DNV has published the July 2023 edition of the rules for classification of ships

The requirements for berthing and tug impact are aligned with IACS CSR (Common Structural Rules for Bulk Carriers and Oil tankers) 

Berthing requirements to stiffeners and primary supporting members are taken out 

Particular requirements to Tug Impact areas are taken out of the main class scope and are planned to be offered as a separate class notation

Updated rules for tee and cross joints with a more specific list of details for partial or full penetration welding 

Simplified requirements for welding of primary support members introducing weld factors dependent on actual stress factors

Aligned rules with IMO requirements 

Addressed the toxic aspects of methanol 

Introduced requirements for boiler arrangements fuelled by methanol

Aligned with IMO draft interim guideline for the use of LPG as fuel 

Aligned with IGF code entering into force January 2024, however requirement for double wall piping on deck is not included.

Introduced specific requirements for field of vision for vessels of unconventional design like WAPS and WTIV. 

Opened for replacing line of sight requirements with the use of CCTV systems

Propulsion, power generation and auxiliary systems (Ch.2)

Electrical energy storage - Battery (Sec.1)

Introducing further developed rules on: 

• prevention of water ingress into the EES space considering collision and grounding 
• prevention of gas spreading to other spaces and outside escape and evacuation areas
• prevention of humid/salty air and leakages from cooling systems and ventilation ducts that may cause fault currents 
• alternative designs, new class guideline planned for publication late 2023.

Gas fuelled LPG (Sec.13)

Aligning with IMO and IGF code on the following: 

• machinery space shall be arranged as gas safe machinery space
• accepting self monitoring gas detectors in place of voting principle
• hazardous zone 2 for spaces containing fans serving hazardous area.

• increase in allowable limits for normal operation emissions of ammonia to the atmosphere
• requirements for dispersion analysis to be carried out for emergency scenarios
• increased use of water-based safety systems in relation to ammonia leaks
• reference to alternative design process for matters related to fire safety and life saving
• prescriptive requirements included for enclosed bunkering stations

Cyber security (Sec.21)

• general alignment with IACS UR E26 and E27
• class notation Cyber secure(Essential) is kept as voluntary for new vessels contracted on or after 2024-01-01
• cyber security capabilities are subject to product certification before delivery of systems to shipyard
• clarification of benefits gained by type approved cyber security capabilities
• added systems to default system under consideration (SuC), serving vessel functions anchoring, lighting and pollution prevention
• added secure product development lifecycle requirements to manufacturer.