The Global Passport: Why Functional Containers Need Multi-Standard Compliance (DNV, ATEX, IECEx)

​In the world of global energy, oil & gas, and chemical projects, a functional container is much more than a simple steel box. It's a critical, high-value platform housing sophisticated electrical, control, and safety systems.

For any project, compliance is non-negotiable. It's the essential "entry ticket" that determines whether a platform can be delivered, installed, and smoothly put into operation. When you ship a unit across borders or install it in a hazardous environment, it must carry its "global passport" of certifications.

At TLS, we understand that international compliance isn't a cost—it’s the foundation of trust and operational readiness. That's why multi-standard compliance is our first design principle.

1. DNV 2.7-1: The Offshore Safety Baseline
For projects in the harsh, dynamic conditions of the sea—including offshore oil, gas, and wind—safety starts with the structure.

• What it is: The DNV 2.7-1 standard is the definitive rule for offshore containers.
• What it covers: It rigorously ensures the container’s strength, lifting safety, stacking ability, and impact resistance.
• Why it matters: Meeting DNV 2.7-1 guarantees the container will remain stable, safe, and secure under extreme transport scenarios and rough sea conditions.

2. IECEx & ATEX: Dual Systems for Explosion-Proof Compliance
When functional containers are deployed in petrochemical plants or other hazardous gas zones, explosion protection is paramount. You need proof that the systems inside will not become an ignition source.

• IECEx (International System): This is the global standard for explosion-proof electrical equipment, verifying safe use in Zone 1/Zone 2 environments worldwide. It allows for global trade and acceptance.
• ATEX (EU Directive): This is the mandatory requirement for the European market, covering everything from the design and manufacturing to the installation of equipment used in potentially explosive atmospheres.

The TLS Approach: We don't just use compliant components; we ensure the complete system is verified. From cable entries and junction boxes to lighting and fans, we use only certified explosion-proof components and verify their installation as a fully compliant, integrated unit.

3. CSC & ISO: The "Passport" for Global Transport
Safety and explosion-proofing aside, your container needs to be shippable. Without the proper transport certifications, a project can be stalled indefinitely at a port.

• CSC (International Convention for Safe Containers): This certification is essential for the safe handling and transport of containers, ensuring they pass critical port inspections and meet shipping requirements.
• ISO Standards: These standards work alongside CSC to ensure the container is structurally sound, legally compliant, and can pass customs and shipping requirements without issues.

These two certifications are the "passport" that allows your container to move legally and smoothly through global ports and shipping lanes.
 
The Integrated Compliance Advantage
Focusing on a single standard is a narrow approach that limits global deployment. Our integrated compliance strategy ensures the container is ready for any environment and any destination:

• Structure: Follows DNV 2.7-1 for ultimate offshore safety.
• Electrical/Safety: Meets both IECEx/ATEX for global explosion protection.
• Logistics: Complies with CSC/ISO for seamless global transport.
• Quality: Manufacturing processes follow ISO 9001 quality management.

This multi-standard, full-process approach means that every functional container we deliver is not just shipped, but is fully validated and ready for safe, reliable operation anywhere in the world.

Ready to ensure your next critical system is fully compliant, no matter the destination?

TLS Offshore Containers / TLS Energy is a global supplier of standard and customised containerised solutions. 
Wherever you are in the world TLS can help you, please contact us.
 
​
Keywords: #Functional containers compliance, #DNV 2.7-1 containers, #ATEX IECEx functional containers, #Offshore container certification, #Explosion-proof control containers, #Global container compliance standards, #CSC ISO certified containers, #Hazardous area containers, #Multi-standard functional containers, #Oil and gas project container requirements

Written by Oliver

---