How to select a Classification Society for your FPSO Project?

When it comes to floating oil and gas projects and FPSO projects in particular (this is where my experience mainly comes from), one of the first Purchase Orders which needs to be placed (not considering the long lead items) is with the Classification Society. Depending on the contract, the client, or the location of operation of the FPSO, the EPCI contractor may or may not have the opportunity to choose the Classification Society.

Nevertheless, selecting a Classification Society does not appear as such a simple choice when looking at the impact it may have on the execution of the project or the design of the asset. Here are some amongst the most important factors to take into account for the successful selection of the right Classification Society for your FPSO Project.