In the world of offshore industries, the safe and reliable transportation of goods and equipment to offshore installations is of paramount importance. This requires stringent standards and guidelines to ensure the integrity and safety of offshore containers. EN 12079, a European standard, was once a recognized authority in this field. However, it has been succeeded by ISO 10855, a global standard that has become the go-to reference for offshore container design, construction, and certification. In this article, we explore the transition from EN 12079 to ISO 10855 and its implications for the offshore industry.
The roles of EN 12079
EN 12079 was a European standard that focused on offshore containers and associated lifting sets. It provided guidelines for the design, construction, and testing of offshore containers, aiming to ensure their safety and reliability. EN 12079 was widely accepted and recognized within Europe, and it played a crucial role in establishing safety standards for offshore container operations.
The Global Reach of ISO 10855
ISO 10855, developed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), is a globally recognized standard that sets the bar for offshore container design, manufacturing, and certification. Unlike EN 12079, ISO 10855 is not limited to a specific region and is designed to be applied internationally. This broader scope has led to its widespread adoption and recognition, making it a global benchmark in the offshore industry.
The Transition from EN 12079 to ISO 10855
The transition from EN 12079 to ISO 10855 is a reflection of the industry’s shift towards global harmonization of standards. ISO standards are often favored for their universal applicability, simplifying international trade, and cooperation in the offshore sector. As a result, EN 12079, while still respected and relevant within Europe, has increasingly been replaced by ISO 10855 on a global scale since July 2018.
Key Differences Between EN 12079 and ISO 10855
Key Differences Between EN 12079 and ISO 10855
1. Global Applicability: ISO 10855 is recognized worldwide and is not confined to any specific region, facilitating global trade and operations in the offshore industry. In contrast, EN 12079 is primarily applicable within Europe.
2. Broader Scope: ISO 10855 encompasses a wider range of offshore containers and equipment, including offshore containers, tanks, and associated lifting sets. EN 12079 primarily focused on offshore containers.
3. Industry Acceptance: ISO 10855 has gained widespread industry acceptance and serves as the primary reference for offshore container operations on a global scale, while EN 12079 is becoming increasingly region-specific.
4. Universal Language: ISO standards use a universal language and numbering system, making them more accessible and understandable across different countries and regions.
Impact on the Offshore Industry
The transition from EN 12079 to ISO 10855 has several implications for the offshore industry:
1. Improved International Cooperation: ISO 10855 promotes greater consistency and collaboration in offshore container operations and safety practices on a global scale.
2. Streamlined Processes: The use of a single global standard simplifies regulatory compliance, container certification, and industry practices for companies operating across different regions.
3. Enhanced Safety: ISO 10855 continues to uphold high safety and reliability standards, ensuring the protection of personnel, the environment, and assets in offshore operations.
Conclusion
The replacement of EN 12079 by ISO 10855 marks a significant shift towards global harmonization and safety standards within the offshore industry. ISO 10855’s global applicability, broader scope, and industry acceptance have made it the dominant standard for offshore containers, streamlining processes and promoting safety on a worldwide scale. As the offshore industry continues to expand and evolve, ISO 10855 remains a critical reference for those involved in the safe and reliable transportation of goods and equipment to offshore installations.
