New Requirements for the Transport of Liquid Chemicals in Bulk for Norwegian Offshore Support Vessels

Many of our members are no doubt aware of new requirements for the transport of liquid chemicals in bulk for Norwegian flagged Offshore Support Vessels (OSVs). The background for this is the amendments to the IBC Code (International Code for the Construction and Equipment of Ships Carrying Dangerous Chemicals in Bulk) and incorporation of the OSV Chemical Code in Norwegian legislation.

The new requirements may necessitate structural changes to existing OSVs, and the development of new requirements for training of personnel on board OSVs are also anticipated.  Whilst the Norwegian Maritime Authority have allowed a transition period to give OSV owners time to consider and implement the new requirements, they are anticipated to come into force in January 2022.

Owing to the complex technical nature of the requirements, we are unable to go into the finer detail at this stage, but for further and more detailed information on the impact of the new requirements, time limits, the challenges and possible solutions, please see circular RSV 23-2020 issued by the Norwegian Maritime Authority. DNV has also provided useful comments on how to address the new requirements.