Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO)

Advancing FPSO Innovation and Safety

Floating Production, Storage and Offloading (FPSO) units are essential to offshore energy production, enabling efficient extraction, storage and transfer of hydrocarbons around the world, including in remote and challenging environments. As FPSOs evolve to meet the demands of ultra-deepwater and pre-salt operations, the need for advanced technologies, robust safety practices and sustainable solutions has never been greater.

For over four decades, ABS has supported the growing FPSO sector, delivering class, certification, regulatory support and engineering services to foster safety, reliability and innovation. From new builds to conversions and redeployments, ABS collaborates with operators to address the complexities of FPSO design, construction and operation, helping to advance the industry while supporting environmental and operational goals.

Expertise Across the FPSO Lifecycle

• Class and Certification: ABS applies rigorous criteria to verify the safety and compliance of FPSOs, aligning with industry standards and statutory requirements.
• Regulatory Support: ABS provides guidance to help operators navigate global and local regulatory frameworks, addressing compliance challenges in a dynamic industry.
• Engineering Services: ABS engineers and surveyors bring practical experience and technical expertise to FPSO projects, offering solutions to address complex design and operational challenges.
• Research and Innovation: ABS conducts research to develop solutions that tackle FPSO challenges, enhancing safety and minimizing environmental impact.

Innovative Solutions and Notations for FPSOs

ABS offers programs and advanced notations to support the adoption of innovative technologies and sustainability practices for FPSO units:

• REMOTE-CON Notation: This notation facilitates the integration of remote monitoring and control technologies, enabling operators to oversee critical systems from anywhere in the world. It enhances operational flexibility and reduces the need for on-site personnel.
• SUSTAIN-2 Notation: Reflecting ABS’s commitment to sustainability, this notation helps FPSOs meet stringent environmental performance criteria, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and optimize energy efficiency 
• Modified Tank Entry Program (MTEP): The MTEP provides a structured framework to reduce the frequency of manned tank entries, enhancing safety and operational efficiency. By leveraging remote inspection technologies and risk-based methodologies, the program minimizes personnel exposure to hazardous environments while maintaining compliance with industry standards.

ABS helps FPSO operators stay ahead of industry trends, adopt cutting-edge technologies and achieve their operational and environmental objectives.

Advancing FPSO Technology

• Improving FPSO safety and performance with digital twins, cyber security strategies, and remote technologies
• Providing digital solutions, such as My Digital Fleet, that support business sustainability and improve asset management.

Strengthening FPSO Standards

• We pioneered the industry’s first FPSO guidance documents, and continue to provide the most complete suite of technical guidance for FPSOs
• We continue to maintain strong relationships with coastal state regulatory agencies and flag administrations
• We participate in industry standards committees for life extension of FPSOs

Webinar: FPSO Digital Strategies for Improved Asset Management

In the constant effort to achieve safer, more efficient operations, the FPSO industry is turning to digital science and smart technology to optimize the maintainability and availability of its assets. Learn the digital strategies that reduce risk and drive operational performance for FPSOs.

Webinar: FPSO Digital Strategies for Improved Asset Management

In the constant effort to achieve safer, more efficient operations, the FPSO industry is turning to digital science and smart technology to optimize the maintainability and availability of its assets. Learn the digital strategies that reduce risk and drive operational performance for FPSOs.

Shaping FPSO Standards

As a pioneer in FPSO guidance, ABS continues to lead the development of technical standards and regulatory frameworks:

• Comprehensive Resources: ABS developed the industry’s first FPSO guidance documents and offers a complete suite of technical resources for FPSO design, construction and decommissioning.
• Regulatory Expertise: ABS maintains strong relationships with coastal state regulatory agencies and flag administrations, helping operators navigate complex requirements.
• Industry Leadership: ABS actively participates in industry standards committees, driving advancements in FPSO life extension and operational best practices.

Connect with ABS for FPSO Projects

With a legacy of innovation, a focus on safety and a commitment to sustainability, ABS is a trusted resource for FPSO operators worldwide. Whether developing a new FPSO, converting an existing asset, or extending the life of an aging unit, ABS delivers the expertise, technology and support needed to help maintain safety in today’s dynamic offshore energy landscape.