2 While the provisions of paragraph 2.2.3.1 of the Code require the fitting of an inner
bow door on ro-ro high-speed craft fitted with bow loading opening,
the Code recognizes that exemption from this requirement may be granted
in a number of cases which are stated in paragraph
2.2.3.2 of the Code. One of these alternatives is set out in paragraph 2.2.3.2.2 of the Code which
states that, if it can be demonstrated that a craft complies with
certain residual stability criteria, even if water accumulates on
the vehicle deck as a result of failure of the bow shell door, it
may qualify for such an exemption. Model testing is identified in
the Code as one of the options for determining the quantity of water
that the craft in question may accumulate.
3 The Committee, at its seventy-fifth session
(15 to 24 May 2002), approved Interim Guidelines for the conduct of
high-speed craft model tests (MSC/Circ.1029)
which were intended to ensure that the aforementioned model tests
would be sufficient and adequate so that requests for exemption are
considered and granted in a consistent and safe manner without jeopardizing
the safety of the craft and to enable the Administration to consult
with each of the port States between which the craft may operate.
4 The Committee further agreed that:
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.1 the Interim Guidelines should be applied with
a view to verification and further development in the light of experience,
and should be revisited after a period of time not exceeding four
years following the date of entry into force of the Code;
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.2 comparative model tests should be conducted
and the results of such tests should be submitted to the Organization,
so as to validate and further refine the Interim Guidelines; and
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.3 Member Governments should undertake to seek
the comments on, and evaluation of, the Interim Guidelines from the
International Towing Tank Conference (ITTC) and, subsequently, collect
information from the ITTC, in particular the results of their experience,
and submit it to the Organization for consideration with a view to
improving the Interim Guidelines.
5 The Committee, at its eighty-first session (10
to 19 May 2006), approved Guidelines for the conduct of high-speed
craft model tests, prepared by the Sub-Committee on Ship Design and
Equipment at its forty-ninth session, revising the Interim Guidelines,
as set out in the annex.
6 Member Governments are invited to make use of
the annexed Guidelines and bring them to the attention of craft designers,
craft owners and other parties concerned, as appropriate, when considering
the provisions of paragraph 2.2.3.2.2 of
the Code.
7 This circular supersedes the Interim Guidelines
for the conduct of high-speed craft model tests (MSC/Circ.1029).