Carl Arne Carlsen, DNV’s director of Offshore Classification explains what prompted the decision to establish a global network of Service Centers, providing regional customers with solutions round the clock.
Over the past two years, DNV’s Offshore Classification has established a global network of Service Centers. Located regionally, these centers provide local clients with efficient solutions to technical problems for the DNV classed units in operation.
What prompted you to initiate a global network of Service Centers?
We have seen our MOU (Mobile Offshore Unit) fleet grow by some 20 units in the past two years, with upwards of 60 DNV classed newbuilds scheduled for delivery between now and 2012. Our global share of the newbuilds is significant, with 33 per cent of the drillships, 34 per cent of the semis, and 51 per cent of the FPSOs (Floating Production and Storage Units) currently under construction. So we responded accordingly,” explains Carl Arne Carlsen, director of operations for Offshore Classification, who spearheaded the Service Center initiative.
How are the centers set up?
Today, there are Service Centers for classed units in operation in Aberdeen, Houston, Rio and Singapore in addition to Oslo. The Houston Offshore Service Center, for example manages all aspects of DNV Offshore Class business towards operators and units in the region. This includes taking technical decisions, giving rule interpretations, and providing ‘helpdesk’ support to the local rig owners and clients. In addition, the Houston Offshore Service Center coordinates and manages Flag State interface for all Flag States headquartered in the USA.
What has the response been from customers?
The decision to create a global network of Offshore Class Service Centers has been met with a high degree of appreciation from our clients, who often require technical advice outside of office hours. This is because we can deal with an issue or question from an owner quickly. While decisions are taken locally, colleagues in the network are also able to contribute expertise regardless of their location on the globe.