APPEA Guidelines for Lliting Equipment

Australian Petroleum Production & Exploration Association Limited

Level 3, 24 Marcus Clarke Street GPO Box 2201

CANBERRA ACT 2600 CANBERRA ACT 2601

Telephone: +61 2 6247 0960 Facsimile: +61 2 6247 0548

INTERNET: http://www.appea.com.au Email: [email protected]

ACN 000 292 713 ISBN 0 908277 21 0

GUIDELINES FOR

LIFTING EQUIPMENT

Issued: March 2000

Last amended: June 2001

APPEA Guidelines for Lifting Equipment

PREFACE

Lifting operations in the offshore petroleum industry represent potentially one of the highest riskactivities in the industry. Accordingly many standards and individual company guidelines exist toensure that lifting operations are performed safely using appropriate equipment.

As well as offshore lifting this guideline does cover some aspects of lifting operations at onshoresites. In particular personnel competency requirements, registers of lifting equipment andoperational aspects for lifting devices including mobile cranes are covered. During the preparationof the guideline the technical working group recognised that onshore lifting practices weregenerally well established and that a uniform standard already existed. This guideline is intendedonly to supplement and does not seek to alter these well established onshore lifting practices.

APPEA has issued these guidelines to facilitate consistent lifting practices across the petroleumindustry, particularly for offshore operations. These guidelines establish appropriate designrequirements for “Lifting Gear” reflecting the dynamic effects of lifting operations from supplyvessels along with guidance on equipment marking, registers, inspection testing and maintenance.They also describe the broad expectations for competencies of personnel associated with liftingactivities.

These guidelines generally reference Australian Standards, however the use of equivalentinternationally recognised standards is also acceptable.

Disclaimer

The use of these Guidelines does not in any way diminish the responsibility of individualoperating companies or, their contractors to carry out operations safely having due regard totheir duty of care responsibilities, and to observe statutory requirements. APPEA does not acceptany responsibility for any incident or consequence thereof, whether or not in violation of any lawor regulation, which arises or is alleged to have arisen from the use of these Guidelines.

Amendments

Date Amendment By Reason for AmendmentOct 2000 Additional Padeye Chart (App E) D. Williams Additional informationMay 2001 Rigging Equipment Example (App E) D. Williams Error in calculationJun 2001 Rigging Equipment Example (App E) L. Gray Error in calculation


CONTENTS

1 INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................................................ 1

1.1 PURPOSE ........................................................................................................................................................ 11.2 SCOPE ............................................................................................................................................................ 11.3 LIFTING EQUIPMENT TERMINOLOGY................................................................................................................ 21.4 RELATIONSHIP WITH REGULATIONS................................................................................................................. 31.5 MANAGEMENT SYSTEM .................................................................................................................................. 3

2 COMPETENCY STANDARDS....................................................................................................................... 4

2.1 MANAGEMENT RESPONSIBILITIES.................................................................................................................... 42.2 COMPETENCE OF EQUIPMENT OPERATORS ....................................................................................................... 42.3 MAINTAINERS OF LIFTING EQUIPMENT ............................................................................................................ 42.4 INSPECTORS OF LIFTING EQUIPMENT ............................................................................................................... 5

2.4.1 Pre-use visual checks............................................................................................................................ 52.4.2 Certified visual inspections ................................................................................................................... 5

2.5 NON DESTRUCTIVE TESTING (NDT) LABORATORIES........................................................................................ 52.5.1 Proof Load Testing Organisations......................................................................................................... 5

2.6 DESIGNERS & VERIFIERS OF RIGGING FOR ENGINEERED LIFTS, OF LIFTED EQUIPMENT, AND OF LIFTING

DEVICES.................................................................................................................................................................. 6

3 REGISTERS OF LIFTING EQUIPMENT ..................................................................................................... 7

3.1 INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................................................... 73.2 LIFTING EQUIPMENT REGISTER ....................................................................................................................... 73.3 LIFTING EQUIPMENT REGISTER CONTENTS ...................................................................................................... 7

4 DESIGN OF OFFSHORE LIFTING DEVICES ............................................................................................. 9

4.1 INTRODUCTION AND SCOPE ............................................................................................................................. 94.2 DESIGN, MANUFACTURE AND INSTALLATION (GENERAL) ................................................................................ 94.3 CRANES.......................................................................................................................................................... 94.4 MOBILE CRANES .......................................................................................................................................... 104.5 GANTRY CRANES, MONORAILS & DAVITS..................................................................................................... 104.6 LIFTING POINTS ............................................................................................................................................ 104.7 HOISTING EQUIPMENT (MANUALLY OPERATED) ............................................................................................ 114.8 MAN-RIDING EQUIPMENT ............................................................................................................................. 11

4.8.1 Cranes Used for Man Riding Operations............................................................................................. 114.8.2 Winches.............................................................................................................................................. 124.8.3 Man Riding Winches ........................................................................................................................... 12

4.9 SURVEYS AND INSPECTION............................................................................................................................ 124.10 DOCUMENTATION ......................................................................................................................................... 13

5 DESIGN OF OFFSHORE LIFTING GEAR................................................................................................. 14

5.1 INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................................................. 145.2 DESIGN APPROACH FOR ENGINEERED LIFTS................................................................................................... 145.3 OVER CHART LIFTS ...................................................................................................................................... 155.4 DESIGN OF RIGGING...................................................................................................................................... 155.5 ACCESS TO CRANE HOOK FOR MARINE CREWS – FIFTH LEG ASSEMBLIES....................................................... 185.6 DIAGONALLING ............................................................................................................................................ 185.7 SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS FOR OFFSHORE USE ............................................................................................... 19

5.7.1 Synthetic Slings (Refer AS 1353.17.2-1997, AS 4497.1&.2 -1997)........................................................ 195.7.2 Safety Shackles ................................................................................................................................... 195.7.3 Eyebolts.............................................................................................................................................. 195.7.4 Chain Slings ....................................................................................................................................... 195.7.5 Wire Rope Slings ................................................................................................................................ 19

5.8 DESIGN OF OFFSHORE CONTAINER PAD EYES & THEIR ATTACHMENT ............................................................ 20


5.9 DESIGN OF LIFTED EQUIPMENT (OFFSHORE CONTAINERS).............................................................................. 205.10 ISO CONTAINERS USED AS LIFTED EQUIPMENT.............................................................................................. 215.11 DESIGN OF SUB-SEA LIFTS ............................................................................................................................ 225.12 MATERIALS OF CONSTRUCTION AND FABRICATION REQUIREMENTS ............................................................... 225.13 DOCUMENTATION – NEW BUILD LIFTED EQUIPMENT ..................................................................................... 235.14 DOCUMENTATION FOR EXISTING LIFTED EQUIPMENT..................................................................................... 245.15 INITIAL LOAD TESTS FOR LIFTED EQUIPMENT ................................................................................................ 255.16 NON DESTRUCTIVE TESTING (OFFSHORE CONTAINERS INCLUDING ISO CONTAINERS) .................................... 25

6 DESIGN OF TANKS FOR FLUIDS.............................................................................................................. 26

7 MARKING OF LIFTING EQUIPMENT...................................................................................................... 27

7.1 GENERAL ..................................................................................................................................................... 277.2 MARKING OF LIFTING DEVICES ..................................................................................................................... 27

7.2.1 Fixed Location Pad Eyes..................................................................................................................... 277.3 MARKING OF LIFTED EQUIPMENT .................................................................................................................. 277.4 CONTAINER AND ROOF IDENTIFICATION MARKINGS ...................................................................................... 277.5 LIFTING FRAME AND BEAM MARKINGS ......................................................................................................... 287.6 MARKING OF RIGGING .................................................................................................................................. 28

8 PERIODIC INSPECTION, TESTING AND MAINTENANCE ................................................................... 29

8.1 GENERAL ..................................................................................................................................................... 298.2 LIFTING DEVICES.......................................................................................................................................... 30

8.2.1 Inspection Before and After Proof Loading.......................................................................................... 308.3 LIFTED EQUIPMENT ...................................................................................................................................... 308.4 RIGGING....................................................................................................................................................... 31

8.4.1 Proof Loading of Rigging used for Offshore Lifting (Boat Lifts) (ON HOLD) ....................................... 318.5 REPAIRS AND MODIFICATIONS TO LIFTING EQUIPMENT .................................................................................. 32

9 SAFE OPERATING PROCEDURES............................................................................................................ 33

9.1 LIFTING OPERATIONS BETWEEN PLATFORMS AND VESSELS ............................................................................ 339.1.1 Planning............................................................................................................................................. 339.1.2 Communications ................................................................................................................................. 339.1.3 Lift Preparation and Handling ............................................................................................................ 33

9.2 PERSONNEL TRANSFERS................................................................................................................................ 349.2.1 Authority ............................................................................................................................................ 349.2.2 Duties................................................................................................................................................. 349.2.3 Suitability of the vessel........................................................................................................................ 359.2.4 Weather conditions ............................................................................................................................. 369.2.5 Communications ................................................................................................................................. 369.2.6 Safety equipment and rescue procedures ............................................................................................. 369.2.7 Training ............................................................................................................................................. 36

APPENDIX A .............................................................................................. ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED.

REFERENCE DOCUMENTS............................................................................ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED.

APPENDIX B .............................................................................................. ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED.

DEFINITIONS ..................................................................................................ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED.

APPENDIX C .............................................................................................. ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED.

OFFSHORE WIRE ROPE AND CHAIN SLINGS .............................................ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED.

APPENDIX D .............................................................................................. ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED.

DYNAMIC AMPLIFICATION FACTOR..........................................................ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED.

APPENDIX E............................................................................................... ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED.

PAD EYE DETAILS ............................................................................................ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED.


APPENDIX F............................................................................................... ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED.

INSPECTION & TESTING REQUIREMENTS .................................................ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED.

APPENDIX G .............................................................................................. ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED.

GUIDE TO AUSTRALIAN AND INTERNATIONAL STANDARDS...............ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED.

APPENDIX H .............................................................................................. ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED.

GUIDELINES FOR THE PHASE OUT OF ISO SHIPPING CONTAINERS OFFSHOREERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED

APPENDIX I................................................................................................ ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED.

GUIDELINES FOR THE INSPECTION, TESTING AND MARKING OF OFFSHORE CONTAINERSERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED


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1 INTRODUCTION

1.1 Purpose

To provide operators, contractors and vendors working in the offshore petroleum industry clear andconsistent guidance on the expected standards for design, manufacture, supply and use of liftingequipment. These guidelines are intended to ensure safe lifting operations, thereby minimising risksto personnel and assets.

1.2 Scope

These guidelines apply to “Lifting Equipment” used on and in the following offshore explorationand production facilities and onshore loading facilities:

• platforms;

• floating production units;

• floating production, storage and offloading (FPSO) facilities;

• mobile offshore drilling units (MODUs);

• supply vessels;

• construction vessels;

• diving support vessels;

• seismic vessels;

• buoys; and

• onshore loading facilities and supply bases.

These guidelines do not apply to specialised lifting devices used in the following activities:

• pipe laying activities;

• specialised wireline operations (ie. winches, wireline units, etc);

• specialised drilling rig equipment (ie. draw-works assembly, travelling blocks, drillingswivels, etc);

• heavy lift activities from construction barges;

• helicopter external lifting.

• escape craft

Most of the “Lifting Devices” used in drilling related operations are addressed in relevant APIstandards or IADC guidelines.


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1.3 Lifting Equipment Terminology

LIFTING DEVICES

LIFTING EQUIPMENT

LIFTING GEAR

RIGGING

Wire ropes

Wire rope slings

Chain Slings

Flat synthetic webbing slings

Wire coil flat slings

Polyester round slings

Shackles

Hooks

Clamps

Rings

Swivels

Hammer locks

Sockets

Blocks

Stingers

LIFTED

EQUIPMENT

Cranes

(Mobile crane, Tower crane,

Overhead crane, Hoist)

Chain Hoist

Cherry Picker

Davit

Forklift

In-situ lifting beam

Jack

Lever Hoist

Loading arm

Monorail.

Pad eyes

Trolley

Winch

Bulk liquid tanks

Open freight containers

Closed freight containers

Workshops

Laboratories

Storage containers

Mini containers

Pallets

Open top bins

Skips

Baskets

Personnel Baskets

Gas cylinder racks

Spreader frames

Equipment skids

Long stock container

Modules

Padeyes Section

Lifting points & supporting members ofsubsea manifolds, Christmas trees &

subsea valves

Lifting points and supporting membersof machinery

(skids, valves etc)


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1.4 Relationship with Regulations

The majority of Australian legislation covering safety critical equipment such as “LiftingEquipment” is now objective based. This includes the Petroleum (Submerged Lands) (Managementof Safety on Offshore Facilities) Regulations 1996 and regulations issued under the various Stateand Federal Safety and Occupational Health legislation. As such, these guidelines are structured insuch a way as to provide guidance to the offshore petroleum industry on “good industry practice”.These guidelines are not to be interpreted as industry “best practice” or minimum standards. Theonus of demonstrating that risks have been reduced to as low as reasonably practicable remains withthe individual operator or contractor.

Offshore petroleum exploration and development in Australia comes under the jurisdiction of theCommonwealth and State or Territory Petroleum (Submerged Lands) Acts. Depending on the leaselocation, regulations under the Act may be directly administered by the State or Territory oradministered by the State or Territory on behalf of the Commonwealth (as a Designated Authority).

For offshore operations supply vessels, work boats, offtake tankers, etc, come under the NavigationAct 1912 and Marine Orders parts 43, 44 (section 11 only), and 59. Marine Orders part 32 is notapplicable to offshore lifting. Similarly when MODUs, FPSOs, FPUs, construction barges enterAustralian waters they fall under the Navigation Act. When they are moored at drill site they fallunder the P(SL)A in addition to the Navigation Act, but immediately on leaving the mooring theyrevert back to the Navigation Act. Loading and unloading operations at offshore facilities aregoverned by the P(SL)A which is administered by the relevant state or territory department.Operators attention is also drawn to the AMSA publication “Australian Offshore Vessels – Code ofSafe Working Practice”.

To demonstrate compliance with the Petroleum (Submerged Lands) (Management of Safety onOffshore Facilities) Regulations 1996, operators must ensure they have an effective integratedSafety Management System (SMS). Safety Management System requirements as defined under theSafety Case regime in place should identify, assess, eliminate and/or manage risk to as low asreasonably practicable.

1.5 Management System

Organisations using these guidelines should have in place a formal “Lifting EquipmentManagement System”.

This management system would as a minimum demonstrate how the organisation manages:

• responsibilities for key personnel;

• registration and trace-ability of “Lifting Equipment” within its control or use;

• design, fabrication and supply of “Lifting Equipment”;

• inspection and maintenance of “Lifting Equipment” under its control;

• safe use of “Lifting Equipment”;

• training and competencies of personnel;

• contractor or third party owned “Lifting Equipment”; and

• auditing of this management system.


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2 COMPETENCY STANDARDS

2.1 Management Responsibilities

Management should ensure that personnel operating “Lifting Equipment” have the requiredcompetencies and are familiar with specific “Lifting Equipment” and work practices used at eachfacility. This may include the following:

• awareness of relevant codes, standards and guidelines;

• awareness of relevant competency standards;

• knowledge of “Lifting Equipment” used on the facility;

• lift planning procedures;

• requirements for pre-use equipment checks;

• requirements for moving loads around the facility;

• routine inspection and maintenance requirements;

• procedures for loading and unloading supply vessels; and

• procedures for personnel transfer operations.

2.2 Competence of Equipment Operators

Equipment operators, including but not limited to crane and fork lift operators, riggers and doggersworking within Australia and/or Australian waters are required to hold a certificate of competencyissued by either a recognised State Authority or a National Licence issued under the “NationalOccupational Health and Safety Certification Standard for Users and Operators of IndustrialEquipment” (Note: The referenced publication, NOHSC:1006-1992, is available from the NationalOccupational Health and Safety Commission).

Such personnel shall be familiar and competent with facility specific “Lifting Equipment” and workpractices.

2.3 Maintainers of Lifting Equipment

Management should ensure that maintenance of “Lifting Equipment” is carried out by suitablyqualified and competent personnel, who have knowledge of the following areas:

• awareness of the relevant standards and regulations;

• site specific requirements and procedures;

• maintenance requirements on all types of “Lifting Equipment” to be maintained;

• inspection frequency requirements;

• detailed inspections requirements for all “Lifting Equipment”;


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• discard criteria; and

• disposal processes for failed equipment.

2.4 Inspectors of Lifting Equipment

2.4.1 Pre-use visual checks

Competent persons, holding a certificate of competency relevant to the type of equipment, are tocarry out a pre-use visual check each time the equipment is used.

2.4.2 Certified visual inspections

A "certified visual inspection" is more detailed inspection than a visual check and is carried out on aperiodic frequency, the results of which are documented and recorded in the facility "LiftingEquipment" Register. Certified visual inspection shall be conducted by one of the following:

• Classification Societies with industry accepted inspection standards for "Lifting Equipment"(eg. DNV, Lloyds etc.); or

• A "body" holding NATA Inspection accreditation to ISO 17020 for in-service inspection of"Lifting Equipment" to these guidelines. Note: Personnel certification for inspection of liftingequipment may be developed in the future by AIDNT, AICIP or similar organisations; or

• Suitably qualified people working within an Operator's inspection program where the Operatorworks within a Safety Case regime which addresses the requirements for training of suchpersonnel and the standards for such "certified visual inspections".

Refer to Section 8 and Appendix I for further details of the "certified visual inspection".

All "certified visual inspection" reports should bear the endorsement stamp of the accreditationbody (NATA), the Classification Society, or be issued in the form required by the Operator for in-house "certified visual inspection".

2.5 Non Destructive Testing (NDT) Laboratories

During initial fabrication, repairs and modifications as well as part of the periodic inspectionprocess, NDT inspection of “Lifting Equipment” shall be conducted by:

• A “body” holding NATA laboratory accreditation to ISO 17025 for Non DestructiveTesting.

All NDT reports should bear the endorsement stamp of the appropriate NDT accreditation body(NATA).

2.5.1 Proof Load Testing Organisations

Proof load testing organisations shall hold accreditation to these guidelines for the relevant class ofproof load testing. Proof load testing of “Lifting Equipment” shall be conducted by one of thefollowing bodies:


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• Classification Societies with industry accepted proof load standards for “LiftingEquipment” (eg. DNV, Lloyds etc.);

OR

• A “body” holding NATA laboratory accreditation to ISO 17025 for proof load testing of“Lifting Equipment” to these guidelines.

OR

• Suitably qualified people working within an Operator's inspection program where theOperator works within a Safety Case regime which addresses the requirements for trainingof such personnel and the standards for such proof load testing.

All proof load testing reports should bear the endorsement stamp of the appropriate proof loadtesting accreditation body (NATA) or Classification Society.

Accreditation should be reviewed to ensure that it covers the equipment to be tested.

2.6 Designers & Verifiers of Rigging for Engineered Lifts, of Lifted Equipment, and ofLifting Devices

Designers & Verifiers of Rigging for Engineered Lifts, of Lifted Equipment, and of Lifting Devicesshould be qualified engineers experienced in offshore lifting technology.

The design & verification of "Lifted Equipment” and Engineered Lifts should be conducted byeither:

• A "body" holding ISO 9001 certification for design and who have qualified structural engineersexperienced in offshore lifting to carry out the design and also the checking of "LiftedEquipment". A written certificate shall be provided on the design documentation by the "designbody" that it holds ISO 9001 qualification for structural design and that the design conforms to astandard recognised under these Guidelines.

OR

• Where the "design body" does not hold ISO 9001 certification for design, then the design is tobe certified by a classification society, ie Lloyds, DNV etc. In this case all designdocumentation should bear the endorsement stamp of the appropriate Classification Society.

(This section applies also to subsequent Sections 4.2, 5.1, 5.3, 5.8, 5.9, and 5.14 of theseGuidelines.)"

APPEA Guidelines for Lifting Equipment - Inspection, Testing and Marking of Offshore Containers

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3 REGISTERS OF LIFTING EQUIPMENT

3.1 Introduction

Each facility or group of facilities shall maintain a register or registers of all types of “LiftingEquipment” used on site and owned by the operator. Likewise, contractors should maintain aregister of their “Lifting Equipment” on each facility. This is a statutory requirement for vesselsoperating under the Navigation Act 1912.

All suppliers of “Lifting Equipment” that is leased to offshore operators and/or contractors shouldalso maintain a register of all such equipment.

3.2 Lifting Equipment Register

A register, as a minimum, shall contain an inventory of all “Lifting Equipment” present on or at thefacility (this is equipment that effectively “belongs” to the facility).

The register of “Lifting Equipment” may be in an electronic format or in the form of a card or otherpaper register system. Register systems should identify the location of all hard copy records ofdesign verifications, inspection certificates, maintenance records, test certificates, etc.

Because of varied recording requirements the register should be split into equipment types orClasses, eg. “Lifting Devices” (cranes, pad eyes, etc), “Lifted Equipment” (containers, baskets, etc)and Rigging (slings, shackles, etc).

3.3 Lifting Equipment Register Contents

The register is expected to contain the following entries as applicable for each item of equipment:

• a full description of the equipment;

• the safe working load (SWL) of the item or maximum gross mass (MGM) as applicable;

• the unique identification or tag number for the item;

• manufacturer’s serial numbers;

• batch number of the item if applicable;

• the location (or reference to the drawing showing the location - particularly for pad eyes)of the item. The usage of the item (eg. stores unloading, engine room general lifting etc);

• date of entry onto the register;

• whether a Certificate of Conformity is required for the item;

• a copy of the Certificate of Conformity, or number of, approval bodies and date of issue;

• the location of the design verification certificate and documentation;

• whether a certificate of inspection is required;


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• the inspection certificate number, issuing body and date of issue;

• for cranes, winches, containers, special “Lifting Equipment”, pad eyes etc, the design andfabrication codes and the location of the manufacturer data report;

• for “Lifting Gear”, the national standard to which the item was purchased;

• re-inspection interval; and

• reference to the approved maintenance and operating manual for the item.

These entries shall be supported (as applicable) with the following traceable hard copy records asissued by an inspection body holding accreditation with NATA in accordance with these guidelinesor a Classification Society with industry accepted design and inspection standards for “LiftingEquipment”:

• certificate of design verification;

• current certificate of inspection;

• type test certificate;

• manufacturers test certificate/s (for “Lifted Equipment”);

• the maintenance and inspection records (including the past inspection reports for visualinspections, calibrations, adjustments, change out of equipment etc); and

• proof load test and NDT reports.

Where applicable, these entries shall be supported with traceable hard copy records of thefollowing:

• original manufacturer’s data report; and

• original design calculations.


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4 DESIGN OF OFFSHORE LIFTING DEVICES

4.1 Introduction and Scope

This section provides guidance on “Lifting Devices”, as defined in Section 1.3, and their associatedequipment installed or erected on offshore facilities.

4.2 Design, Manufacture and Installation (General)

“Lifting Devices” should be suitable for their intended purpose and should be of sound design,construction, suitable material, of adequate strength and free from defects.

Equipment should be designed with due regard to the intended use with or near other equipment andfor safe use under known operating conditions, including any overload conditions which may beanticipated, (ie. proof load testing, etc.). Where relevant, the equipment should have efficientcontrol systems, guards, fences and shields. Particular consideration should be given to theeffectiveness of mountings on all “Lifting Devices”.

The design of “Lifting Devices” should be consistent in its approach with that used to design the“Lifted Equipment” and Rigging, (ie. a device designed to API codes, with rigging to DNV codesand equipment to AS codes, may provide an inconsistent application of factors of safety and failureload paths through the lift).

The lifting device designer as specified in section 2.6, should be consulted when any of thefollowing actions are being considered:

• initial design;

• modifications to any “Lifting Devices”;

• repairs to safety-critical elements of “Lifting Devices”; and

• testing or overload testing of “Lifting Devices” after repair or modification.

4.3 Cranes

The detailed design of offshore cranes is beyond the scope of this document and is normallycompleted by the specialist crane supplier. Common acceptable standards specified for offshorecranes are:

• API Spec 2C Specification for Offshore Cranes;

• Lloyds Code for Lifting Appliances in a Marine Environment, together with BS2573Rules for the Design of Cranes; and

• AS1418 Crane Code.


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4.4 Mobile Cranes

Mobile cranes offshore should be classed as temporary mobile equipment and should only be usedfor the purpose agreed by the operating company, the owner and a competent person.

Where mobile cranes are used for operations subject to sea-state induced dynamics, they shouldgenerally comply with Section 4.3. The following items should also be considered:

• permissible locations (ie. area of safe operation) including adequacy of supportingstructure;

• barriers to prevent the crane colliding with other parts of the installation, or topplingoverboard;

• safe limits of operation on floating installations and any associated means of stowing orsecuring the crane in adverse weather conditions;

• means of securing while lifting from supply vessels or any other sea-state operation;

• dynamic effects and de-rating for sea state operations;

• stability of the vessel on which the crane is being operated;

• inspection of safety-critical structural and mechanical components; and

• details should be included in an appropriate manual addressing the use of the mobile cranein offshore operations.

4.5 Gantry Cranes, Monorails & Davits

Gantry cranes, monorails, davits (other than escape craft davits) etc. should be designed,constructed and tested in accordance with a recognised standard, supplemented with any specificconditions of use (such as operational sea-state and/or maximum list/trim and roll/pitch). Any suchconditions of use should be made clearly visible to the operator of the crane and also be stated in anappropriate manual for the equipment.

Gantry cranes should be fitted with end limit switches and mechanical stops for all travel motions.If travel speeds are sufficiently low to warrant over-travel being arrested by mechanical end stopsonly, then approval for this mode of operation should be obtained from a competent person.

4.6 Lifting Points

Permanently attached lifting points should be designed to AS4100 or equivalent and be subject toinspection, NDT and load testing in accordance with these guidelines.

The design of lifting points such as pad eyes, pad-ears, lifting lugs, etc. should incorporate themagnitude, direction and effects of load distribution.

The design of the surrounding structure to which lifting points are affixed should allowtransmission of the load from the lifting point to the surrounding structure.

Adequate clearances should be provided between the pad eye and the rigging. Lifting points shouldbe free from any detrimental defects caused by oxy-cutting, arc welding, etc.


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Testing of pad eyes, lifting lugs etc. should be agreed with a competent person and carried out tocomply with the current requirements.

Refer to Section 5.8 and Appendix E for pad eye detail.

4.7 Hoisting Equipment (Manually Operated)

Manually operated hoisting equipment should be designed, manufactured, tested and marked inaccordance with recognised codes and standards (Appendix G).

Pawls for the ratchet mechanism should either be spring-loaded or engagement with the ratchetensured by other positive means. Engagement should not depend solely on gravity alone.

Hand chains should be smooth and free from rough areas. The effort required to operate manualhoisting equipment should not exceed that which one person can comfortably exert from a standingposition.

4.8 Man-Riding Equipment

4.8.1 Cranes Used for Man Riding Operations

The following guidance applies to cranes used for personnel lifting. Outline guidance on proceduresfor transfer of personnel by basket is provided in Section 9.2.

• Free fall operations of the hoist or boom motion are not permitted.

• Winding gear should be equipped with a brake, mechanically operable under all loadconditions.

• The design braking force should be at least 120% of the braking force required to supportthe stipulated test overload.

• Dynamic braking effects due to hydraulic transmission systems should not be considered asa mechanical brake when using cranes for man-riding operations.

• The brake should be automatically applied when the drive is in the "off" or the "neutral"position.

• Any change-speed gearbox should be of constant mesh type whereby it should not bepossible to change the gear ratio while there is any load on the winch.

• Clutches or other means of disengaging the drive train are prohibited for this type ofoperation.

• Brake action should be progressive in order to avoid sudden dynamic shock.

• The brake should be applied automatically upon failure of the power supply to the motorand/or control device.

• Upper & Lower limits shall be fitted to the hoist motion

• An emergency stop or secondary brake should be fitted and be operable by the driver in anemergency situation involving man-riding operations to arrest all crane motions. Asecondary brake should be applied directly at the drum and not through gear boxes, geartrains etc. The brake need only be of a size sufficient for arresting the loading of persons andthe basket, together with some dynamic allowance. In the event of failure of the primemover to re-start, it should be possible to recover the load by manual means.

• Cranes which are suitable for man-riding duties should be clearly marked "SUITABLE FORMAN-RIDING DUTIES" at the crane operator's control location.


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4.8.2 Winches

All winches should be designed:

• with winch controls that automatically return to neutral on release in any operatingposition; and

• with automatic brakes which will apply whenever the operating lever is returned to neutralor on loss of power; and

• without a clutch or other device capable of disengaging the drive.

4.8.3 Man Riding Winches

Winches to be used for man-riding duties should additionally be designed:

• with a secondary brake to prevent the load from falling in the event of failure of theautomatic brake;

• with devices to prevent the winch rope from over- winding or under-winding;

• with provision for spooling the wire on the drum to prevent damage or entanglement, thismay include the provision of sufficient fleet angle to ensure the wire spools correctly;

• to be capable of lowering the load in the event of an emergency, such as loss of power;

• with a brake holding which is less than the minimum breaking load of the rope and morethan the maximum line pull of the winch in the man-riding mode of operation; if a highload is applied to the winch, the brake must render before the breaking load of the rope isreached; and

• with a suitable guard over the drum to provide protection to the operator in the event ofrope breakage. Such a guard should not inhibit the ability of the operator to see thespooling action of the rope on the drum.

All man-riding winches shall be clearly labelled "SUITABLE FOR MAN -RIDING".

4.9 Surveys and Inspection

In determining the scope and extent of surveys, due account should be taken of applicablelegislative requirements and the various recommendations on examinations or tests given in thissection, together with the results of any such examinations or tests previously carried out.

For cranes, at least one full load test should be witnessed by a competent person.

Where examinations or tests are proposed for the purpose (or consideration) of crane certification,the competent person should be consulted in advance with a view to agreeing the basis for theiracceptance. Agreement that the results of the examinations or tests are recorded and reported in amanner that meets this purpose should also be sought from the competent person.

Surveys may need to be brought forward if the competent person is of the opinion that a crane hasexperienced excessive loading or overloading.


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4.10 Documentation

An appropriate operations manual should contain particulars of the relevant “Lifting Devices”. As aminimum, the contents should include general arrangements for the machinery and equipment,wiring and piping diagrams where appropriate, and instructions for the operation of the devices. Themanual should contain operating limits, checks and test procedures, which are required to be carriedout to ensure safe operation of the equipment.

Any special instruction for safe operation of appliances, such as those for man-riding winches insection 4.8, should be noted.

All “Lifting Devices” should have an appropriate maintenance manual which gives details ofservicing, repair, essential spares holdings and any special tools required for maintenance purposes.

All “Lifting Devices” should be provided with a test certificate containing the followinginformation:

• type description;

• model description;

• serial number;

• description;

• classification of mechanism (where powered);

• rated capacity of hoisting or hauling;

• test load applied;

• name and address of manufacturer;

• name and status of signatory; and

• date of equipment test & date of issue of certificate.


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5 DESIGN OF OFFSHORE LIFTING GEAR

5.1 Introduction

This section of the guidelines covers the general requirements for the design of “Lifting Gear” asdistinct from “Lifting Devices” such as cranes, winches, etc. Guidelines for the design of “LiftingDevices” for offshore use are presented in Section 4.

Rigging can be selected by equipment users from manufacturers handbooks provided the factors ofsafety given in section 5.4 below are met and the load does not exceed approximately 25 tonnes (thearbitrarily selected limit for Engineering Lifts). It is anticipated that in due course rigging supplierswill have catalogues available of “Lifting Gear” suitable for offshore lifting.

Where offshore loads exceed 25 tonnes an engineered lift should be considered [refer to AS 1666.2(1995), section 9c]. In these cases design of all “Lifting Gear” should be performed by qualifiedengineers experienced in offshore lifting.

With respect to the design of “Lifted Equipment” regardless of the lifted load, it is expected that thedesign will be performed by “qualified engineers experienced in offshore lifting”. Refer to clause2.6 for competency requirements.

5.2 Design Approach for Engineered Lifts

For the design of “Lifting Gear” to be used for an engineered lift the design engineer’s tasks shouldinclude but not be limited to:

• ensuring that design criteria are acceptable to the user of the “Lifting Equipment”; and

• addressing all relevant design conditions including transport, installation, loading &unloading, operation, temperature and fatigue considerations.

The design should consider but not be limited to:

• weight uncertainty;• weight growth potential;• uncertainty in Centre of Gravity;• dynamic amplification factor (DAF) ;• diagonalling effects;• local eccentricities arising from pad eye connection details;• drag loads on equipment to be lifted in water;• reviewing the load Radius Chart for the “Lifting Device” (Crane) taking into account the

weight of crane rope over the head sheave, the weight of the hook and hook block, and theweight of the rigging as part of the load weight;

• maximum hoist speed;• Wave height and period.• Wind speed

For engineered lifts where the rigging for a particular load has been specifically designed therigging requirements shall be noted in a work order or preferably attached to the load (eg, a platewhich reads "For Rigging requirement refer to Drg. No. ... ").


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5.3 Over Chart Lifts

An "over chart" lift (ie. a lift that exceed the load radius curves for the crane in question) is anengineered lift and an analysis shall be carried out in close liaison with the “Lifting Equipment”manufacturer, the installation contractor and the Operator. The Dynamic Amplification Factor(DAF) may be reduced by limiting the sea state in which the lift can be carried out. In the case ofdeck or onshore lifts the hoisting speed can be controlled to limit the dynamic effects.

These limitations shall be clearly shown on the design drawings, which are to be duly signed"Accepted for Lift" by the engineer accepting overall responsibility.

For offshore lifts, codes such as "DNV Marine Operations Part 2 Chapter 5" and "Lloyd’s Code forLifting Appliances in a Marine Environment" provide guidance.

5.4 Design of Rigging

These guidelines vary the required factors of safety for rigging depending on whether the rigging isto be used offshore or onshore. The dynamic factors of safety are based on findings of the fieldstudy “Investigation of Dynamic Amplification Effects During Offshore Lifting” Reference 65.Non-dynamic factors of safety are addressed in a discussion paper on “Factors of Safety for LiftingSlings used in Offshore Supply Boat Operations” Reference 64.

The following equation is based on a similar equation provided in AS 1666.2 (1995) section 9 andincludes a material factor (Rm) such that it can be used universally for both chain and wire ropeslings.

The SWL of an offshore sling assembly shall be calculated from the equation:

SWL = (Rc Rm Rt Ro) x P Equation 1. 4 x 9.81

WhereSWL = Safe Working Load of an offshore sling assembly (in tonnes)P = Minimum Breaking Force (kN) for the individual rope,

chain or webbing which comprises the assembly

Rc = Factor for Sling Assembly Configuration (refer Table 1 AS1666.2 (1995))

Rm = Material Factor (refer Table 5.4.1 )

Rt = Termination Factor (refer Table 5.4.2 )

Ro = Operational Factor (refer Table 5.4.3 )

Table 5.4.1 Material Factor (Rm)

Sling Type Rm

Chain and Lifting Components (Ref AS3775) 1.0

Wire Rope 1.0

Flat Synthetic Webbing Slings 0.57

Round Synthetic Slings 0.57

Shackles (Grades S&T Only) 0.80


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Table 5.4.2 Termination Factor (Rt)

Sling Type Rt

Chain and Lifting Components (Ref AS3776) 1.0

Wire Rope 1.0 - 0.8

(refer Table 2 AS 1666.2 1995)

Flat Webbing 0.875

Round Slings 1.0

Shackles 1.0

Table 5.4.3 Operational Factor (Ro)Type of Operation (Ro)

Onshore, Inshore or Platform Lift 1.0

Offshore Lift (Hs max 3.0m)

Lift Weight ≤ 6 tonnes

6 tonnes < Lift Weight ≤ 10 tonnes

10 tonnes < Lift Weight ≤ 25 tonnes

0.69

0.69-0.81

0.81-0.92

Personnel Lift 0.40

Note: 1. For Lift Weight > 6 tonnes, Ro may be obtained by linear interpolation between the parameters specified.2. Where the lift weight is not measured, the uncertainty of the lift weight shall be

considered.3. Where the Factor of Safety for wire ropes, predicted herein, is less than the

Factor of Safety as specified in AS1666(1995) the greater value shall be applied. 4. Hs ; Significant wave Height

The Safe Working Load (SWL) can also be expressed in terms of a Factor of Safety (FOS):

SWL = Rc P FOS x 9.81

WhereFOS = 4/(Rm Rt Ro) Equation. 2

Where the Factor of Safety as specified in Equation 2 is less than the Factor of Safety as specifiedin AS1666(1995) for wire rope, the greater value shall be applied. Equation 2 is consistent with theexplicit application of termination efficiency where AS1666(1976) is based on the poorestperforming termination. Although equation 2 would allow a minimum Factor of Safety for aconventional ferrule secured wire rope sling of 4.21 this guideline is adopting a minimum Factor ofSafety of 5.26 (or 5/Rt where Rt = 0.95 for ferrule secured wire rope) as recommended inAS1666(1995). It should be noted that for a similar sling the Factor of Safety as specified inAS1666(1976) would be 5 which includes consideration of the termination efficiency. For furtherdiscussion on the inconsistency of the application of termination efficiency between AS1666(1976)and AS1666(1995) refer to Reference 64. The Factor of Safety for chains and wire rope areprovided as a function of SWL in Figure 1 and Figure 2 respectively.

Table 5.4.4 lists recommended Factors of Safety for commonly used slings in offshore and onshoreoperations for direct loaded lifting arrangements. Values for other types of operations may bedetermined by substituting the appropriate values of Rm, Rt and Ro in Equation 2.


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Table 5.4.4 Recommended Factors of Safety for Commonly Used Slings

Type ofOperation Ro

Chain SlingRt= 1.0

Rm = 1.0

Wire RopeRt=0.95,Rm =1.00

Flat WebbingRt=.875Rm=.57

Round WebbingRt=1.0Rm=.57

Onshore orPlatform lift

1.00 45.26

(Theoreticalvalue = 4.21)

8 7

Offshore Boat Lift(Hs=3.0m Max)

Lift Weight <= 6

Lift Weight= 10

Lift Weight =25

0.69

0.81

0.92

5.8

5.0

4.4

6.1

5.26*

5.26*

11.6

9.9

8.7

10.2

8.7

7.7

Note: 1. Lift weight in tonnes2. Where the lift weight is not measured, the uncertainty of the lift weight shall be considered.3. Where the Factor of Safety for wire ropes, predicted herein, is less than the Factor of Safety as

specified in AS1666(1995) the greater value shall be applied. *

Figure 1. Effective FOS for Chain Sling for “Offshore Boat Lifts”

Effective FoS - Chain (Hs < 3.0m, Rt = 1, Rm = 1)

0

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

0 5 10 15 20 25

Safe Working Load (tonnes)

Fac

tor

of

Saf

ety

APPEA (OFFSHORE)

AS3775 - 1990 (ONSHORE)

6

4.4

5.8


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Figure 2. Effective FOS for Wire Rope Sling for “Offshore Boat Lifts”(Ferrule Secured Terminations)

5.5 Access to Crane Hook for Marine Crews – Fifth Leg Assemblies

Rigging assemblies should be of sufficient length to allow a rigger at ground or deck level toconnect the rigging assembly to the crane hook from the outside of the “Lifted Equipment”. Duringlifting, the recommended included angle between the sling and the horizontal at pad eye level is 60degrees.

Rigging assemblies with an included (apex) angle greater than 90 degrees must be approved by theoperator prior to use.

In some instances, consideration should be given to attaching a fifth leg to the top of the assemblyto ensure the top end of the rigging assembly can reach to within one metre of the deck.

Whilst the inclusion of a 5th leg will greatly assist supply vessel deck crews, it does delete theinherent redundancy in a 4 leg assembly. For this reason a 4 leg assembly is preferred.

Prior to the issue of these Guidelines the WADME stipulated a FOS of 6.5 for single legassemblies. Any requirement for the continued use of this FOS should be checked with WADME.

5.6 Diagonalling

For loads up to approximately 25 tonnes using 2, 3 and 4 point lifts, the total load should be takenby 2 slings as required by AS1666(1995).

Diagonalling effects should be considered for both “Lifted Equipment” (including pad eyes) and therigging. (Not applicable to engineered lifts)

Effective FoS - Wire Rope(Hs < 3.0m, Rt = 0.95, Rm =1)

0

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

0 5 10 15 20 25

Safe Working Load (tonnes)

Fac

tor

of

Saf

ety

APPEA (OFFSHORE)

AS1666 -1995 (ONSHORE)

6

5.3

6.1


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5.7 Specific Requirements for Offshore Use

5.7.1 Synthetic Slings (Refer AS 1353.17.2-1997, AS 4497.1&.2 -1997)

Synthetic slings shall not be used on Offshore Containers. Synthetic slings may be used where hardslings would cause damage to the lifted load or where safety may be enhanced by their use.

Factors of safety for both types of slings are given in Section 5.4. Synthetic slings are manufacturedfrom nylon, polyester, polypropylene and Aramid Polyamide and their labels are coloured green,blue, brown and yellow respectively.

Only polyester (blue label) slings are considered suitable for offshore service.

Synthetic slings are more susceptible to damage than other types of slings and special proceduresshould be developed for storage, inspection, identification, tagging and discard criteria.

Load testing requirements are covered in the above mentioned codes. It is generally accepted thatit is more economical to replace used slings than retest them, particularly in the smaller sizes.

5.7.2 Safety Shackles

It is preferred to use safety shackles rather than screw pin shackles. Where screw pin shackles areused, the pins must be suitably seized using seizing wire. Plastic cable ties shall not be used tosecure pins. Shackles can be supplied as Grade S or Grade T. Generally Grade S shackles arepreferred.

5.7.3 Eyebolts

Eye-bolts shall not be used for offshore boat lifts.

5.7.4 Chain Slings

Chain slings manufactured from grade T chain (Australian Standard AS2321) have beentraditionally the preferred chain slings for offshore use. As a result of documented failures duringoffshore lifts with grade T chain slings, manufactured using boron modified material, chain slingsshould comply with the following guidelines.

• All new purchases of chain slings for offshore use shall specify chain slings to ISO 3076 orISO 7593 until such time as Australian Standards are upgraded.

• Existing slings using AS2321 grade T chain made from boron modified material may stillbe used for lifts where there is redundancy in the rigging arrangement (4 leg assemblies).They shall not be used for single or two leg sling lifts where there is no redundancy.

Where chain slings are used for Offshore Lifting Operations a minimum chain size of 10mm shouldbe adopted.

5.7.5 Wire Rope Slings

Where wire rope slings are used for Offshore Lifting Operations a minimum diameter of 13mmshould be adopted.


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5.8 Design of Offshore Container Pad Eyes & Their Attachment

Pad eyes for “Lifted Equipment” up to a maximum weight of approximately 25 tonnes that areintended for repeated use should be designed on the following basis:

• The dynamic amplification factor (DAF) is to be taken from the graph in Appendix Dbased on the total lifted load.

• The “Design Load” shall be taken as the “Resulting Sling Force” (RSF) times the DAF.The resulting sling load will take into account of the sling angle (apex angle of 60 degreesis common) and the diagonalling effects described in Clause 5.6.

• The load factor described in Clause 2.2 of AS1170.1 SAA loading code shall be taken as1.0 on the basis that the maximum static load is known accurately.

• Pad eye local capacity checks should be conducted using AS4100 “Steel StructuresCode,” Clause 7.5.

• A lateral load of 5% times RSF shall be applied concurrently with the RSF. The lateralload shall be multiplied by the DAF. The lateral load shall be applied perpendicular to theplane of the pad eye at a minimum height of the shackle pin centre line.

• The combined actions of the biaxial bending and tension should be checked using AS4100“Steel Structures Code,” Clause 8.3.4.

The above approach assumes the use of Australian Standards. The use of equivalent internationallyrecognised standards is also acceptable.

The steel grade used for pad eyes shall be clearly specified on the design drawings. It is recognisedthat 350 grade is widely used but where pad eyes are being checked on an existing container thedesigner shall assume that grade 250 steel has been used unless justification for a higher gradeexists.

Hole sizes in pad eyes should be bored or drilled to provide a diameter equal to the shackle pindiameter plus 3mm or 4% greater than the shackle pin diameter, whichever gives the larger hole.The thickness of the pad eye should be at least 75% of the shackle width to avoid “twisting” theshackle. The maximum thickness of the pad eye shall be such that a total minimum gap of 5mm ismaintained to avoid “binding”. Bolted on pad eyes should not be used on offshore containers.

5.9 Design of Lifted Equipment (Offshore Containers)

“Lifted Equipment” consisting of structural steelwork such as: offshore containers, skids, skips,frames and bins which are intended for repeated use shall be designed in accordance with DNV2.7-1.

The container shall be checked for two conditions as follows:

• 4 point lift in accordance with Clause 3.2.1.1 of DNV 2.7-1.

• 2 point lift in accordance with Clause 3.7.1.3 of DNV 2.7-1.

The allowable stress for both conditions is given in clause 3.2 of DNV 2.7-1. Structural designer’sattention is also drawn to clause 3.2.3 of the DNV certification notes 2.7.1 regarding minimummaterial thickness.


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Where a material other than structural steel is used, a design engineer should determine theappropriate design standards and load factors.

5.10 ISO Containers used as Lifted Equipment

Sea (ISO) Containers can be described as containers built for international shipping and aredesigned to carry general purpose cargo internationally and interstate. They generally have “twistlock” type corner fittings for lifting with a purpose built frame. Sea (ISO) containers are notspecifically designed for use as offshore containers in operations associated with the offshorepetroleum industry.

It is recommended that the use of such containers as "lifted equipment" be phased out as soon aspossible. The use of ISO containers and their transportation offshore is not precluded provided theyare not lifted equipment. Such use is not covered by these guidelines.

A target date of December 31st 2000 has been set for the complete phase out of ISO containers aslifted equipment.. Contractors are advised to check with individual operators for their requirementswith respect to the phase out of ISO shipping containers. During the transition period, the followingguidelines should apply to their use as offshore containers:

• they should not be loaded above 40% of their ISO Maximum Gross Mass (MGM) rating(Refer to CSC plate on container) and,

• should be inspected & tested in accordance with Appendices F & H;

• all lifting should be conducted using pad eyes. Twist lock fittings shall not be used forlifting;

• there should be trace-ability of the material used for pad eyes fitted to the container and ofall welding carried out on the container;

• Open top ISO containers should not be used as offshore containers.

• Closed ISO containers of greater than 6 metres (20 ft) in length should not be used asoffshore containers.

• prior to any intended offshore use, thorough inspections should be carried out on thecontainer’s floor support members and door latching mechanisms. These are critical to thecontainer’s integrity;

• inspections should be conducted by competent persons. Refer to clause 2.4.2 forcompetency requirements; and

• fork-lift pockets shall only be used for onshore lifting.

Prior to the container phase out date, inspection and testing of ISO shipping containers used in theoffshore oil and gas industry should be performed according to the APPEA Guidelines for the PhaseOut of ISO Shipping Containers (Refer Appendix H).


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5.11 Design of Sub-sea Lifts

Sub-sea lifts are a specialised form of lift the design of which should only be undertaken byqualified engineers with experience in this area. Generally, the design of “Lifting Equipment”should follow the same approach as that for a similar lift in air. Sub-sea “Lifting Equipment” shouldbe designed in accordance with “DNV Marine Operations, Part 2 Chapter 6 - Sub-Sea Operations”or a recognised equivalent standard. The lift design should take into account factors specific to theoffshore environment in which the lift is being conducted. As a minimum, consideration should begiven to the following factors associated with sub-sea lifts, many of which are highly dependent onthe shape of the equipment being lifted:

• Viscous drag due to diversion of water around the “Lifted Equipment” (noting that velocityof equipment in water = winch velocity plus angular velocity due to vessel roll).

• Reduced mass of the “Lifted Equipment” in water due to buoyancy.

• Near surface and near seabed stability due to the vibration absorption/amplification of thesurrounding fluid.

• When the “Lifted Equipment” is at or just above the air/water interface, allowing for themass of the water to be temporarily supported when waves break over the equipment.

• Suction when lifting off the sea bed.

• When in water, force due to the apparent additional inertia from accelerated water= mass of water x g x (DAF - 1.0).

• Force due to equipment, marine growth and sediments= mass of items in water x g x DAF.

As the hook of the “Lifting Device” will rise and fall in the water due to vessel roll, rigging for“Lifted Equipment” needs to be of sufficient length to avoid the hook striking divers, ROVs andother sub-sea equipment in the vicinity of the lift. Pad eyes and rigging should be of a suitablecolour and of sufficient size to enable easy location and use by divers or ROVs.

Many of the above factors can be reduced by the use of specialised equipment and techniques.When a self-compensating winch or other line load control system is used, the effects of vessel rollon dynamics and velocity in water may be reduced. When an item is lifted off the seabed, suctioneffects can be reduced by sliding before raising. Excessive mass due to marine growth andentrapped sediments may be removed prior to lifting.

The above factors cannot be avoided by assuming motion of the “Lifted Equipment” is alwaysdownward, as any requirement to stop lowering prior to placement, either planned or in emergency,may result in their occurrence.

5.12 Materials of Construction and Fabrication Requirements

Fabrication of “Lifting Equipment” shall be in accordance with recognised international orAustralian standards.

All materials should be suitable and safe for their intended purpose; for the fabrication, transport,installation and use of “Lifting Equipment”; and to comply with the requirements for materials innominated Australian or international standards. Particular attention should be paid to the fracturetoughness of materials.


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Vendors and fabricators should have quality management systems equivalent to ISO9001, ISO9002or ISO9003. All materials used in the fabrication of “Lifting Equipment” shall have documentationin accordance with the contractor’s quality control procedures to demonstrate trace-ability. Asapplicable, some or all of this documentation may be required to support the equipment register.

5.13 Documentation – New Build Lifted Equipment

All “Lifted Equipment” should be issued with a Certificate of Conformity prior to their initial proofload testing. This must be issued as a separate document or as a dedicated section included on theLoad Test Certificate and must be signed by an endorsed signatory of the "body" (refer to section2.6 Designers & Verifiers of Lifted Equipment, Lifting Devices and Rigging for Engineered Lifts).

The Certificate of Conformity should contain the following information:

• Assurance that the lifted item (container) has been designed, fabricated to offshore “LiftingEquipment" standards (eg. DNV, Lloyds etc.). The owner of the equipment shall retain thecertificate.

• Tank containers that are required to comply with the International Maritime DangerousGoods (IMDG) regulations, should also be certified in accordance with the IMDG code.

The certificate of conformity shall be based on the following documentation, collated in an “asbuilt” dossier, which shall be retained by the lifted equipment owner:

• structural calculations;

• drawings;

• specifications for welding procedures;

• welder qualifications;

• material certificates;

• report on trace-ability of materials;

• report from fabrication inspection;

• report from non-destructive examination;

• report from prototype testing;

• report from proof testing; and

• report from final inspection.

The "Certificate of Conformity" shall contain the following information:

• item fabrication number;

• the Certificate number;

• description of the item including;


Page 24

§ external dimensions;

§ number of lifting points;

§ name of fabricator;

§ date of fabrication;

§ maximum gross weight in kilograms;

§ tare weight in kilograms;

§ net weight in kilograms;

§ reference to the “as built” dossier;

§ the total gross weight in kilograms applicable to the all points lifting test and the actualmethod of test;

§ specification of lifting set;

§ angle of legs (from horizontal);

§ shackle bolt diameter;

§ required safety factor (against breaking);

§ conformity to other requirements and codes;

§ a statement that the item has been designed, fabricated and tested in accordance withthis guideline;

§ remarks; and

§ signature on behalf of the certifying body.

Proprietary devices and “Lifted Equipment”, such as drum lifters, plate clamps, etc, should have atest certificate and be accompanied by a maintenance and operating manual (where required) andshould only be used for onshore, inshore and on platform lifts.

5.14 Documentation for Existing Lifted Equipment

It is recommended that a Certificate of Conformity be issued for existing “Lifted Equipment” at thenext due date for periodic load testing with final compliance date being 4 years after the initial issueof these guidelines. If all the requirements for issuing a Certificate of Conformity cannot be metthen the date of the next scheduled load test may be extended by a maximum of 3 months to permitload testing under these guidelines to be carried out. During this period the item of lifted equipmentmay continue to be used.

The minimum requirement to enable a Certificate of Conformity to be issued for existing “LiftedEquipment” are as follows:


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• Existing “Lifted Equipment” is inspected in accordance with Section 8 and Appendix Iand found to have passed the certified visual inspection and NDT where appropriate (eg.Pad eyes).

• Pad eye designs should be reviewed by an experienced Engineer (refer to clause 2.6 forcompetency requirements) to ensure compliance with clause 5.8. Where pad eyes do notmeet this standard they should be modified appropriately.

• The design of the item has been reviewed by an experienced Engineer (refer to clause2.6 for competency requirements). The review should confirm that the item of “LiftedEquipment” has sufficient structural integrity to pass load tests specified in Table F.2. ofAppendix F.

• Load testing of “Lifted Equipment” is conducted by an appropriate body in accordancewith Table F.2. of Appendix F.

• Load testing of rigging is conducted by an appropriate body in accordance with TableF.3. of Appendix F.

• Rigging shall meet the requirements of Appendix C, where existing rigging is retainedsome reduction in the maximum SWL may be required.

5.15 Initial Load Tests for Lifted Equipment

New lifted equipment as listed in section 1.3 shall be proof load tested to the requirements ofAppendix F.4. For competency requirements refer to section 2.5.1.The accrediting body may request a drop test of containers when verifying a design for the firsttime. Precautions should be taken when securing test loads, particularly for a 2 point lifting test.

The container shall be considered to have passed the initial load test provided there is no permanentdeformation of the container. Deformation can readily be measured using two taut wires strungbetween the diagonal corners of the container.

The test masses shall normally be evenly distributed inside the item. When the designer of newequipment or the design verifier* of existing equipment considers it impracticable to applysufficient test load inside an item (other than an offshore container) then the designer or designverifier shall recommend a method of load test for the item. If it is not possible to place all the testmass inside the item, some of it may be placed outside or under the item, provided that this gives aloading on the structure similar to the distribution of the item loading in operating conditions.

(*refer to 2.6 for competency requirements

Note: The alternate method of test loading described above does not apply to offshore freightcontainers. All offshore containers MUST have the full test load evenly distributed over the floorarea.

5.16 Non Destructive Testing (Offshore Containers Including ISO Containers)

NDT at fabrication shall include inspection of the lifting points (pad eyes) and the connectionsimmediately adjacent to the lifting points as a minimum.

Consideration should also be given to the NDT inspection of all primary members and theirconnections.

NDT inspection shall be conducted by an appropriate inspection body. Refer to Clause 2.5 forcompetency requirements.


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6 DESIGN OF TANKS FOR FLUIDS

In addition to complying with other relevant design codes and requirements, tank containers forfluids shall be suitable for offshore service.

Tanks which could be used to transport fluids shall be designed to conform to relevant sections of:

• AS 1692 Tanks for Flammable and Combustible Liquids

• AS/NZ 3711.6 Tank Containers

• IMDG Code

• DNV 2.7-1 Certification Notes - Offshore Containers

• EN 12079:1999 Offshore Containers – Design, Construction, Testing, Inspection andmarking’

These guidelines for offshore tanks for fluids coincide with the requirements of DNV 2.7-1, section3.5 and EN12079, section 5.5.

The following is an extract from EN12079:

“Tanks for dangerous cargoes shall fulfil the requirements of the IMDG Code and shall bedesigned according to recognised rules for pressure vessels. A tank and its support shall beable to withstand lifting and impact loads. In addition, due account shall be taken of fluidsurge arising from partly filled tanks.”

Note: Chapter 13 of the general introduction to the IMDG Code does not allow tanks with a lengthabove 3m to be handled by fork-lift in a loaded condition. Special protection of the tank and fittingsin the area near the fork pockets is required.

On tank containers for dangerous cargoes, all parts of the tank and fittings shall be suitablyprotected from impact damage by a frame, suitable for offshore service where applicable. Inaddition to the IMDG Code, the following shall apply:

• Beams, plates or grating, shall protect the top of the tank and its fittings. No part of thetank or its fittings shall extend above a level 100mm below the top of the framework. Itshall not be possible for any part of the lifting set to foul fittings, manhole cleats or otherprotrusions on the tank.

• Protective beams shall be placed at or near the location where the tank shell is nearest tothe outer plane of the sides. Beams shall be spaced sufficiently close together to give thenecessary protection.

• At the maximum calculated elastic deflection of any side member, the residual clearancebetween the member and any part of the tank shell or its fittings shall be at least 10mm.

• No part of the underside of the tank shell (including sumps), the bottom valves or otherfittings shall extend below a level 150mm above the bottom of the framework. Any suchpart extending below a level 300mm above the bottom of the framework shall beprotected by beams or plating.

• Tank containers designed with direct connection between the tank and the side or top frameelements shall be subject to special consideration by the operator or during operation toavoid damage.


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7 MARKING OF LIFTING EQUIPMENT

7.1 General

All “Lifting Equipment” shall be marked with an individual identification code (“Unique Number”)and the safe working load (SWL) as determined from the design. Where appropriate, for certain“Lifted Equipment”, the SWL may be replaced by the tare mass and maximum gross mass. Theidentification code shall enable the operator to link the manufacturer and test certification numbers.For contractor owned equipment, this code should include unique character(s) or colour to indicatethe owner.

Where equipment is used both for onshore and offshore lifts it shall be marked with the offshoreSWL rating.

7.2 Marking of Lifting Devices

7.2.1 Fixed Location Pad Eyes

Valid certified pad eyes which have undergone proof loading and non destructive testing should beidentifiable at point of location with the pad eye centrally positioned in a 30 cm x 30 cm paintedsquare (minimum size). The SWL and the identification number should be stencilled with the textand background in contrasting colours.

7.3 Marking of Lifted Equipment

“Lifted Equipment” including equipment containers, skips, baskets, frames and similar items areexpected to be marked with the information as shown on examples of marking plates provided inAppendix I or a similar alternative.

All characters marked on the container (eg. Tare, Nett and Gross) should be durable, ofproportionate width and thickness and in a colour contrasting with that of the container. Themarkings should be clearly legible and, if painted, stencilled.

Manufacturer’s plates should be of a suitable size for the required information as indicated inAppendix I and should be of durable material (eg; stainless steel or marine grade aluminium) andsecurely fixed in a visible but protected location.

Inspection & test plates should be of a suitable size as indicated in Appendix I. The plates should beupdated or replaced when either load testing, NDT or certified visual inspection is carried out.

Containers and tanks used for dangerous cargoes should be marked according to the requirements ofthe IMDG Code, in addition to the marking requirements of this Section.

7.4 Container and Roof Identification Markings

Each container should be marked with a container number issued by the owner as a uniqueidentification, which should be the common cross-reference on all in service certification, shippingdocumentation, etc.

The container number shall be prominently displayed on all sides of the container (as viewed fromground level) in characters of contrasting colour, not less than 75 mm high.


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If the container has a roof, the container number should be displayed on the roof, in characters notless than 300 mm high (or less if space is limited). The marking should be carried out in such a wayas to avoid incorrect interpretation (eg. by underlining). Where applicable, the lower edge markingshould be positioned near the side of the container in which the door is located.

7.5 Lifting Frame and Beam Markings

The minimum marking required for each lifting frame and lifting beam should include ID No,TARE and SWL. The marking should be done using 50 mm letters. Where required, the designapproval number allocated by the relevant Statutory Authority should be added. Where no suitablelocation exists, painted markings down to 25 mm on a securely fixed plate are acceptable. Stampedmarkings should not be less than 8 mm in height.

7.6 Marking of Rigging

The appropriate Australian Standards provide all marking details for rigging. Wire rope riggingassemblies shall be tagged in accordance with AS1666.1 Section 7. Chain rigging assemblies shallbe tagged in accordance with AS3775 Section 8.


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8 PERIODIC INSPECTION, TESTING AND MAINTENANCE

8.1 General

The periodic inspection, testing, and maintenance (including repairs) of all “Lifting Equipment”,including contractor owned, shall be conducted by competent personnel. Periodic inspection,testing and maintenance shall be conducted in a manner to ensure safety to people and plant. Whenrequested, contractors must supply the operator with copies of all relevant certificates before the“Lifting Equipment” is used at any location under the operator’s jurisdiction.

A specific inspection, maintenance and testing plan should be developed for each “Lifting Device”,each item of “Lifted Equipment” and rigging assembly or item. Where a Safety Case is in place thisplan should be risk based and developed in accordance with the appropriate safety case guidelines.The inspection, testing and maintenance plan should consider the following factors:

• manufacturer’s recommendations;

• statutory requirements;

• relevant historical data;

• frequency of use; and

• operational environmental conditions.

The plan should address:

• periodical inspection and maintenance routines (eg. weekly, annual);

• a feedback loop to allow modifications to routines based on performance;

• procedures for documenting results of inspections and tests;

• procedure for colour coding inspected and tested equipment; and

• inspector’s responsibility and qualification matrix.

Records of testing, inspection, maintenance, repair and modification should be included in the“Lifting Equipment” Register.

All “Lifting Equipment” shall be visually checked prior to each use by appropriately certified cranedriver, dogger or rigger (as applicable). This inspection should ensure that:

• equipment is appropriate for load to be applied;

• equipment is in good condition;

• equipment is correctly labelled

Non complying equipment shall be tagged and either removed from site or repaired.

Scheduled testing and inspections should include test loading, non-destructive testing (NDT) andvisual inspection (as appropriate). Recommended inspection and testing frequencies are provided inAppendix F.


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Variations to these recommended frequencies are acceptable where a reliability based approach is inplace under a facility’s safety case.

8.2 Lifting Devices

8.2.1 Inspection Before and After Proof Loading

For “Lifting Devices” and associated rigging, inspection should be performed in accordance withthe Australian Standards.

For equipment not covered by Australian Standards, the equipment owner in conjunction with theinspector should select the most appropriate of those inspection requirements provided in AS 1418for “other devices”.

For specially fabricated devices such as overhead pad eyes, the requirements for “LiftedEquipment” should be applied.

8.3 Lifted Equipment

The following requirements for inspection apply to “Lifted Equipment”. Note that theserequirements are based on DNV recommendations for periodic inspection of “Lifted Equipment”.These requirements are guidelines for inspection or repair organisations to develop their owndetailed work instructions or procedures. These requirements should be subject to the equipmentowner and/or users approval.

All “Lifted Equipment” should be periodically inspected by an appropriate body. Refer to Clause2.4.2 for competency requirements.

The inspection should meet the following requirements:

• prior to testing, key dimensions and straightness should be measured;

• structure should be visually examined for corrosion, mechanical damage and injuriousdeformation;

• all accessible load bearing welds should be visually examined to ensure freedom fromdefects;

• the lifting points should be visually examined for distortion, mechanical damage or anyother sign of distress or overload;

• doors, frames, seals, hinges, locks etc. should be visually examined and functionallychecked to ensure that they operate in a satisfactory manner without undue force beingrequired;

• the floor should be visually examined to check that it is substantially flat with no sign ofdistress or overload. Drainage facilities, where fitted should be examined, eg. drain holesshould be clear of debris etc.;

• the paint markings and plates should be checked to see that they meet therecommendations of this document;


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• inspect lifting set for: rating, condition, currency of test etc.;

• if due or required proof load test.;

• after completion of a proof test load, the equipment should be re-examined for signs ofpermanent deformation caused by the test. Any deformation or weld defect caused by theload test shall result in the withdrawal of the equipment from service until all such faultshave been corrected and a further satisfactory load test completed;

• NDT by the method nominated on the drawings if due, or required;

• welds to all pad eyes and members directly supporting pad eyes should be subject to100% magnetic particle inspection (MPI); and

• where it is determined that a fault is related to design or fabrication quality, a modificationor repair method shall be developed, and approved by the responsible person, beforecommencement of any rectification works.

Detailed guidelines for the inspection, testing and marking of offshore containers are provided inAppendix I APPEA Guidelines for the Inspection Testing and Marking of Offshore Containers.

Where proof loading is not a viable option, (ie. where access for loading is restricted such as fortransportable buildings with small doorways) structural assessment of the container may bedetermined by a certified visual inspection. The certified visual inspection of the container shall beconducted by an appropriate inspection body. Refer to Clause 2.4.2 for competency requirements.For inspection requirements refer to Appendix I.

8.4 Rigging

8.4.1 Proof Loading of Rigging used for Offshore Lifting (Boat Lifts)

The rigging for the “Lifted Equipment” shall be subject to a proof force that is not less than 40% ofthe rated minimum breaking load (MBL) of the member.

Proof Load = 40% x Rt x Rm x MBL,

Where Rt and Rm are defined in section 5.4

The sling shall withstand the application of the proof force, without sustaining damage that mayaffect its intended function or safety. The sling shall also be free from any deleterious permanent setor defects visible to the unaided eye.

AS1666 (wire rope) & AS3775 (chain) testing requirements for individual legs of a multi legassembly shall be complied with.

Proof load testing of rigging and NDT testing as appropriate shall be conducted by an appropriatebody. Refer to Clause 2.5 and 2.5.1 for competency requirements.

After proof loading has been completed, the sling or slings shall be marked with a safe workingload as determined in accordance with these Guidelines. The safe working load shall be marked onthe sling or slings in a manner which is in accordance with AS1666 or AS3775 as applicable.


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For all sling assemblies (both chain and wire rope), AS1666 1995 requires that the head ring betested separately from the rigging attached to it. Refer to AS1666 1995 for further details.

Test frequencies and other test requirements are included in Appendix F, Tables F2 and F3.

8.5 Repairs and Modifications to Lifting Equipment

Repairs and modifications to “Lifting Devices” should be carried out to conform with the originalmanufacturer’s specification and in accordance with Section 4. For “Lifted Equipment” where it isnot clear whether a member is structural or not, guidance should be sought from a qualified designengineer. Design changes that alter the original structural details or safe working load capabilities ofthe “Lifting Equipment” should be approved by a qualified design engineer. Refer to clause 2.6 forcompetency requirements.

“Lifting Equipment” shall be proof load tested following repairs involving modifications or heatapplication to structural members.

All repairs or modifications should be recorded in the “Lifting Equipment” Register (Section 3).


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9 SAFE OPERATING PROCEDURES

9.1 Lifting Operations between Platforms and Vessels

9.1.1 Planning

The Australian Offshore Support Vessel Code of Safe Working Practice provides guidance onlifting operations between platforms and vessels.

The safe conduct of lifting operations involving the transfer of cargo between a platform and avessel require planning and a high level of communications among the parties involved in theseoperations.

Prior to the start of any lifting operations, the communications between the person in charge of thefacility and the Master of the vessel, or their appointed deputies, should address the followingissues:

• the suitability of existing and forecast weather conditions for the required liftingoperations involving the vessel;

• communications arrangements between the facility and the vessel during the liftingoperation;

• any limitations or restrictions affecting, or which may interrupt, the proposed operations;

• the nature and weights of the cargo to be transferred and any special lifting requirements;

• whether any of the proposed lifts require special consideration, safeguards or controlsduring lifting, or special securing arrangements on the vessel;

• rigging arrangements to be used and any special rigging requirements; and

• procedures to be used in the event of an emergency occurring while lifting operations arebeing conducted.

9.1.2 Communications

Safe lifting operations rely on there being effective communications among the Master of thevessel, the person in charge of the facility, the crane operator, the deck officer in charge on thevessel and the deck crews on both the facility and the vessel. A reliable radio communication linkon a dedicated channel or frequency should be maintained throughout the operations. The craneoperator on the facility should have direct radio communication with the vessel.

The crane operator should have a clear view of the deck areas on both the facility and the vessel.Where this is impractical, a dogger should be so stationed as to have a clear view of the deck area toassist the crane operator. Directions given to the crane operator by the deck crew on the vessel mustonly be given by one person who has been clearly identified for that purpose.

9.1.3 Lift Preparation and Handling

Wherever practicable, all lifts should be pre-slung using rigging which conforms to theseguidelines. Rigging should allow the deck crew to connect / disconnect the lift at deck level.


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Open cargo baskets containing loose materials should be provided with safety nets or covers toprevent wind borne discharge of the contents during lifting operations or while in transit. Doors andlids on closed containers must be securely fastened.

No container should be loaded in excess of its rated capacity. Material should not be added tocontainers, skips, cargo baskets, etc already transferred to the deck of a vessel unless it is safe to doso, the capacity of the container will not be exceeded, and the change to the loading is recorded onthe manifest.

9.2 Personnel Transfers

Personnel baskets (eg. Billy Pugh) should only be used where the use of alternative means oftransferring personnel is impractical or unsafe. They should only be carried out under the authorityof the person in charge of the facility and with the agreement of the personnel being transferred andthe master of the vessel involved.

Each facility should have documented procedures for this type of operation. These proceduresshould address the issues identified in these guidelines.

9.2.1 Authority

The person having the authority to approve personnel basket transfers should be clearly identified.Approval should not be given unless this person is satisfied that the personnel involved agree to thetransfer operations and the transfer can be safely carried out.

9.2.2 Duties

The duties of personnel in supervising or carrying out the personnel basket transfer should beclearly defined. Generally, this would include the person in charge of the facility, the craneoperator, the Master of the vessel, and other people nominated by the person in charge and theMaster of the vessel to undertake specific duties.

The Person in charge of the facility should:

• be aware of the reason for the transfer;

• be satisfied with the fitness and training of the people to be transferred;

• be satisfied as to the suitability of the vessel;

• know the limitations of visibility and sea state;

• be aware of the limitations on transfer by night;

• be aware of the suitability of the crane for personnel transfer;

• check the wind speed limitations on crane operations;

• establish satisfactory communications with the Master of the vessel involved in the

transfer;

• ensure that participants understand the procedures involved;

• be satisfied with the competence and experience of the crane driver; and

• be satisfied with the inspection and testing of the personnel basket.

The Master of the vessel should confirm to the person in charge of the facility that:


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• the transfer has been accepted and the procedures have been understood;

• the vessel has a satisfactory station keeping capability;

• the deck crew have been fully briefed;

• the people to be transferred have been adequately briefed and are fit to be transferred.

The crane operator should ensure that:

• the crane is fully operational;

• the wind speed is satisfactory for safe operation;

• the requirements and procedures involved are clearly understood;

• the dogger and the transfer area are clearly visible;

• adequate communications have been established.

The dogger and deck supervisor should ensure that:

• the transfer procedure is understood;

• they are clearly identifiable as dogger and deck supervisor;

• the personnel basket is correctly used;

• the transferees are fit for transfer and understand the procedures;

• proper communications have been established;

• respectively they have a full view of the transfer areas.

• The personnel basket is connected to the crane by a closed hook

• A safety sling is provided between the rigging of the personnel basket and a point on the

crane hoist line above the hook.

Individuals who are to be transferred should:

• ensure that they understand the transfer procedure;

• confirm that they are agreeable to the transfer;

• be able to use correctly the safety equipment provided;

• observe all instructions from those in charge of the operation.

9.2.3 Suitability of the vessel

The type of vessel considered suitable to carry out a transfer should be determined by its ability tomaintain station alongside the facility and have sufficient clear deck space to safely receive thebasket.


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9.2.4 Weather conditions

Weather conditions are critical factors impacting on the safety of personnel basket transfers. Factorswhich should be taken into account include visibility, wind and sea state. Guidelines should beprovided which specify the maximum wind speed and sea state beyond which basket transfer is notpermissible, including the wind speed limitations for crane operations and the effect of weatherconditions on the stability of the vessel.

9.2.5 Communications

Both radio and visual communication should be established and maintained between thosepersonnel conducting the operation.

9.2.6 Safety equipment and rescue procedures

The procedures should specify the type of safety equipment to be worn by personnel beingtransferred and the rescue arrangements made. Personnel being transferred should wear life-jackets,suitable clothing and other specified safety equipment. Life-jackets should be equipped withsuitable means of illumination during night transfers. The standby vessel should be in closeattendance during transfer, with the rescue boat ready for immediate launching.

9.2.7 Training

Personnel will be transferred by basket in greater safety and with less apprehension if they, and thepersonnel conducting the transfer, have received training in the techniques involved. The type oftraining required can be included in installation drills. Inexperienced people or those not trained inthe use of personnel baskets should always be accompanied by someone who has been trained inpersonnel transfer procedures.

Documents

APPEA Guidelines for Lliting Equipment