India relaxes measures for self-elevating drilling units certified under the MODU Code

The Directorate General of Shipping, India has issued Addendum No. 02 to DGS Order 20 of 2022 - Certification of Offshore Vessels, Accommodation Barges, etc. While Operating in Indian Exclusive Economic Zone.

The order specifies the compliance requirements for mobile offshore drilling units (propelled/non-propelled) operating in Indian waters.

The units must comply with the MODU Code of 1989 or 2009, depending on the year of construction or modification.

Certification under the SPS code is required for units working in Indian waters, excluding the Master and a crew of 12 persons.

The compliance timeline for upgrading existing MODUs is within 2 years from the date of the order's issuance.

The order also prescribes a specific time frame for the progressive implementation of the requirements.

Relaxation measures are provided for self-elevating drilling units certified under the MODU Code.

The relaxation applies to existing drilling rigs in Indian waters and those participating in tenders until 30th June 2024.

The progressive implementation plan for upgrading MODU units is outlined in Table 1 (see the attached document below), including compliance steps and due dates.

Compliance with various chapters of the MODU Code is required by specific deadlines.

Requests for relaxation will be considered in case of impossibility or major constraints, subject to reported progress and short-term considerations.

This document was issued on 21 June 2023.

For more information, please see the documents below (available only to subscribers):

Addendum No. 02 to DGS Order 20 of 2022: Certification of Offshore Vessels, Accommodation Barges, etc. While Operating in Indian Exclusive Economic Zone