No.

32

No.
No. Maintenance, Harmonization and Further
32
32 Development of IACS CSR for Double Hull Oil
(Rev.0
(cont)
July Tankers and Bulk Carriers
2009)
(Corr.1 Procedure for handling technical questions
Sept
2009)
regarding the IACS CSRs
(Rev.1
Sept
2011)
LIST OF CONTENTS

No. Title

1 General

2 Definitions

3 Organisation Principle

4 Organisational Structure

5 Operation, roles and responsibilities of Council, the SG/CSR and the Hull
Panel

Annex A CSR Maintenance Procedures

Attachment 1: Work Procedures for Amendments to the IACS Common

Structural Rules

Attachment 2: Work Procedures for Common Interpretations and Q&A of the

IACS Common Structural Rules

Attachment 3: Flow Charts for IACS CSR Maintenance Structure

Attachment 4: Milestones and Interim Dates for Rule Changes

Annex B CSR Harmonization and further development Procedures

Attachment 1: General Action Plan

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 No. 32

No. 1. General
32 1.1 The objective of this Procedural Requirement (PR) is:
(cont)
- to document the IACS organisational structure, and

- to specify work process and procedures pertaining to maintenance, harmonization and

further development of

IACS CSR for Double Hull Oil Tankers and Bulk Carriers.

1.2 This Procedural Requirement consists of a main part and the following annexes:

- Annex A: CSR Maintenance Procedures;

- Annex B: CSR Harmonization and further development Procedures; and

1.3 This procedure applies to IACS members and the associate member. The term
‘Societies’, where used, refers to both Members and Associate member of IACS. For the
rights and privileges of the Associate member, refer to IACS Procedures, Section 10.

2. Definitions

For the purpose of this procedural requirement, unless explicitly provided otherwise, the
following definitions apply.

CI Common Interpretation; explanation to achieve a common understanding of

the requirements of CSRs in line with the intent of the CSRs. CI is not to
result in any change to scantling requirements. For the intent of the CSRs,
refer to the background documents of each set of CSRs.

Clarification Explanation to an unclear expression of the requirements of CSRs

Corrigenda Collection of Editorial Corrections (CSR Amendment Category I. Refer to

Annex A, attachment 1)

CSRs Common Structural Rules for Double Hull Oil Tankers and Common
Structural Rules for Bulk Carriers

CSR KC DB Knowledge Centre Database consisting of Q&A and Common Interpretations.

Sometimes referred to as the KC.

CSR RTB Rule Tracking Database for Common Structural Rules which are categorized
in Categories I and II according to their nature related to rule changes. The
RTB stores Rule amendments of Categories I and II, Implementation Date,
Council Approval Date, etc. (For definitions of CSR Amendment Category I
and II, refer to Annex A, attachment 1)

Error Technical error in the development or technical background of CSRs (CSR

Amendment Category II)

IACS CSR DB A general term used to describe both the CSR RTB and the CSR KC DB

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 No. 32

Initiator Person, organisation outside the IACS, IACS Member society or PT itself who
No. raised questions, comments or requests leading to CSR maintenance
activities.
32
(cont) Master Files A set of files which contains not only the texts of CSRs adopted by IACS but
also includes a record of the history including amendments, corrections and
deletions.

Permsec IACS Permanent Secretariat

PT Project Teams

Q&A Questions and Answers

RC Rule Changes which possibly affect scantling requirements or the technical

background of CSRs (CSR Amendment Category II)

RCP Rule Change Proposal, proposed rule changes which are under review and
not yet adopted.

RCN Rule Change Notice, adopted rule changes, or official notifications of rule
changes, published between major printings of the complete CSRs.

Scantlings ”Scantlings” refers to the dimensions of structural members, such as the

thickness of plating or the section modulus of a stiffener.

Society IACS member or associate member

3. Organisation principle

3.1 IACS Council has the overall responsibility for management of CSR.

3.2 The SG/CSR has the delegated responsibility for management of CSR on behalf of
IACS Council.

3.3 The following groups are under the direction of the SG/CSR:

- Hull Panel:

• for maintenance of the current version of CSR; and

• for carrying out the technical review of final proposals from Project Management
Team for rule changes related to harmonization and further development of CSR.

- Project Management Team (PMT):

• for harmonization and further development of CSR

• for reviewing a full project management package of CSR harmonization including

research projects, time scales and budget estimates.

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 No. 32

4. Organisational structure
No.
The organisational structure for maintenance, harmonization and further Development of
32 IACS CSR for Double Hull Oil Tankers and Bulk Carriers is shown in the following diagram
(cont) (Figure 1).

IACS Council

CSR Secretariat
SG/CSR

Technical
Hull Panel review
Project Management Team
(CSR maintenance) (CSR Harmonization)

CSR Maintenance CSR Harmonization

Project Teams Project Teams
(Including Cross Check Teams) (Including Development Projects)

Figure 1: Organisational structure

Responsibilities and administration of each group relating to CSR are defined within these
procedures.

Other working procedures of the Association, its Council, General Policy Group (GPG), Hull
Panel and Project Teams, and Permanent Secretariat, together with their inter-relations and
responsibilities, are defined in the IACS Charter and IACS Procedures.

5. Operation, roles and responsibilities of Council, the SG/CSR and the Hull Panel

Specific roles and responsibilities of Council, the SG/CSR and the Hull Panel are further
defined in Annex A (CSR maintenance procedures) and Annex B (CSR harmonization and
further development procedures).

5.1 Council

5.1.1 Council is to define responsibilities of the groups and maintain effective oversight of
the IACS policy on CSR.

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 No. 32

5.1.2 Council is also to:

No.
- Establish or revise IACS policy on CSR, with the advice from the SG/CSR;
32
(cont) - Nominate and approve Chairs and representatives of the following groups:

• SG/CSR;

• Hull Panel Chairman;

• Project Management Team (PMT); and

• Project Teams relating to CSR maintenance, harmonization and further

development.

5.2 Small Group on CSR (SG/CSR)

5.2.1 Membership composition

5.2.1.1 The SG/CSR is to consist of 4 members from IACS Council, or representatives

nominated by IACS Council. The Chair of the SG/CSR is to be taken by a member of IACS
Council.

5.2.1.2 Individuals proposed by Council to become members and the Chair of the SG/CSR
are to have had management responsibility within their society’s corporate functions, are to
possess a degree of understanding of the maintenance, harmonization, and further
development of the CSR, and be committed to representing the long-term interests of IACS.

5.2.1.3 Members are to serve for a period of 3 years. Reappointment for a further period of 3
years or some shorter period is allowed.

5.2.2 Terms of reference

The following are terms of reference for the SG/CSR in association with the CSRs for bulk
carriers and oil tankers:

- Support Council by maintaining direct control of CSR maintenance, harmonization and

further development;

- Manage the CSR maintenance, harmonization and further development activities and
outcomes at policy level;

- Review, execute and update, if necessary, ‘General Principles’ of the CSR Rule
Maintenance Procedures, and the CSR Harmonization and further development
Procedures set out in Annex A and Annex B of this PR.

- Maintain close and proactive relationship with regulatory bodies and industry with
participation of technical specialists (from Hull Panel, the PMT and CSR PTs) when
required. The SG/CSR Chairman is to attend the biannual IACS/Industry meetings where
information on the status of the CSR Rule Change process is exchanged.

- Maintain a linkage with the IACS Expert Group on Goal-Based Standards (EG/GBS) on
the ongoing GBS matters at IMO;

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 No. 32

- Assess major challenges facing IACS in relation to CSR reviewing options for their
No. mitigation;
32 - Propose CSR related policy to Council for its subsequent approval;
(cont)
- Review the work plan (after Hull Panel’s technical review) and budget of the PMT and the
CSR maintenance PTs for subsequent submission to Council;

- Consult the Hull Panel and/or the PMT, if necessary, prior to proposing changes to the
IACS policy to Council;

- Review the effectiveness of the implementation of PR 32; and

- Supervise and ensure that each group carries out its designated functions satisfactorily
regarding CSR maintenance, harmonization and further development.

5.2.3 Meetings and method

5.2.3.1 The SG/CSR is to meet at the request of Council, and at such times as the SG/CSR
considers necessary.

5.2.3.2 Permanent Secretariat is to assist the SG/CSR in preparing the information required
for the work of the SG/CSR and arranging the meetings. The costs associated with the work
of the SG/CSR are not to be born by IACS members, but by each member of the SG/CSR.

5.2.3.3 SG/CSR is to try to reach a unanimous decision and should not vote for agreement.
If it cannot reach a unanimous agreement, it will report to Council all Members’ opinions.

5.2.3.4 The Hull Panel Chairman, PMT Managers, and/or Response Manager (Permanent
Secretariat) may be invited to attend and participate in meetings as observers. Likewise, the
SG/CSR may attend the meetings of the Hull Panel and the PMT, when necessary, as an
observer.

5.2.3.5 After each meeting, the Chair of the SG/CSR is to prepare and distribute a brief
summary report to all members of the group, with a copy to Council Members and the
Permanent Secretariat. When the SG/CSR reaches any conclusion on the subjects which
have been specifically requested to study by Council, the SG/CSR is to submit these
conclusions to Council.

5.3 Hull Panel

5.3.1 The terms of reference, membership composition, and work methods for the Hull
Panel, which are set out in IACS Procedures, Section 13.2 ‘Panels’, apply.

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 No. 32

ANNEX A – CSR Maintenance Procedures

No.
32
(cont) 1. Introduction

1.1 This Annex specifies work process and procedures for the maintenance of the IACS
CSRs.

1.2 This Annex covers:

- development and publication of Corrigenda, Rule Change Proposals (RCP), Rule

Change Notice (RCN) and Consolidated texts of CSRs as amended;

- development of Questions and Answers (Q&As), Clarification and Common

Interpretations (CI);

- communication with industry; and

- operation of the CSR Knowledge Centre (KC).

2. Composition

The following groups are to contribute to the CSR maintenance:

• Council

• Council Small Group on CSR (SG/CSR)

• Permanent Secretariat (also referred to as CSR Secretariat)

• Hull Panel

• Project Teams (PTs) for CSR maintenance under Hull Panel

∗ PT/Bulk Carrier CSR Maintenance (hereinafter referred to as ‘CSR PT1’)

∗ PT/Tanker CSR Maintenance (hereinafter referred to as ‘CSR PT2’)

• IACS Quality Secretary

3. Role of Each Group for the CSR maintenance

3.1 Council

• To adopt amendments to the CSR, and to instruct Permanent Secretariat to publish them
as well as to update the master copy of the CSR text.

• To decide on policy matters and controversial issues

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 No. 32

3.2 Council Small Group for CSR maintenance (SG/CSR)

No.
• To undertake overall responsibility of the CSR maintenance program.
32
(cont)
• To advise on CSR related issues as requested by Council including questions that
involve policy matters.

• To track the CSR maintenance process and report to Council on its effectiveness.

3.3 Permanent Secretariat

• To be responsible to Council for the management of the Permanent Secretariat role in

CSR maintenance, including day-to-day operation of the IACS CSR Database.

• To distribute to Project Teams as appropriate comments, requests for interpretation or

amendments received directly from the Industry

• To distribute pure policy inquiries from industry to Council

• To manage the processes associated with providing replies and making amendments
including

∗ monitor the reply schedule for compliance with a reasonable timeframe as

specified in these procedures

∗ provide support to Council, SG/CSR, GPG, Hull Panel and CSR PT1 and CSR
PT2 for arranging meetings and administrative tasks such as coordinating
answers to Industry and preparation of bulky documents.

• To maintain and operate the IACS CSR Databases {Knowledge Centre (CSR KC DB)
and Rule Tracking (CSR RTB)}. User manuals are to be developed and kept up-to-date.

• To maintain master copy of the CSR text and the background documents.

• To publish Corrigenda, Rule Change Notice and consolidated texts of the CSRs.

3.4 Hull Panel

• To be responsible for review of rule amendments.

• To resolve controversial technical issues or issues leading to amendments to the CSRs,

and to refer to SG/CSR and Council issues involving policy matters.

• To review amendments to the CSR proposed by CSR PT1 and/or CSR PT2, or to
develop amendments to the CSR by the Panel itself or other Project Teams, when
requested by the PT(s) or deemed necessary.

• To oversee the CSR maintenance work of the CSR PT1 and PT2 including consistency
of technical replies.

• To facilitate communication to all Societies on technical matters regarding common

interpretations for uniform application of the CSR.

• To be responsible for preparation of technical answers, common interpretations on

technical issues, when these items can not be handled by the PTs.

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 No. 32

3.5 CSR PT1 and PT2

No.
• To prepare Rule Change Proposals (RCP).
32
(cont)
• To respond to comments to RCPs or other general inquires related to the CSRs made by
Societies’ Technical Committees.

• To provide technical expertise and prepare technical answers and interpretations.

• To reply to the Initiator with unanimously agreed technical answers, with a copy to other
PT, Hull Panel and Permsec.

• To refer issues involving policy matters to SG/CSR and Council, consulting with Hull
Panel if PT cannot decide whether the issue should be referred directly to SG/CSR and
Council.

• To refer technical issues of controversial nature, or issues involving rule amendments to

Hull Panel.

3.6 Quality Secretary

• To verify whether IACS Societies comply with this procedural requirement in a coherent
manner under the IACS QSCS (Quality Management System Certification Scheme).

4. Composition of CSR PT1 and CSR PT2

4.1 The composition of the PTs is renewed every 2 years by rotation among the Members
Societies.

4.2 The PT representatives must have expertise on the Rules and their development
background. Therefore continuity in the PT membership must be considered when rotating
the representation among the members as described below.

4.2.1 The CSR PT 1 consists of 3 members from the original JBP participants and a fourth
member from the original JTP participants. The societies representing JBP will rotate every
two years progressively maintaining at least one PT member among the 3 JBP society
members from the previous cycle for continuity. The society representing JTP will change
every two years.

4.2.2 The CSR PT 2 consists of 3 members from the original JTP participants and a fourth
member from the original JBP participants. The societies representing JTP will rotate every
two years progressively maintaining at least one PT member among the 3 JTP society
members from the previous cycle for continuity. The society representing JBP will change
every two years.

4.3 The nomination is to be endorsed by the Hull Panel and the SG/CSR then be
approved by Council.

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 No. 32

5. General Principles of CSR Rule Maintenance (New)

No.
The following principles provide the framework for the governance of the work groups
32 covered by this procedural requirement. These principles are to be used to guide planning
(cont) and implementation of the rule changes, and rule maintenance.

5.1 Principles of Rule Maintenance

5.1.1 Editorial corrections and Common interpretations are not to result in any change to the
required scantlings in relation to original intention of the relevant Rule.

5.1.2 All rule changes are to result in an improvement or enhancement of the standard
defined by the Rules, reflecting a genuine advancement of knowledge, a reflection of
operating experience, new technology, advances in design technology or harmonization with
other CSR or statutory (SOLAS, MARPOL and ILLC) requirements.

5.1.3 All rule changes and common interpretations are to be fully evaluated to determine the
consequences on a range of ship types and sizes as per this Annex.

5.1.4 Common Interpretations are not to be effectively a Rule Change.

5.1.5 Where errors are detected in the published rules, corrections are to be developed and
implemented as quickly as possible but only after these proposed changes have been fully
evaluated and tested to ensure that the errors have been effectively dealt with. Effective
dates are to be indicated for all corrections.

5.1.6 IACS Unified Requirements applicable to CSR vessels only, are to be superseded by
the CSR once the content has been incorporated in the CSR.

5.1.7 IACS Unified Requirements applicable both to CSR vessels as well as non-CSR
vessels, are to be treated according to the CSR Rule Maintenance Procedures as defined in
this PR.

6. Procedures for the CSR Maintenance

The procedures below describe the general principles of CSR maintenance and the use of
the IACS CSR KC Database (CSR KC DB), which will provide automatic notification of new
inquiries and new replies to the PTs, Hull Panel and Permanent Secretariat.

Detailed procedures for Amendments to the CSR, which include Editorial Corrections
(Corrigenda), Corrections to Errors in the CSR and Rule Changes, are given in Attachment 1.
Detailed procedures for Answers to Questions, Clarifications and Common Interpretations on
the CSR are given in Attachment 2.

6.1 Societies will communicate directly with the appropriate PT using the CSR KC.

6.2 Permanent Secretariat (CSR Secretariat) is responsible for data entry into the IACS
CSR KC Database on items sent directly to Permanent Secretariat and items sent directly to
Societies or PTs when direct data entry by Societies or PTs is not practical.

6.3 The PT will prepare a reply to technical questions or comments. The PT will refer
policy issues to SG/CSR and Council, directly or consult with Hull Panel if PT cannot decide
whether the issue should be referred directly to Council.

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 No. 32

6.3.1 Any communication relevant to the reply should use the dialogue facilities within the
No. KC for transparency of the discussion within the PT.
32 6.3.2 When the PT agrees on the reply unanimously, the reply which includes only a simple
(cont) answer, clarification, common interpretation or indication of future rule change is approved in
the CSR KC, and sent to the initiator, and recorded in the KC as far as it does not affect the
scantling requirements. If the reply includes a Common Interpretation or an effective change
to the Rules, the Hull Panel is to be advised and an effective application date is to be
proposed to the Hull Panel.

6.3.3 When the PT replies, the PT will inform the initiating Society whether or not the reply
requires an amendment to the Rules.

6.3.4 When the issue is common to both Tanker and Bulk Carrier CSRs, CSR PT1 and PT2
are to work jointly to prepare a unanimously agreed reply, and the procedures of 6.3.2 and
6.3.3 apply.

6.3.5 Any technical issue to which a unanimous agreement is not obtained is to be raised to
the Hull Panel with detailed report of the discussions within the PT(s).

6.3.6 If any IACS Society disagrees with a reply unanimously agreed by the PT, the issue is
to be raised to the Hull Panel. The Hull Panel may choose to resolve the issue, send it to the
SG/CSR, or refer it back to the PT.

6.3.7 Proposals for Rule Changes (RCP), when these are deemed necessary, are prepared
by the PT and submitted to the Hull Panel for review and agreement. The PT is to propose
whether it is to follow the normal rule change schedule or follow an urgent rule change
schedule. The proposal is also to include an effective application date. If while considering
new RCPs, the PT believes that preparing a proposal will require more resources than the PT
has, the PT is to raise the resource issue to the Hull Panel for resolution.

For procedures for urgent rule changes, refer to Attachment 1, item 3.3.16.

6.4 The Hull Panel is to review and agree on the Rule Change proposals and resolve any
controversial technical issues. The effective date of the proposed Rule Change is to be
agreed.

6.4.1 Hull Panel agreement requires at least 3/4 majority on any CSR related issue.

6.4.2 The Hull Panel agreement on technical issues not requiring a rule change are
provided to the PT and the procedures of 6.3.2 and 6.3.3 apply.

6.4.3 In the case that a controversial issue is not resolved by a 3/4 agreement of the Hull
Panel or if the issue involves policy matters, it is to be raised to SG/CSR and Council with a
summary of the Hull Panel discussions with a copy to Permanent Secretariat.

6.4.4 When the 3/4 majority of Hull Panel members agree to a Rule Change proposal, the
proposal is sent to Societies for their Technical Committee process. The comments from
Societies Technical Committees will be provided to the PT. The PT will revise the Rule
Change proposal if appropriate and send it for the Hull Panel review and agreement. Hull
Panel will prepare a final Rule Change proposal, after considering input from the Societies
Technical Committees, for the review by SG/CSR and for the review and adoption by Council.

6.4.5 Hull Panel members have a read-only access to the PT dialogue and agreements in
the KC system for monitoring the technical consistency of the replies.

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 No. 32

No.
7. Guidelines for technical staff of IACS Society receiving technical questions
32 regarding the IACS CSRs
(cont)
1. The obligations of this Procedural Requirement apply to Classification Societies (CS)
which have embedded the IACS Common Structural Rules for Double Hull Oil Tankers and/or
Bulk Carriers into their classification Rules and which are subject to verification of compliance
with QSCS.

7.12. Each IACS Society CS is responsible for internal procedures that provide the required
framework for consistent implementation of the IACS CSR.

7.23. Each IACS Society CS is to have a single point of contact to deal with the IACS CSR
Maintenance PTs.

7.34. When an IACS Society CS receives questions, comments and or requests regarding
the IACS CSR, the CS Society is to must first access the IACS CSR Knowledge Centre (KC)1
to find out whether the same or similar existing issue and its solution haves already been
documented.

7.34.1 If a solution is found in the CSR KC2, the CSSociety is to may reply to the initiator with
the existing solution.

7.34.2 In case the issue is simple or non-controversial, the CSSociety may reply to the
initiator at the CSSociety’s own responsibility.

7.3.34.2.1 CSs Societies should advise the Permanent Secretariat of the following items for
entry into the CSR KC: on the following items.

• Replies to the initiator made by a CS, each Society if they are useful or substantial for
uniform application of the IACS CSRs.

• Claims received from the industry regarding inconsistent replies.

7.4.3 For the following items, the “Procedures for the CSR Maintenance” IACS Maintenance
Structure detailed in Sections C6 of Volume 4 of the IACS Procedures are above is to be
followed and the CSR KC3 is to be used:, see also Attachment 2.

• Issues involving new interpretation of the Rules

• Questions sent to more than one Society

• Consideration of equivalency

• Question requiring a Rule Change.

8. List of Attachments

1
CS without access to the CSR KC should check the information on CSR on the IACS website.
2
Or on the IACS website for CS without access to the CSR KC.
3
CS without access to the CSR KC can raise the following matters with the IACS Permanent
Secretariat for entry into the CSR KC.

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 No. 32

Attachment 1: Work Procedures for Amendments to the IACS Common Structural Rules
No.
Attachment 2: Work Procedures for Common Interpretations and Q&A of the IACS
32 Common Structural Rules
(cont)
Attachment 3: Flow charts for IACS CSR Maintenance Structure

Attachment 4: Milestones and Interim Dates for Rule Changes

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 No. 32

Attachment 1: Work Procedures for Amendments to the IACS Common

No. Structural Rules
32
(cont)
1. Amendments to the CSRs

The amendments to the Common Structural Rules (CSR amendments) are sorted out to the
following two categories:

Category I Corrigenda; corrections of Category I do not affect the technical background

nor intention of the requirement, they are not controversial, i.e. they correct
an obvious technical error. (If any clarification of CSRs text is needed, refer
to Attachment 2, “Procedures for Common Interpretations and Q&A of the
IACS Common Structural Rules”)

Category II Rules changes; which possibly affect scantling requirements or the

technical background. This includes corrections to errors in the
development or technical background of the requirement: corrections of
such errors may be carried out using an accelerated schedule.

The procedures for amendments to the CSRs are different from the standard IACS
Procedures for adoption of IACS resolutions. For Council vote and decisions, refer to IACS
Procedures, Section 9.2.

2. Definitions

Refer to section 2 of PR32.

3. Procedures of CSR amendments

3.1. Entry Point

3.1.1 IACS Societies will communicate directly with the appropriate PT using the CSR KC.

3.1.2 For each IACS Society a single point of contact for IACS CSR KC is assigned for
filtering and coordinating request.

3.1.3 An initiator within IACS proposing or requesting CSR amendments shall fill the RC
form in the CSR KC DB. An initiator outside the IACS may also make a request via an IACS
Society or Permanent Secretariat. Any requests should also include supporting materials.

3.1.4 The relevant PT(s) is to review the requested issue and to identify it as a Category I or
II item.

3.2 Category I – Corrigenda

3.2.1 The relevant PT is to review the requested editorial corrections. When unanimously
agreed subject to further modifications as necessary, the assigned PT is to propose an
effective date and send the Corrigenda to the Hull Panel for agreement to (a) the
categorization, (b) the effective date, and, (c) the technical content.

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 No. 32

3.2.2 After Hull Panel’s review, the PT is to update the CSR KC DB with its automatic
No. notification to Permsec, the other PT, and the Hull Panel at their dedicated e-mail addresses.
32 3.2. 3 Permsec is to post the corrigenda and advise the Corrigenda and effective date to the
(cont) member societies and industry through the IACS Website. Permsec is to update the Master
Files in accordance with the agreed schedule for each editorial correction.

3.3 Category II – Rule changes

3.3.1 The assigned PT(s) is to review the proposal or request for CSR amendments
identified as Category II (RC) and to decide whether or not it should proceed further. When
not unanimously agreed, the issue is to be raised to the Hull Panel.

3.3.2 If the PT(s) unanimously agrees that the proposal or request for RC is not accepted,
the decision is to be advised to the Hull Panel with a draft reply to the initiator, describing the
reason why the proposal or request was not accepted by the PT(s), with a copy to Permsec.
Unless the Hull Panel comments within 5 working days, the PT is to reply to the initiating
Society.

3.3.3 When the PT(s) unanimously agrees to proceed with the proposal or request for RC,
the PT(s) is to review the proposed RC or to draft a RC text according to the request.

3.3.4 The impact of the proposed RC on the required scantlings is to be estimated on three
(3) reference ships of varying size, if considered appropriate. In addition the impact on typical
designs (e.g. arrangements or steel weight) is to be estimated, if considered appropriate.

3.3.5 The PT(s) is to submit the draft Rule Change Proposal (RCP) with its technical
background and report on impacts on required scantlings or design to the Hull Panel for
agreement. An effective date is to be proposed. A copy is also to be sent to Permsec for
record or storage in CSR RTB.

3.3.6 The Hull Panel is to review the RCP within three weeks. If Hull Panel considers that
the technical justification is not sufficient, Hull Panel may request the PT(s) to submit further
supporting materials on the proposal.

3.3.7 If Hull Panel decides that the proposal is not appropriate from the technical point of
view, Hull Panel may reject the proposal. The rejected proposal will be sent back to the PT(s)
with a copy to Permsec for filing to CSR RTB. The initiator should be notified of the Hull
Panel’s decision with the reason of rejection by Permsec.

3.3.8 When Hull Panel agrees by at least 3/4 majority, the RCP, including full
documentation on the reason for the change, technical background, any implications on
scantlings, and effective date is to be sent to IACS Societies for their Technical Committee
process. A brief summary of dissenting Member(s) and reasons why the agreement was not
unanimous are to be included in the technical background documents for Societies’ internal
use.

3.3.9 At the same time that a RCP is sent to the Societies Technical Committees by each
Member, the IACS Permanent Secretariat is to inform the industry associations that the RCP
is sent to the Societies Technical Committees for information.

3.3.10 Comments from Members’ Technical Committees will be provided to the PT. The PT
will revise the RCP if appropriate and send it to the Hull Panel for review and agreement.

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 No. 32

3.3.11 When Hull Panel agrees to the second round of the RCP by at least ¾ majority, the
No. second RCP and the technical background together with replies to the comments are to be
sent back to IACS members for their Technical Committees’ final review.
32
(cont) 3.3.12 Taking into consideration comments on the second RCP, if any, Hull Panel is to
complete the final RCP, using a 3/4 majority if necessary for any final decisions. Hull Panel
Chairman shall strive for a unanimous conclusion on the final RCP and shall avoid voting
wherever possible. However, in case a unanimous conclusion within the Panel is unlikely due
to repeated discussions, the Chair may finalize the issue on a three-quarter majority basis.
The final RCP is to be forwarded to SG/CSR for review and Council for adoption, together
with identification of and explanation from dissenting Member(s) if applicable.

3.3.13 In case the final RCP is not agreed in the Hull Panel by a three-quarter majority, it will
be sent back to the relevant PT with the dissenting Member’s(s’) comments for further update
of the RCP at the next round of rule changes or its closure.

3.3.14 The Rule Changes adopted by the Council will be published once a year in early
January with entry into force on the following 1st of July. Additional milestones and
associated interim dates for the normal rule change schedule are shown in Attachment 4 and
a general work flow for Rule Changes is illustrated in Figure 3 of Attachment 3.

3.3.15 Permsec is to update Master File and CSR RTB when adopted by Council.

3.3.16 Council may decide on urgent Rule Changes outside of the normal rule change
schedule.

• Category I Editorial Corrections may be published anytime under the direction of

Council as “Corrigenda” when deemed necessary.

• Category II Rule Changes may be published anytime under the direction of Council as
a “Rule Change Notice” (RCN) when deemed necessary, provided procedures in 3.3
above are followed to the extent possible.

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No. Attachment 2: Work Procedures for Common Interpretations and Q&A of the
32 IACS Common Structural Rules
(cont)

1. Common Interpretations and Q&A

In order to implement the IACS Common Structural Rules (CSRs) in a consistent manner,
Common Interpretation (CI) of the Rules requirements, Clarification and Answers to
Questions should be developed in accordance with the procedures as specified in this
document.

These procedures as specified in paragraph 3 are applicable to CIs and the procedures in
paragraph 4 are applicable to Clarifications and Q&As.

2. Definitions

Refer to section 2 of PR 32.

3. Procedures for CI

3.1 Initiation of CI

3.1.1 IACS Societies will communicate directly with the appropriate PT using the CSR KC.

3.1.2 For each IACS Society a single point of contact for IACS CSR KC is assigned for
filtering and coordinating requests.

3.1.3 An initiator proposing or requesting a CI shall fill in the CI form in the CSR KC. Any
supporting material should be included. An initiator outside the IACS may also post a request
via an IACS Society or Permanent Secretariat.

3.2 Review or development of CI

3.2.1 The relevant PT(s) is to review the proposed CI or develop a CI. PT may agree on the
proposed CI or revise it.

3.2.2 When not unanimously agreed, the technical issue is to be raised to the Hull Panel.
Policy issues should be raised to SG/CSR and Council.

3.2.3 If the PT(s) unanimously agree on CI, the PT approves the CI in the IACS CSR KC
and replies to the initiating Society.

3.2.4 The proposed CI is not to result in any change to the scantling requirements.

3.2.5 PT is to develop a Technical Background (TB) document for the proposed CI. If the
proposed CI is effectively a Rules Change, which does not result in any change to the
scantling requirements, the PT is to submit it to the Hull Panel for review and agreement prior
to entry into IACS CSR KC, together with its technical background and effective date. If the
proposed CI is considered to result in changes to the scantling requirements, it is to be

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 No. 32

treated as a rule change. When the proposed CI and its TB are agreed by the PT, the PT is to
No. invite the Hull Panel to agree on effective implementation date.
32 After the Hull Panel has agreed on an effective implementation date, the CI is then to be
(cont) registered to the KC and posted on the IACS web site.

3.2.6 If the proposed CI is considered as useful for clarification of a CSR text in the
background document, the PT(s) is to propose modifications to the CSR background
document for review and agreement by Hull Panel.

3.2.7 The whole process is, in general, to be completed within ten (10) working days.

3.2.8 Permsec should ensure that all records are kept in order.

4. Procedure for Q&A from/to Members

4.1 Initiation of Q&A

4.1.1 IACS Societies will communicate directly with the appropriate PT using the CSR KC.

4.1.2 For each IACS Society a single point of contact for IACS CSR KC is assigned for
filtering and coordinating requests.

4.1.3 An initiator should fill in the Q&A form in CSR KC DB. An initiator outside IACS may
also post a request via an IACS Society.

4.2 Completion of Q&A

4.2.1 The relevant PT(s) is to prepare an answer to the question. When not unanimously
agreed on, the PT(s) is to raise the question with a draft answer, if available, to the Hull Panel
with a copy to Permsec. Policy issues should be raised to Council.

4.2.2 When unanimously agreed to the answer, the PT(s) is to update the CSR KC DB with
an automatic notification by the KC DB software to Permsec, the other PT and the Hull Panel,
and send the reply to the initiator.

4.2.3 The answer may include a simple answer, Clarification or CI, which is not to result in
any change to the Rules, or an indication of future rule change. If the reply includes a
Common Interpretation or an effective change to the Rules, which is not to result in any
change to the scantling requirements, the Hull Panel is to be advised and an effective
application date is to be proposed to the Hull Panel.

4.2.4 The whole process is, in general, to be completed within ten (10) working days.

4.2.5 Permsec should ensure that all records are kept in order.

4.2.6 A general work flow for Q&A from/to IACS Societies which includes a resulting CI is
shown in Attachment 3.

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5. Procedure for Q&A from/to Industry

No.
5.1 Initiation of Q&A from Industry
32
(cont) 5.1.1 Industry may communicate with IACS Permanent Secretary to initiate Q&A.

5.1.2 Permsec is to circulate the received questions/requests to Council or to the relevant

PT(s) taking into account its policy or technical nature.

5.2 Completion of Q&A

5.2.1 In case of a policy issue, Council with assistance of SG/CSR, as needed, is to prepare
a reply to the policy issue.

5.2.2 When the draft reply to the question of a policy nature is unanimously agreed by
Council, Permsec is to send the reply to Industry.

5.2.3 In case of a technical issue, the relevant PT(s) is to prepare an answer to the question.
When not unanimously agreed on, the PT(s) is to raise the question with a draft answer, if
available, to the Hull Panel with a copy to Permsec.

5.2.4 When the draft answer to the question of a technical nature is unanimously agreed by
the PT(s), the PT(s) is to update the CSR KC DB with an automatic notification by the KC DB
software to Permsec, the other PT and the Hull Panel at their dedicated e-mail addresses,
and Permsec is to send the reply to Industry.

5.2.5 The answer may include a simple answer, Clarification or CI, which is not to result in
any change to the Rules, or an indication of future rule change. If the reply includes a
Common Interpretation or an effective change to the Rules, which does not result in any
change to the scantling requirements, the Hull Panel is to be advised and an effective
application date is to be proposed to the Hull Panel.

5.2.6 The whole process is, in general, to be completed within ten (10) working days.

5.2.7 Permsec should ensure that all records are kept in order.

5.2.8 A general work flow for Q&A from/to Industry which includes a resulting CI is shown in
Attachment 4.

6. Public information

Permsec should publish the approved simple Answers to Questions, Clarifications and CIs,
upon confirmation by the PT Manager, on the IACS CSR Website.

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 No. 32

7. Periodical Review of Q&A and CI

No.
Permanent Secretariat should produce a summary report on Q&As and CIs twice a year and
32 send it to PTs with a copy to the Hull Panel Chairman.
(cont)
The PT(s) should carry out periodical review, at least twice a year, of the Q&A and CIs to
determine the need for rule changes.

- The above review results should be submitted to Hull Panel for review with a copy to
Permsec.

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 No. 32

Attachment 3: Flow Charts for IACS CSR Maintenance Structure

No.
32
(cont)

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

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 No. 32

Attachment 4: Milestones and Interim Dates for Rule Changes

No.
32
(cont)

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 No. 32

ANNEX B – CSR Harmonization and further development Procedures

No.
32
(cont) 1. Introduction

1.1 This Annex specifies IACS procedural requirements for CSR harmonization and
further development.

1.2 This Annex covers:

- procedural information to support effective coordination and communication with

relevant bodies regarding new and amended organisational outlines and procedures,
and to make official and transparent these outlines and procedures;

- general principles of CSR harmonization for CSR work groups to follow; and

- a feedback mechanism by which the procedural management system can be further

improved.

2. Composition

The following groups are to contribute to the CSR Rule harmonization and further
development:

• Council;

• Council Small Group on CSR maintenance (SG/CSR);

• Permanent Secretariat (also referred to as CSR Secretariat);

• Hull Panel;

• Project Management Team (PMT); and

• Project Teams (PT) established under the PMT.

3. Role of Each Group for the harmonization and further development of CSR

3.1 Council

• To approve General Action Plan

• To nominate and approve PMT and PT membership

• To decide on policy matters and controversial issues

3.2 SG/CSR

• To undertake overall responsibility of the CSR harmonization and further development

program

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 No. 32

• To advise Council on policy issues

No.
32 • To track the CSR harmonization and further development process and report to Council
on its progress and effectiveness
(cont)
3.3 Permanent Secretariat

• To provide administrative assistance to the groups

• To maintain records on the CSR harmonization and further development program

• To facilitate communication between the groups

• To maintain communication with industry

3.4 Hull Panel

• To be responsible of technical review

• To resolve controversial technical issues

• To provide technical input to PMT and SG/CSR when requested

3.5 PMT

• To manage the CSR harmonization and further development program

• To report to the SG/CSR on the progress, prospects and outcome of PTs

• To develop and keep up-to-date the General Action Plan on CSR harmonization and
further development.

3.6 Project Teams

• To carry out tasks assigned by the PMT

• To report on the progress and outcome of tasks to PMT

Note: Roles of the groups are described in terms of their interaction with the Project
Management Team (PMT) in this Annex.

4. General Principles of CSR Rule harmonization and further development

The following principles provide the framework for the governance of the work groups
covered by this procedural requirement. These principles are to be used to guide planning
and implementation of the harmonization and further development of the two sets of CSRs.

4.1 The objective is to harmonize key technical areas (such as wave loads, FEA, buckling
and fatigue) between the two sets of rules.

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 No. 32

4.2 All elements that are already common or can be developed into a common position in
No. the current version of CSR are to be taken into a General Volume which is referred to from
specific volumes of CSR for Double Hull Oil Tankers and CSR for Bulk Carriers.
32
(cont) This General Volume will be expanded as common IACS methodologies are developed to
cover other aspects which would apply to both bulk carriers and oil tankers. These would
again be referred to from the CSR for Double Hull Oil Tankers and CSR for Bulk Carriers.

4.3 Before the Rule changes from the harmonization process are introduced into the
review process, the ramifications are to be determined and the impact is to be fully calibrated
and industry is to be consulted.

5. Project Management Team (PMT)

5.1 Membership composition

5.1.1 The Project Management Team (PMT) has two representatives. One CSR Oil Tankers
and CSR Bulk Carriers expert are to be nominated. The nominations are to be approved by
Council.

5.1.2 Managers are to be qualified professionals who have sufficient knowledge and
experience in the development and maintenance of the CSRs.

5.1.3 Project Managers are to serve for a period of 3 years. Reappointment for a further
period of 3 years or some shorter period is allowed.

5.1.4 Project Management of the CSR harmonization is to be considered their primary duty.

5.1.5 Administrative support for the PMT is to be provided by the Permanent Secretariat
(CSR Secretariat).

5.2 Terms of Reference (Functions)

5.2.1 The Project Management Team is to:

- Manage progress, prospects and outcome of PTs dealing with CSR harmonization
and further development;

- identify the need to establish Project Teams, and propose PTs to SG/CSR for review
followed by Council’s approval;

- develop and update a General Action Plan;

- report to the SG/CSR on the progress, prospects and outcome of PTs; and

- communicate with the Hull Panel Chairman in the cases listed in 3.4 and 5.7.

5.2.2 In addition to the general project management, the PMT is also to perform specific
functions, including:

- preparing technical responses to external organizations at the request of SG/CSR;

- providing advice and oversight on the nomination and performance of the project team
managers and members.

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 No. 32

5.2.3 Outcome of the Project Teams established and controlled by the PMT is subject to
No. technical review/agreement by the Hull Panel prior to submission to SG/CSR for review and
subsequently to Council for approval.
32
(cont) 5.2.4 The PMT is to report to the SG/CSR as shown in Figure 1.

Figure 1: PMT Reports

5.3 Work methods

5.3.1 The PMT proposes to establish / disband Project Teams. For this purpose, the PMT is
to develop a complete project package including background, objectives, work schedule,
work specification items, budget estimates, PT membership together with detailed action plan.

The Project Package with Detailed Action Plan is to be submitted first to the Hull Panel for
review, and then to the SG/CSR for review. SG/CSR is to submit them to Council for approval.

5.3.2 The PMT is to meet at such times as the PMT Managers consider necessary, and at
the request of the SG/CSR.

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 No. 32

5.3.3 Permanent Secretariat is to assist the PMT in preparing the information required for
No. the work of the PMT and arranging the meetings.
32 5.4 Decision making
(cont)
The two managers are to consult each other and strive for mutual agreement in making
decisions. In case where no agreement is found, the two managers are to bring the matter to
the attention of the SG/CSR. The managers may consult the Hull Panel Chairman for advice
or information from the Hull Panel, when necessary.

5.5 Expenses and budgeting

The expenses associated with the PMT are to be borne by Members and Associate in
accordance with the cost sharing principles as stipulated in IACS Procedures, Annex 1.

For the PMT’s budgeting, cost monitoring and accounting, Annex 1 of IACS Procedures is to
be read, replacing ‘GPG’ with ‘Council’ and ‘Panel Chairs’ with ‘team managers’. The PMT’s
budget is to be approved by Council after SG/CSR’s review.

5.6 Meetings and method of work

The PMT may discuss issues at meetings, by correspondence or by on-line conference,

whichever is convenient for the PMT Managers. The PMT is to hold at least four scheduled
meetings a year at which it is to review and discuss reports by the Project Team managers on
the performance of the PTs, their project plans and prospects, outcome of the projects, as
well as immediate technical and managerial issues. The CSR Secretariat is to provide the
PMT with the required support.

The Hull Panel Chairman and the CSR Secretariat may attend the PMT meeting(s) at the
request of the PMT.

The Project Management Team will provide the SG/CSR with a summary of their meetings.

5.7 Working relationship with the Hull Panel

The PMT is to report directly to the SG/CSR. However, it is to consult the Hull Panel on
matters for which a technical review by representatives from all IACS Societies is sought.
These matters include the Project Package, Detailed Action Plan and outcome of the Project
Teams that have been established under the purview of the PMT.

6. Project Teams (PT) under PMT

6.1 The Project Teams under PMT are established by IACS Council on the initiative of the
PMT following the review by the SG/CSR.

6.2 When establishing Project Teams, team managers and members are nominated by
appropriate groups such as Council, Hull Panel or the PMT.

6.3 The Project Teams are managed by the PMT following IACS procedures, Annex 3
“Establishment and Administration of Project Teams” where the PMT is in the role of “the
Panel” referred to in Annex 3.

6.4 The Project Teams report regularly to the PMT on their activity.

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 No. 32

No.
7. CSR Harmonization and Further Development General Action Plan
32
(cont) This document, which is to be developed by the PMT, will be updated as necessary
consistent with progress of the tasks. See Attachment 1.

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 No. 32

Attachment 1: General Action Plan

No.
32
(cont)

Note: 1. Attached to PR 32 Annex B in a separate document.

2. This page is therefore intentionally left blank.

End of
Document

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