1 This Code has been developed to provide an international
standard for mobile offshore drilling units of new construction which
will facilitate the international movement and operation of these
units and ensure a level of safety for such units, and for personnel
on board, equivalent to that required by the International Convention
for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974, as amended, and the International
Convention on Load Lines, 1966, for conventional ships engaged on
international voyages.
2 Throughout the development of the Code, it was
recognized that it must be based upon sound design and engineering
principles and experience gained from operating such units; it was
further recognized that design technology of mobile offshore drilling
units is not only a complex technology but is rapidly evolving and
that the Code should not remain static but be re-evaluated and revised
as necessary. To this end the Organization will periodically review
the Code, taking into account both experience and future development.
3 Any existing unit which complies with the provisions
of this Code should be considered eligible for issuance of a certificate
in accordance with this Code.
4 The Code is not intended to prohibit the use
of an existing unit simply because its design, construction and equipment
do not conform to the requirements of this Code. Many existing mobile
offshore drilling units have operated successfully and safely for
extended periods of time and their operating history should be considered
in evaluating their suitability to conduct international operations.
5 The coastal State may permit any unit designed
to a lower standard than that of the Code to engage in operations
having taken account of the local environmental conditions. Any such
unit should, however, comply with safety requirements which in the
opinion of the coastal State are adequate for the intended operation
and ensure the overall safety of the unit and the personnel on board.
6 The Code does not include requirements for the
drilling of subsea wells or the procedures for their control. Such
drilling operations are subject to control by the coastal State.