Design of offshore structures: impact of the possible existence of freak waves

Abstract. The importance of the possible existence of so-called freak waves regarding structural design is discussed. At first the framework for design of offshore structures on the Norwegian continental shelf is presented for the purpose of indicating the annual exceedance probabilities of concern regarding design. The adequacy of the second order random model for the sea surface process is briefly indicated. It is suggested that freak waves should be defined as wave events from a population not captured by the second order model. Evidences of the existence of freak waves are discussed and possible originating mechanisms for their existence are commented upon. Finally, a probabilistic framework for accounting for freak waves in design is presented. The approach is illustrated by assessing the total wave induced load on a generic jacket structure

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