1 The present Code has been developed for the design, construction and operation of
offshore support vessels (OSVs) which transport hazardous and noxious liquid substances
in bulk for the servicing and resupplying of offshore platforms, mobile offshore
drilling units and other offshore installations, including those employed in the search
for and recovery of hydrocarbons from the seabed.
2 The present Code has been developed in accordance with the requirements set forth in
regulation 11.2 of Annex II to the International Convention for the Prevention of
Pollution from Ships, 1973, as modified by the Protocol of 1978 relating thereto (MARPOL)
and in recognition of the need for standards which provide an alternative to the
International Code for the Construction and Equipment of Ships Carrying Dangerous
Chemicals in Bulk (IBC Code) and the International Code for the Construction and
Equipment of Ships Carrying Liquefied Gases in Bulk (IGC Code) for OSVs.
3 The basic philosophy of the present Code is to apply standards contained in the IBC Code and
the IGC Code to the extent that is practicable and reasonable taking into account the
unique design features and service characteristics of OSVs.
4 The Guidelines for the design and construction of offshore supply vessels, 2006
(resolution MSC.235(82)), as amended, are also applicable to OSVs subject to
the present Code.
5 It is recognized that the technology of the offshore industry is complex and
continuously evolving, as shown by the growing need for specialized vessels such as
well-stimulation vessels. To meet the needs of the industry, the present Code should not
remain static. Therefore, the Organization will periodically review the Code, taking
into account both experience and technical development. Amendments to the Code involving
provisions for new cargoes will be circulated periodically as new cargoes are proposed
for carriage and the provisions are developed.