The standard covers drilling systems and equipment located both surface and subsea, including wellhead connectors, but not wellhead or elements located below wellhead.

The prescriptive requirements in the standard are the results of generic hazard identification and barrier analysis based on existing technology and operations.

Guidance note:

For complex or non-standard applications, see DNV-OS-A101 Ch.2 Sec.1 [2.1.6].

Prescriptive requirements are not intended to inhibit the development and application of new technology and operations, and available technological and technical improvements at the time of application should be taken into account.

Introduction of novel technology or designs shall be preceded by a recognised qualification process.

Guidance note:

E.g. as described in DNV-RP-A203.

Alternative solutions, if documented to provide an equivalent level of safety as required by this standard, may be considered to comply with the standard.