Example – À A1, Column-Stabilized Drilling Unit, WT-READY…
À A1, Self-Elevating Drilling Unit, WT-TEMP…
À A1, Drillship, À AMS, Well Test Service…

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ÅABS Notations and Symbols – 3 November 2003 (Updated on 11 March 2010)

Common Notations and Symbols

Notation Category Date Added

Notation Category Date Added

Notation Category Date Added

Common Notations and Symbols

Common Notations and Symbols

Common Notations and Symbols

Example – À A1, Oil Carrier, Á…

Common Notations and Symbols

Common Notations and Symbols

Common Notations and Symbols

Example – À A1, Oil Carrier, Á, À AMS…

Common Notations and Symbols

Example – A1, Oil Carrier, Á, AMS…

Common Notations and Symbols

Example – À A1, Oil Carrier, Á, À AMS, À ACC…

Common Notations and Symbols

Common Notations and Symbols

Example – À A1, Offshore Support Vessel, Á, À AMS, À ABCU…

Common Notations and Symbols

Common Notations and Symbols

Common Notations and Symbols

AT(hull girder component + additional thickness)

Common Notations and Symbols

Common Notations and Symbols

Common Notations and Symbols

Common Notations and Symbols

Example – À A1, Oil Carrier, Á, À AMS, À ACCU, À DPS-0…

Common Notations and Symbols

Example – À A1, Oil Carrier, Á, À AMS, À ACCU, À DPS-1…

Common Notations and Symbols

Example – À A1, Oil Carrier, Á, À AMS, À ACCU, À DPS-2…

Common Notations and Symbols

Example – À A1, Oil Carrier, Á, À AMS, À ACCU, À DPS-3…

Common Notations and Symbols

Common Notations and Symbols

Common Notations and Symbols

Common Notations and Symbols

Common Notations and Symbols

Common Notations and Symbols

Common Notations and Symbols

Common Notations and Symbols

Common Notations and Symbols

Common Notations and Symbols

Common Notations and Symbols

Ice Class A0, B0, C0, D0

Common Notations and Symbols

Ice Class A5, A4, A3, A2, A1

Common Notations and Symbols

Common Notations and Symbols

Ice Class I AA, I A, I B, I C

Common Notations and Symbols

Ice Class PC1, PC2, PC3, PC4, PC5, PC6, PC7

Common Notations and Symbols

Common Notations and Symbols

Common Notations and Symbols

Common Notations and Symbols

Common Notations and Symbols

Common Notations and Symbols