Hamburg 2008-07-23

Version 1.2

Leaflet for damage stability calculation according to SOLAS 2009

Table of contents:
1 Background .......................................................................................................................... 2
2 Intention of this paper ......................................................................................................... 2
3 Formal application ............................................................................................................... 2
3.1 Application by early implementation ................................................................................................ 2
4 New and amended regulations ........................................................................................... 2
4.1 All type of vessels (dry cargo and passenger vessels).................................................................... 3
4.1.1 Initial draughts ...................................................................................................................... 3
4.1.2 Attained Index for each draught............................................................................................ 3
4.1.3 Trim ...................................................................................................................................... 3
4.1.4 Permeability of cargo spaces................................................................................................ 4
4.1.5 Double bottom ...................................................................................................................... 4
4.1.6 Wells in double bottom ......................................................................................................... 6
4.1.7 Transverse penetration......................................................................................................... 6
4.1.8 Cross flooding....................................................................................................................... 6
4.1.9 Opening points ..................................................................................................................... 7
4.2 Passenger vessels .......................................................................................................................... 7
4.2.1 Probability concept ............................................................................................................... 7
4.2.2 Minor damage concept ......................................................................................................... 7
4.2.3 Escape routes and hatches .................................................................................................. 8
4.2.4 External heeling moments .................................................................................................... 8
4.2.5 Intermediate stages of flooding............................................................................................. 8
5 Documents to be submitted for examination and approval to Class .............................. 9
6 On-board documentation .................................................................................................... 9
7 Contact Persons at Germanischer Lloyd......................................................................... 10

Version date description

V1.0 2008-01-30 Initial version
V1.2 2008-07-23 text update referring to MSC.Res.216(82) / previously referrring to MSC.Res.194(80)
update on Reg. 9, base conditions for bottom damage scenarios / wells and sump tanks in DB
update on Reg. 7-2, consideration of escape routes

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1 Background

In its 80th session, IMO has revised the SOLAS regulations referring to damage stability calculation. In
the so called harmonization of damage stability the concept of a probability assessment will be applied
for dry cargo vessels and also for passenger vessels. The philosophy behind the probabilistic concept is
that two different ships with the same attained index are of equal safety and, therefore, there is no need
for special treatment of specific parts of the ship, even if they are able to survive different damages.
The latest edition of regulations are included in MSC.Res.216(82) [afterwards referred to as SOLAS
2009], in addition “Explanatory Notes to the SOLAS Chap. II-1 Subdivision and Damage Stability
Regulations” have been finalised which will be issued as a MSC Resolution in November. The technical
content is already available in IMO Paper SLF51/WP.1.

2 Intention of this paper

This paper is intended to highlight new and amended regulations in SOLAS 2009 in comparison to the
present SOLAS 2004. It is the intention to serve customers when designing vessels based on the new
regulations, respectively when preparing the required documentation and calculations.
This leaflet does not substitute the careful and detailed study of the relevant regulations and continuing
this paper is not intended to cover all aspects of the new regulations.

3 Formal application
Related regulation: MSC.Res.216(82), Reg. 1
Explanatory Notes: ---

The new SOLAS 2009 regulations will apply for dry cargo ships and passenger vessels with a keel
laying date on or after 2009-01-01 respectively for vessels which undergo a major conversion on or after
that date.

3.1 Application by early implementation

For a series of vessels which are built around that date, it might happen that different regulations apply
to different vessels of the series (i.e. SOLAS 2004 for vessels with a keel laying date before 2009, and
SOLAS 2009 for vessels with a keel laying date afterwards). In case it is the intention of the shipyard or
owner to apply the new regulations for all vessels within the series (“early implementation”), a formal
acceptance from the Flag State Administration would be required.
In such a case GL offers support to obtain a respective allowance from the responsible Administration.

4 New and amended regulations

Several new, respectively amended regulations have been developed in comparison to the present
SOLAS 2004 requirements. For instance the formulas within SOLAS 2009 for the subdivision indices A
and R and further the probability values p, r, v and survivability factor s are based on latest evaluation of

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statistical data and stability assessments have been adjusted accordingly. Therefore such formulas
differ from the phrases contained in SOLAS 2004.
In general a correct application of such new regulations is crucial for designers to obtain best possible
results in short time and to facilitate and speed up the certification process.

4.1 All type of vessels (dry cargo and passenger vessels)

4.1.1 Initial draughts
Related regulation: MSC.Res.216(82), Reg. 2 and 7
Explanatory Notes: additional text available

Three (3) initial draughts shall be considered as a basis for the damage stability calculation (in
SOLAS 2004 two draughts are considered). The definition of deepest subdivision draught dS, partial
subdivision draught dP and light service draught dL is included in Reg. 2.
It is noted that the light service draught represents in general a ballast arrival condition for cargo ships,
respectively arrival condition with passengers for passenger ships. By this assumption the light service
draught is commonly higher than the counterpart in SOLAS 2004 (light ship draught). As a consequence
the partial draught for SOLAS 2009 is commonly higher than the partial draught for SOLAS 2004.

4.1.2 Attained Index for each draught

Related regulation: MSC.Res.216(82), Reg. 6
Explanatory Notes: additional text available

For each of the three considered draughts the calculated partial indices AS, AP and AL shall meet a
percentage of the total attained index A. For dry cargo vessels that percentage shall be not less than
0.5R, for passenger vessel 0.9R.
This requirement is intended to ensure a level of safety for the entire range of operational draughts.

4.1.3 Trim
Related regulation: MSC.Res.216(82), Reg. 5-1.3, 7.2
Explanatory Notes: additional text available

The damage stability calculation shall be based on a deepest subdivision and partial subdivision
draught with level trim and a light service draught with a trim level corresponding to that condition. The
validity of such damage stability calculation is restricted to an operational trim of ±0.5% of the ship’s
length LS.
If in any service condition greater trim levels occur, additional damage stability calculations with different
trim levels shall be performed. The intervals of trim values should not exceed 1% of LS. Results of such
calculation shall be compiled in form of a GM envelop curve covering all relevant trim levels.
In the Stability Booklet respective remarks regarding restrictions in operational trim are to be included.

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4.1.4 Permeability of cargo spaces
Related regulation: MSC.Res.216(82), Reg. 7-3
Explanatory Notes: additional text available

Variable permeabilities for cargo spaces are newly implemented (in SOLAS 2004 fixed permeabilities
are stipulated). The permeabilities depend on the considered draught (deepest subdivision / partial
subdivision / light service) and on the type of cargo space (dry cargo / container / ro-ro / liquid cargo). In
addition in the Explanatory Notes permeabilities for timber and wood cargo are included.
permeability
space
subdivison draft partial draft light service draft
Dry cargo spaces 0,70 0,80 0,95
Container spaces 0,70 0,80 0,95
Ro-ro spaces 0,90 0,90 0,95
Cargo liquids 0,70 0,80 0,95
Timber cargo in holds 0,35 0,70 0,95

4.1.5 Double bottom

Related regulation: MSC.Res.216(82), Reg. 9
Explanatory Notes: additional text available

SOLAS 2009 specifies in detail requirements for fitting a double bottom. In case parts of a double
bottom are not arranged, an equivalent level of safety is to be proved by a separate set of calculation.
Generally a double bottom is to be fitted extending from the collision bulkhead to the afterpeak bulkhead
which shall be continued out to the ship’s sides.
Under certain circumstances a double bottom needs not to be fitted respectively an unusual
arrangement would be acceptable in accordance with Reg. 9.1, Reg. 9.4 or Reg. 9.5. This includes if it
is not practicable or not compatible with the design and proper working of the ship or in way of
watertight tanks, including dry tanks of moderate size, provided the safety of the ship is not impaired in
the event of bottom or side damage. Furthermore, according to the Explanatory Notes it is considered
an unusual bottom arrangement, if the inner bottom reaches the side shell above the partial draught dP.
In such a case, if a double bottom is not fitted or an unusual arrangement is applicable, a sufficient level
of safety is to be shown by a separate calculation for bottom damage scenarios according to Reg. 9.8.
As base conditions for the bottom damage scenarios, the three initial cases (dS, dP, dL ) from the damage
stability calculation shall be used.
In figure 1 examples for missing / unusual double bottom arrangements are shown.

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 Partial Subdivision Draught

B/20
Keel Line

Figure 1

It is to be noted that this regulation is a deterministic element (distinctive damage extensions in

longitudinal, transverse and vertical direction) within the probabilistic concept of SOLAS 2009. For the
calculations the position of the damages should be assumed anywhere at that parts of the vessel which
are not fitted with a double bottom or fitted with an unusual bottom arrangement, however, including
bordering parts within the reach of the damage (see figure 2).

Area where no double bottom is fitted Possible damage locations

Figure 2
Proof of compliance with Reg. 9.8 can be regarded of equivalent safety where a double bottom does not
comply with the requirements of this regulation.

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4.1.6 Wells in double bottom
Related regulation: MSC.Res.216(82), Reg. 9.3
Explanatory Notes: ---

SOLAS 2009 specifies that small wells shall not extend downward further than necessary. Wells are
permitted if the protection given by a regular double bottom is still achieved. Other wells (e.g. lubricating
oil tanks under main engines) shall in no case extend downward further than 500mm above baseline.
Engine Room Cargo
Hold
Small wells

ME-LO-Sump Tank

min. 500mm
Figure 3

4.1.7 Transverse penetration

Related regulation: MSC.Res.216(82), Reg. 7.5 and 7-1
Explanatory Notes: additional text available

A maximum transverse penetration depth of half of the breadth of the vessel shall be assumed. As a
consequence, in the forward and aft ends of the ship where the sectional breadth is less than the ship’s
breadth B the transverse damage penetration can extend beyond the centreline bulkhead.
The methodology of transverse damage penetration is based on a normalized damage statistics with
the full ship’s breadth B rather with the actual breadth along the ship’s length.
For calculation of the probability values p, the maximum penetration b is limited to B/2 measured
inboard from the ship’s side, at right angle to the centreline at the level of the deepest subdivision
draught.

4.1.8 Cross flooding

Related regulation: MSC.Res.216(82), Reg.7-2.2 and 7-2.5
Explanatory Notes ---

Cross-flooding devices, which are intended to correct large heeling angles, shall be self-acting (as far as
practicable). In case where controls to equalization devices are provided they shall be operable from
above the bulkhead deck. Respective information regarding the use of such cross-flooding devices shall
be included in the on-board documentation for the master (Damage Control Plan, Damage Control
Booklet and Stability Booklet).
The time for equalization by cross-flooding shall not exceed 10 min (in SOLAS 2004 for passenger
vessels 15 min). The calculation of the cross-flooding time shall be performed according to
IMO.Res.A.266(VIII), whereby this regulation is presently under revision by IMO.

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4.1.9 Opening points
Related regulation: ---
Explanatory Notes referring to Reg. 7-2 and 15-1

The correct consideration of position and level of tightness of opening points is crucial for the calculation
of damage stability. In the Explanatory Notes it is stated that openings are the most critical factor to
prevent an inaccurate A index; therefore all opening points need to be considered. This includes
weathertight and unprotected openings such as airpipes, vents, hatches, doors etc.
With respect to the level of tightness, the Explanatory Notes further clarify that airpipes should be
regarded as weathertight (not watertight).

4.2 Passenger vessels

4.2.1 Probability concept
For passenger vessels the concept of a probabilistic damage stability calculation is implemented on a
mandatory basis (previously in SOLAS 2004 a deterministic concept was considered, alternatively a
probabilistic approach according to IMO.Res.A.265 could be applied). This could have major influence
on the design of such ships as the principles for assessing the level of safety by means of a damage
stability calculation are fundamentally changed.

4.2.2 Minor damage concept

Related regulation: MSC.Res.216(82), Reg. 8
Explanatory Notes: additional text available

For passenger vessels intended to carry 36 or more persons additional calculations for minor damage
scenarios are to be performed. The concept is based on a deterministic approach with distinctive
damage extensions in longitudinal, transverse and vertical direction depended on the main data of the
vessel and number of persons on board (see table 1). For all considered damage scenarios at least a
survivability factor s of not less than 0.9 is to be achieved (damages on both sides of the vessel, incl.
possible cross-flooding, incl. moments acc. to Reg. 7-2.4, lesser extent acc. to Reg. 7.6).

NPers ldam bdam vdam position of damage

36 max (0.015Ls, 3m) max (0.05B, 0.75m) at any position between transverse
36 < x < 400 linerar interpolation ds + 12.5m watertight bulkheads
≥ 400 max (0.03Ls, 3m) max (0.1B, 0.75m) at any position along the side shell
Table 1

For passenger vessels intended to carry 400 or more persons an additional damage scenario involving
all compartments within 0.08L measured from the forward perpendicular is to be calculated, whereby a
survivability factor of s=1 is to be achieved. The calculation shall be performed for all three basic
draughts (deepest subdivision draught, partial subdivision draught and light service draught).

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4.2.3 Escape routes and hatches
Related regulation: MSC.Res.216(82), Reg. 7-2.5.2.2, Reg. 7-2.5.3.1
Explanatory Notes: additional text available

These paragraphs apply to horizontal evacuation vertical escape routes on the bulkhead deck.
Special attention is to be paid to possible immersion of escape routes when calculating the survivability
factor s (in SOLAS 2004 a margin line was considered). In case of immersion of escape routes the s-
factor is to be taken equals zero.
Both types, horizontal and vertical evacuation routs, can be treated the same way with the exemption
that the immersion of horizontal evacuation routs is only relevant in the final stage of flooding while
vertical escape riutes may not become immersed in any intermediate stage or in the final stage.
The definition of the term “bulkhead deck” acc. to Reg. 2.19 is as follows:
„Bulkhead deck in a passenger ship means the uppermost deck at any point in the subdivision length
(Ls) to which the main bulkheads and the ship’s shell are carried watertight and the lowermost deck from
which passenger and crew evacuation will not be impeded by water in any stage of flooding for damage
cases defined in regulation 8 and in part B-2 of this chapter. The bulkhead deck may be a stepped deck.
In a cargo ship the freeboard deck may be taken as the bulkhead deck.“

4.2.4 External heeling moments

Related regulation: MSC.Res.216(82), Reg. 7-2.4
Explanatory Notes: additional text available

For passenger vessels an additional survivability factor smom is to be calculated for each case. By this
calculation external heeling moments due to passenger movement, wind pressure and launching of
survival crafts are considered. For the calculation of smom the intact displacement is to be taken at the
subdivision draught.
In calculating the heeling moment due to launching of survival craft MSurvivalcraft the lever arm of the
empty boats is between the stowage position and the position fully swung out, while the lever arm for
the persons is from centre line of the ship to the centre line of the rescue boat in the position fully swung
out. Because the lever arm of the boats increases with heel and with the height of the guide roller above
the water, these quantities have to be included in the calculation of MSurvivalcraft. The heel angle to be
assumed is 15 deg as this is the limit for s > 0.
For calculation the curves of righting arms the heeling levers can be assumed as constant over the
whole range of heel.

4.2.5 Intermediate stages of flooding

Related regulation: MSC.Res.216(82), Reg. 7-2.2, Reg. 7-2.5.4
Explanatory Notes: additional text available

For passenger vessels an additional survivability factor sintermediate is to be calculated for each case
where intermediate stages of flooding occur. By this calculation the effect of cross-flooding devices
respectively the effect of progressive flooding is taken into consideration. Such calculation for

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intermediate stages should be performed wherever equalization is not instantaneous, i.e. equalization is
of duration greater than 60 sec.
In the Explanatory Notes samples for flooding boundaries which could restrict the flow of water are
listed. Where calculation of intermediate stages is required, each stage should comprise of at least two
intermediate filling phases in addition to the full phase per flooded space.

5 Documents to be submitted for examination and approval to Class

Related regulation: ---
Explanatory Notes: Appendix, Reg. 2

Clear guidance is given in the Explanatory Notes what is the required scope of documentation to be
submitted. In general the documentation shall be comprehensive and complete to allow the examination
body (i.e. classification society or Flag State Administration) to verify all input data and calculated results
in detail.
For checking the input data of the calculation the following is needed: lines plan, hydrostatic data, cross
curves, sub-compartments (including centres of gravity and permeability), watertight integrity plan (with
all internal and external opening points), subdivision limits, draught data, opening points (with their level
of tightness); watertight door location with pressure calculation, wind profile, cross and down flooding
devices and the time calculations.
As initial data for the calculation the following is needed: subdivision length, initial draughts with
corresponding GM values, R index, A index with summary tables.
For checking the calculated data detailed results for each damages cases that contributes to the A
index is to be given such as: draught, trim, heel, GM, dimension of damage with probabilistic values, p,
v and r, righting lever curve with survivability factor s, critical opening point (weathertight and
unprotected).
Emphasis is laid on a Watertight Integrity Plan (Reg. 2.2.5) which describes the assumption for the
damage stability calculation in form of a drawing by showing the watertight subdivision of the vessel and
openings therein. Further it is to be noted that a detailed presentation of results for each damage case
(Reg. 2.3.1.2) including full righting lever curve data for each case contributing to the attained index is
required.

6 On-board documentation
Related regulation: MSC.Res.216(82), Reg. 5-1.4 and 19
Explanatory Notes: Appendix Reg. 1.2

The ship’s master shall be provided with clear intact stability requirements which are to be included in
the Stability Booklet. In general this is achieved by determining GM/KG-limit curves, containing the
admissible stability values for the draught and trim range to be covered.
For the on-board documentation Damage Control Plans and Damage Control Booklets are to be
prepared. These documents are intended to provide the ship's officer in charge with clear information on
the ship's watertight compartmentation and equipment related to maintaining the boundaries and
effectiveness of the compartmentation so that, in the event of damage to the ship, proper precautions

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can be taken to prevent progressive flooding through openings therein and effective action can be taken
to quickly mitigate and, where possible, recover the ship's loss of stability.
Newly implemented is the requirement as stated in the Explanatory Notes, that a Damage Control Plan
and Damage Control Booklet is also to be provided for tank vessels.

7 Contact Persons at Germanischer Lloyd

Headoffice:
Christoph Peickert christoph.peickert@gl-group.com +49 (0)40 36149 – 3705
(deputy head of stability department)

Korea:
Jan Schreiber jan.schreiber@gl-group.com +82 (0)51 4401 – 251

China:
Hanno Fimmen hanno.fimmen@gl-group.com +86 (0)21 61416 – 733

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