Cargo Carrying Units (CCUs) are durable, offshore-certified containers designed for transporting goods safely in extreme maritime environments. Essential in the oil and gas industry, CCUs withstand harsh weather, rough seas, and corrosive conditions.
Adhering to DNV 2.7-1 and ISO 10855 standards ensures their structural integrity, safety, and compliance. These regulations cover design, manufacturing, testing, and certification, enhancing operational efficiency and risk management. Various CCU types, including standard containers, reefers, and offshore skips, serve diverse needs.
Innovations like lightweight materials, smart tracking, and sustainable practices are shaping the future of CCUs, ensuring safer and more efficient offshore logistics.
Introduction
Offshore environments are among the most demanding and hazardous workplaces globally. The offshore oil and gas industry experiences a significant number of accidents and incidents each year.
This is mainly due to the harsh weather, rough seas, and the inherent risks associated with handling heavy equipment in confined spaces.
To preserve operational continuity in such a high-stakes setting, it’s imperative that goods be moved safely and effectively. This is where cargo-carrying units come into play.
What are Cargo Carrying Units (CCUs)?
Cargo Carrying Units (CCUs) are specialised hard-wearing containers engineered specifically for offshore environments. Primarily deployed in the oil and gas industry, they are expressly designed to transport various types of cargo safely and efficiently to offshore platforms.
More than just generic containers, CCUs represent advanced engineering solutions tailored for the unique challenges of offshore logistics. Unlike standard shipping containers, they are built to withstand high winds, rough seas, and corrosive saltwater, typically found at sea.
In fact, they must meet the rigorous DNV 2.7-1 safety certification, which guarantees their durability and reliability during transport and handling operations.
To improve their functionality and safety, they include features like secure locking mechanisms, unique lifting points, and reinforced structures.
CCUs may be tailored for particular cargo categories, such as temperature-sensitive items or hazardous compounds. This makes them highly versatile tools for offshore operations.
Beyond prioritising cargo protection, they also facilitate efficient loading and unloading processes on vessels and platforms. Thereby, optimising operational workflows in demanding offshore settings.
Purpose of CCUs in offshore operations
In offshore operations, CCUs offer a secure and effective medium for transporting equipment and supplies to and from offshore platforms. In fact, in harsh offshore conditions, they preserve operational continuity in several ways, such as:
- Safety: They guarantee safe cargo transportation in extreme weather and corrosive saltwater environments. To withstand such conditions, they are constructed with secure locking mechanisms, specialised lifting points, and reinforced structures.
- Efficiency: CCUs streamline logistics by offering a consistent approach to cargo handling. This standardisation minimises handling time and maximises platform and vessel area use.
- Cost reduction: CCUs help appreciably reduce the cost of storage and transportation by facilitating effective logistics. Damage and delays can be costly in offshore activities. CCUs mitigate this risk due to their ability to transfer cargo swiftly and safely—with a fewer number of trips.
Key features of CCUs
Several key features distinguish CCUs from standard containers, enabling them to withstand harsh offshore conditions. Let’s take a look at some, shall we?
- Robust construction: CCUs are underpinned by reinforced and heavy-duty steel frameworks. As such, they are guaranteed to withstand harsh environments. In stark contrast, conventional containers are built to prioritise weight efficiency for transportation.
- Certified lifting points: CCUs maintain certified lifting points designed for crane operations. These regulation-mandated lifting points ensure safe and reliable hoisting in dynamic environments such as oil rigs and marine vessels. In contrast, standard containers are mainly engineered for stacking and forklift transportation.
- Securing mechanisms: CCUs are natively equipped with lashings, tie-down points, and internal restraints to withstand rough offshore conditions. Standard containers, on the other hand, have minimal securing mechanisms since they don’t have to endure the same level of high winds and unpredictable movements.
- Specific design for offshore environments: Unlike standard containers designed for land and intermodal transport, CCUs are built to be weatherproof and corrosion-resistant. Their coatings and materials protect against seawater exposure, humidity, and salt-induced corrosion, facilitating prolonged offshore use.
- Compliance with standards: CCUs must meet stringent offshore safety and durability standards. For example, they must adhere to international DNV 2.7-1 and ISO 10855 regulations. Conversely, standard containers mainly adhere to ISO 668 for intermodal transit.
DNV & ISO 10855: The cornerstones of CCU safety and compliance
As highlighted, CCUs face more stringent regulatory standards than conventional containers due to the demanding and hazardous nature of offshore environments.
The design, manufacturing, testing, and certification of offshore CCUs are primarily governed by two benchmark standards, namely:
DNV (Det Norske Veritas)
DNV is the leading globally recognised classification society and certification body. DNV’s mandate is to protect people, property, and the environment by facilitating decision-making with accurate information and trustworthy insights.
It serves various industries, including the maritime sector, oil and gas, renewable energy, and healthcare. DNV offers certification services that ensure containers meet international standards for safety, stability, and usability.
In fact, its standards, such as DNV 2.7-1, define the minimum technical and safety-related requirements for offshore containers. In practice, they encompass design assessment, manufacturing/testing surveillance, and final inspection.
Additionally, DNV helps companies ensure the effectiveness of their supply chains, facilities, personnel, organisations, and goods.
ISO 10855
ISO 10855 is an international standard dedicated to the design, manufacture, and testing of offshore containers and associated lifting sets. First published in 2018, it’s divided into three sections that ensure CCUs are safe for repeated use.
These sections provide detailed specifications for materials, structure, heating, and refrigeration offshore containers used in the oil and gas industry.
In fact, the ISO 10855 series principally serves as a standardised set of international guidelines that improve offshore industry cost-effectiveness, safety, and interoperability. Beyond manufacture and structure integrity, these guidelines also encompass routine testing, maintenance and inspection.
Generally, ISO 10855’s recommendations ensure that CCUs can endure severe marine environments, such as dynamic lifting forces and environmental stressors. Its significance in guaranteeing safe operations at sea is further reinforced by its fulfilment of the requirements of IMO MSC/Circular 860.
Key areas covered by DNV & ISO 10855
For offshore containers, DNV and ISO 10855 are essential regulatory requirements that guarantee dependability and safety in harsh offshore conditions.
ISO 10855 is broken down into three parts. Part 1 covers the design, manufacture, and marking of offshore containers. Part 2 revolves around the design, manufacture, and marking of lifting sets. Part 3 covers periodic inspection, examination, and testing.
The key elements that both standards cover for offshore applications can be summarised as follows:
- Design requirements: DNV and ISO standards ensure structural integrity by specifying material requirements, welding standards, and lifting point designs. As such, they ensure CCUs withstand the dynamic forces and harsh conditions of offshore operations.
- Manufacturing processes: ISO and DNV standards emphasise quality control during fabrication, material traceability, and welding procedures. These measures ensure that each container is built to the required specifications and can reliably perform its intended function.
- Testing protocols: These standards also enforce testing protocols, including load testing (both static and dynamic), non-destructive testing (NDT), and environmental testing (temperature, corrosion) to verify the container’s ability to withstand the stresses and environmental factors encountered offshore.
- Certification and marking: Proper marking and documentation are essential for traceability and compliance. Accreditation bodies document and certify CCUs to ensure that each container is easily identifiable and its history is trackable. This also verifies compliance with the standards.
For more reading, check out: Offshore reefers certification recommendations.
Why are these standards crucial?
Adhering to DNV and ISO 10855 standards is mission-critical for offshore containers for the following reasons:
- Enhanced safety: These standards ensure that offshore containers can endure the elements of the open sea. They also improve CCUs’ ability to withstand potential impact forces during loading and unloading. This, in turn, appreciably minimises the risks of accidents, injuries, and cargo loss offshore.
- Operational reliability: CCUs designed and manufactured according to the ISO 10855 series can perform reliably throughout their lifespan. This makes them valuable assets in offshore operations.
- Legal compliance: Meeting regulatory requirements and avoiding legal liabilities in case of accidents or cargo loss.
- Industry best practice: An offshore company that adheres to ISO and DNV requirements demonstrates a commitment to quality and safety. This builds trust with clients and partners.
- Interoperability: Adhering to ISO and DNV standards facilitates seamless integration of CCUs across different offshore projects and locations. This is because standardised units are globally recognised. For context, the ISO standard was developed by combining existing European, American, and classification bodies standards into a single harmonised agreement.
Types of DNV & ISO 10855 certified CCUs: Matching units to offshore needs
Cargo Carrying Units (CCUs) come in various types, each tailored to meet specific cargo and operational requirements in offshore environments.
Here is a breakdown of the types of CCUs that adhere to DNV and ISO 10855 standards to ensure safety and reliability:
- Standard offshore containers: These CCUs are general-purpose units designed for transporting dry goods, equipment, and materials. Their frameworks ensure they can withstand the rigours of offshore logistics. As such, they are versatile options for various applications, beyond ensuring essential supplies reach offshore platforms safely.
- Offshore reefer containers: These are specialised units expressly designed to maintain temperature-controlled environments for transporting perishable goods. For instance, Ice Wave and Ice Storm reefers are equipped with refrigeration systems that ensure the integrity of temperature-sensitive cargo during transit.
- Offshore baskets: These are open-top units often constructed with mesh sides, allowing for easy access to smaller items and equipment. Their unique design makes them ideal for transporting tools and spare parts.
- Offshore skips and tubs: These are heavy-duty open-top solutions uniquely designed for bulk materials, waste, and fluids. They are useful in waste management operations on offshore platforms as they ensure the safe disposal of materials while maintaining compliance with environmental regulations.
- Offshore tanks: These are specialised CCUs specifically designed for transporting liquids, chemicals, and gases. These tanks are built to meet stringent safety standards to prevent leaks or spills during transport.
- Specialised CCUs: These encompass a range of units designed for specific purposes or equipment needs. For example, generator containers, workshop containers, and accommodation modules. They enhance operational efficiency by providing dedicated spaces for various functions on offshore platforms.
For further information, check out MGS Offshore Products.
The future of offshore CCUs: Innovation and Sustainability
Undoubtedly, the future of Offshore Cargo Carrying Units (CCUs) will be shaped by innovation. This innovation in design and technology will focus on creating lighter, stronger, and smarter units.
For instance, more manufacturers will explore more lightweight composites that reduce the overall weight of CCUs whilst maintaining structural integrity.
We expect to see smarter CCUs that enable real-time monitoring of cargo, location, and condition. This will appreciably enhance visibility and data-driven decision-making for offshore operations.
Modular and adaptable designs will also gain traction. This advancement will allow CCUs to be easily reconfigured for different purposes, enhancing their versatility and cost-effectiveness.
Sustainability will also become a key consideration in CCU manufacturing and operations. This will be exemplified by the increased adoption of more eco-friendly materials and manufacturing processes. Furthermore, optimised designs will be explored to reduce weight and fuel consumption during transportation, contributing to lower carbon emissions.
Extending the lifespan of CCUs through refurbishment programs may be another adopted sustainable practice. This will significantly reduce the need for new manufacturing and minimising waste.
For more reading on advancements within the offshore industry, check out the following pieces:
Conclusion: Investing in safety and reliability with DNV & ISO 10855 CCUs
Offshore Cargo Carrying Units (CCUs) are essential for the efficient and safe transfer of supplies and equipment to and from offshore platforms. They play an indispensable role in offshore logistics and supply chain management with their capacity to withstand rough seas, extreme weather, and corrosive saltwater.
The DNV and ISO certifications are crucial for guaranteeing the efficiency, safety, and compliance of CCUs in demanding offshore operations. These stringent certifications, which include ISO 10855, EN 12079, and DNV 2.7-1, help mitigate the risk of injuries and cargo loss at sea.
As the gold standards for CCUs, they also ensure operational continuity whilst averting any legal liabilities. In fact, investing in ISO-certified CCUs not only promotes operational excellence and risk management but also demonstrates a dedication to quality and safety.
Business Director
A graduate (Business) from KDU, Jason Tan, is the current Business Director (Sales) for MGS Icestorm and has been associated with the company for the past 10 years.
With over 13 years in the shipping industry, he has had a significant contribution to Malaysia’s oil and gas industry in the engine and boat supply sector.
His expertise includes managing offshore catering business, offshore reefer containers, AI technology, offshore gas tanks, A60 pressurized cabins, etc. His contributions have helped establish MGS, in partnership (joint venture) with Thermo King and Honeywell to produce state of art Offshore Reefer Container products.