DNV is the leading classification society for floating production units in Australia. Providing classification and assurance for ongoing projects include the Barossa FPSO, Jansz-Io Semisubmersible Compression, Scarborough FPU, Ichthys Venturer FPSO, and Ichthys Explorer FPU. This proven track record demonstrates our trusted position among operators and regulators.

Comprehensive assurance across validation, verification and classification

• Validation: we provide independent assurance that facilities are able to withstand major accident events. Validation is a mandatory requirement by the National Offshore Petroleum Safety and Environmental Management Authority (NOPSEMA), Australia’s offshore regulator, and forms a key part of the safety case process.
• Verification: we conduct independent reviews across design, procurement, construction and commissioning, ensuring compliance with operator-defined performance standards and codes.
• Classification and statutory services: we offer third-party approval and certification throughout the asset's life cycle, using internationally recognized standards and working closely with both NOPSEMA and AMSA (Australian Maritime Safety Authority).

An integrated approach built on regulatory alignment and local knowledge

DNV’s deep understanding of Australian regulations ensures seamless compliance:

• NOPSEMA: risk-based regime requiring validation and a robust safety case.
• AMSA: rule-based approach for marine operations, with DNV as a recognized organization for statutory certification.

Our integrated approach bridges the requirements of both of these regulators, simplifying project delivery and reducing risk. As a result, you benefit from a single, coordinated team delivering all the required assurance services (classification, validation, verification and statutory certification) across the entire life cycle of a drilling and production unit.

This reduces complexity, streamlines communication, and ensures consistency from design through operation. By integrating class, validation and verification, we can be recognized for work performed under one scope in another (for example, verification activities supporting validation requirements). This avoids duplication, reduces costs and accelerates project timelines.

DNV’s digital innovation and asset integrity

We leverage digital twins, advanced sensor systems, and AI-driven drone inspections to optimize asset integrity management:

• Risk-Based Inspection (RBI): moving from fixed-interval to data-driven, targeted maintenance, reducing OPEX and downtime while maintaining safety
• Digital twins: real-time hull and mooring integrity monitoring, enabling predictive maintenance and smarter decision-making
• Automated drone inspections: enhanced safety, reduced man entry, and improved data quality for structural surveys

At a glance: why partner with DNV for drilling and production units in Australia

• Dedicated support and global reach: Get access to our global survey network and remote survey services, and a dedicated Australian team and 24/7 technical support. We conduct regular workshops, webinars and customized in-house training.
  • Environmental and operational excellence: Our class notations and services support environmental compliance including, notations for battery safety, recyclability and low underwater noise), as well as operational efficiency such as in-water survey readiness, advanced fatigue monitoring and optimized mooring management.
• Global best practices, encompassing:   
  • Early engagement with regulators and flag authorities.
  • Use of common industry codes and standards.
  • Integrated project teams and clear contract strategies.
  • Continuous improvement through digitalization and data analytics.

Let’s scope your project

Whether the goal is to validate a new development, verify upgrades to an existing unit or maintain class throughout operations, DNV provides a single, integrated pathway to demonstrate compliance across Australia’s offshore regime.