CAN/CSA-S473-04 (R2009)

1 Scope 1.1 This Standard specifies requirements for the design and fabrication of steel fixed offshore structures whose design is based on limit states. 1.2 1.2.1 This Standard applies to standard steel fixed offshore structures. Supplementary rules or requirements may be necessary for unusual types of construction. The resistances of the non-tubular members of the structures comprising the topside facilities and main deck are covered in CAN/CSA-S16. 1.2.2 An alternative rational design method based on theory, analysis, and recognized engineering practice may be used in lieu of the design process and formulae provided in this Standard, provided that it establishes levels of safety and performance that are at least equal to those established by this Standard and CSA S471. 1.2.3 Special systems for the design or construction of structural elements not covered by this Standard may be used, provided that they (a) are based on generally accepted analytical and engineering principles and, where necessary, reliable test data; and (b) establish levels of safety and performance that are at least equal to those established by this Standard and CSA S471. 1.2.4 Steels of higher strength than those covered by this Standard may be used when it can be documented that their weldability and toughness are such that the fracture resistance of the steel and its weldments provides levels of fracture control at least equivalent to those provided by the requirements of Clause 6. 1.3 In this Standard, dimensions are expressed in millimetres and forces in newtons unless otherwise noted. 1.4 For the purpose of determining compliance with this Standard, the limiting value of an observed or calculated value should be expressed to the nearest integer in accordance with the rounding-off method described in CAN/CSA-Z234.1. 1.5 In CSA Standards, "shall" is used to express a requirement, i.e., a provision that the user is obliged to satisfy in order to comply with the standard; "should" is used to express a recommendation or that which is advised but not required; "may" is used to express an option or that which is permissible within the limits of the standard; and "can" is used to express possibility or capability. Notes accompanying clauses do not include requirements or alternative requirements; the purpose of a note accompanying a clause is to separate from the text explanatory or informative material. Notes to tables and figures are considered part of the table or figure and may be written as requirements. Legends to equations and figures are considered requirements.