Main character of class

Purpose

The main character of class notation will be assigned to all vessels.

Benefits

This notation denotes that the vessel’s hull, machinery, installations and equipment meet the steel ship rule requirements in Pt. 1, 2, 3, and 4 for the assignment of main class.

Features

This class notation covers requirements in the following areas:

Hull:

• strength
• weathertight and watertight integrity
• stability and floatability
• tank arrangement

Machinery installations and equipment:

Machinery installations and equipment, including their related auxiliary functions, with respect to strength and performance as applicable to the following main functions:

• power generation
• propulsion
• steering
• structural fire protection
• drainage and bilge pumping
• ballasting
• anchoring

Process

Approval is carried out at the responsible approval centre. The site survey is carried out at the building yard and its suppliers. The periodical survey is carried out on board the vessel.