New ABS guide outlines standards for improved drilling safety

HOUSTON -- ABS, the leading provider of classification and technical services to the offshore industry, has published the ABS Guide for Building and Classing Drilling Tender Barges. This new Guide outlines services and standards for the global drilling tender sector.

“ABS listens to industry needs and provides practical solutions,” says ABS Chairman, President and CEO Christopher J. Wiernicki. “This streamlined, asset-specific Guide demonstrates our commitment to advancing safety in the offshore drilling industry.”

Steady growth is expected in the drilling tender barge sector, with units supporting offshore drilling through delivery of a number of critical functions and serving as platforms for offshore operations. The ABS Guide for Building and Classing Drilling Tender Barges recognizes the range of functions these assets will perform, covering hazardous areas, emergency shutdown, fire protection and pipe racks, and addresses the essential safety concerns they represent.

While ABS Rule sets have always addressed drilling tender barges, this newly released Guide consolidates and clarifies the requirements in one asset-specific document.

Vessels that comply with the Guide receive the Drilling Tender Barge notation.

“This Guide streamlines requirements for drilling tender barges, providing industry with a clear roadmap for class and statutory compliance,” says ABS Chief Technology Officer Howard Fireman. “Drilling tender barges will continue to play an important role in the offshore industry. Through this vitally important Guide, ABS is dedicated to making them safer.”