Achieving IP Code Compliance for a Norwegian offshore vessel

Client Norwegian offshore shipowner

Year 2025

Platform type

 Platform Supply Vessel (PSV) 

Class

SOW

 GAP analysis, compliance strategy, retrofit planning

100%

compliance roadmap

60≤

POB – Minimal modifications for compliance

80≤

POB – Full compliance with major retrofitting

2025

Planned dry dock deadline in December

CLIENT CONTEXT

IP code compliance upgrade

The IMO’s IP Code compliance now requires offshore vessels carrying over 12 special personnel to comply with new safety standards.

A Norwegian shipowner needed to upgrade a PSV to meet these regulations, ensuring operational flexibility and insurance compliance—a challenge without an SPS notation.

GLO Marine conducted a GAP analysis, identifying necessary modifications and providing a clear roadmap for compliance, ensuring a cost-effective, efficient retrofit that met IMO and class requirements.

THE CHALLENGE

Complex compliance retrofit

This project involved detailed regulatory assessment and technical modifications to achieve IP Code compliance. Key challenges included:

Regulatory Transition: The vessel’s existing certification did not automatically ensure compliance.
SPS vs. IP Code Differences: The SPS Code, previously voluntary, offered a simplified compliance route, but the vessel lacked this notation.
Modification Scope: Compliance requirements required complex vessel modifications
Dry Docking Timeline: Modifications had to align with the vessel’s December 2025 dry dock to avoid operational delays.

THE WORK TO BE DONE

Project phases

To ensure IP Code compliance, GLO Marine conducted a detailed GAP analysis, defining a structured approach for achieving regulatory alignment while minimizing operational disruptions.

Feasibility study and GAP analysis
Regulatory compliance strategy development
Retrofit planning and engineering
Implementation and dy dock coordination

PROJECT SOLUTION

Involvement of GLO MARINE throughout the project stages

01.

GAP analysis and compliance pathway

GLO Marine conducted a thorough GAP analysis to compare the vessel’s current status against IP Code requirements, identifying key modifications required for compliance. 

02.

Feasibility study

An advanced feasibility study and troubleshooting assessment helped determine the most cost- and time-effective compliance pathway. The shipowner was presented with two options:

Option 1: Limited Compliance (≤60 POB) – Minimal modifications, lower costs, and a faster approval process.
Option 2: Full Compliance (≤80 POB) – Extensive retrofits including structural fire protection, new LSA, fire safety upgrades, and evacuation reconfiguration.

03.

Retrofit planning and engineering

GLO Marine successfully executed a complete engineering compliance upgrade plan and documentation, covering structural, safety, and operational enhancements.

Structural and stability upgrades – Reinforced fire-resistant bulkheads, improved evacuation routes, and conducted damage stability calculations to meet IP Code standards.
Life-saving equipment installation – Installed new lifeboats and life rafts, and optimized muster stations for efficient evacuation.
Fire protection and safety enhancements – Upgraded fire doors, windows, and suppression systems, and implemented a modernized smoke and fire detection system for improved safety.

These modifications ensured full IP Code compliance, enhancing vessel safety, regulatory approval, and operational readiness.

END OF DELIVERY

The outcomes

Final results

Clear compliance roadmap – Structured compliance strategy outlining necessary modifications.
Strategic retrofit planning – Seamless integration into the 2025 dry dock schedule.
Market readiness – Ensured vessel eligibility for contracts requiring IP Code compliance.
Regulatory preparedness – Proactive planning minimized operational risks and delays.
Complete engineering documentation – We delivered all engineering necessary for vessel compliance with IP Code.

With GLO Marine’s expertise, the shipowner gains a clear, risk-free path to full IMO IP Code compliance, ensuring the vessel meets class and insurance standards without uncertainty. The structured approach minimizes costs, avoiding unnecessary financial strain while keeping the vessel fully operational. By carefully planning and phasing the retrofit, compliance is achieved with minimal downtime, allowing the vessel to continue serving offshore markets efficiently. The solution is designed for long-term viability, reducing risks and ensuring the vessel remains competitive and compliant in an evolving regulatory environment.

Work with us

Contact our retrofit specialist for details