ISO 10855-1:2018

Overview

ISO 10855-1:2018 - “Offshore containers and associated lifting sets - Part 1: Design, manufacture and marking of offshore containers” specifies transport-related requirements for offshore containers with a maximum gross mass of 25 000 kg. It covers containers intended for repeated use to, from and between offshore installations and ships, focusing on safe design, manufacture, marking, testing and documentation for transport operations. This is Part 1 of the ISO 10855 series and aligns with IMO guidance for offshore handling.

Key Topics and Requirements

• Scope and intent: Transport-related requirements only; intended for offshore service and repeated handling.
• Design and structural strength: Principles for container structure, lifting loads, impact loads and internal forces; minimum material thickness and structural details.
• Lifting provisions: Requirements for all‑point and multi‑point lifting arrangements, pad eyes, ISO-corner fittings and associated strength considerations.
• Additional design elements: Floor construction, doors/hatches, intermediate decks, driving ramps, internal lashing points, forklift pockets and top protection.
• Materials: Guidance on steel (rolled, forged, castings), aluminium and non‑metallic materials, plus material documentation requirements.
• Welding and production: Approved welding practices, welder qualification, weld examination, primary/secondary structure production and production testing.
• Type and production testing: Lifting tests (all‑point/two‑point), vertical impact tests, calibration and test mass requirements, and post‑test inspections.
• Marking and documentation: Safety, identification and information markings; detailed container data plate contents and requirements for a certificate of conformity.
• Corrosion protection and coatings: Design provisions for offshore environments to maintain integrity during repeated sea transfers.

Practical Applications and Who Uses It

ISO 10855-1:2018 is used by:

• Offshore container designers and manufacturers to meet safe design and production practices.
• Offshore operators, drilling contractors and shipping companies for procurement and inspection criteria.
• Classification societies, flag administrations and authorized certification bodies when assessing conformity with transport requirements.
• Inspectors, maintenance teams and safety managers responsible for in‑service examinations and record keeping.

Adoption of ISO 10855-1 supports safer handling, reduced transport risk and clearer documentation for offshore container operations.

Related Standards

• IMO MSC/Circ.860 - guidance for offshore container certification and dynamic lifting/impact considerations.
• SOLAS (Convention) - applicable regulatory framework for marine safety where certification and flag administration requirements apply.
• Other parts of the ISO 10855 series (see ISO catalogue) for complementary requirements.

Keywords: ISO 10855-1:2018, offshore containers, design, manufacture, marking, lifting sets, transport requirements, offshore transport safety.