The DP Operator’s Handbook Second Edition

The Nautical Institute has launched The DP Operator’s Handbook Second Edition by Capt David Bray FNI to support aspiring dynamic positioning operators (DPOs) and those more experienced who may want to refresh their skills or move their career into other areas of the industry.

According to Captain Robert McCabe FNI, president of The Nautical Institute, this book reflects the new standards; supports DP training and best practice and provides advice to those who may be experienced in some, but not all, activities. The book contributes to maintain appropriate levels of professional development based upon knowledge, skills, experience and attitude within the Institute’s certificated DPO community.

The launch of The DP Operator’s Handbook second edition coincides with the shipping industry becoming more sophisticated in its use of DP. Although DP assisted vessels are operated for 50 years and principles have changed very little, vessels get ever larger and usage is rising as more in the maritime industry are seeing the benefits of this system. DP is seen on vessels outside the offshore sector where it was first developed – in many areas of commercial activity, such as cruise ships and military craft.

When the first edition of this book was launched there were about 6,000 DP operators in the industry with certificates to prove they had met the industry standards. Today there are over 27,000 and last year alone The Nautical Institute issued more than 3,000 certificates on behalf of the industry.

DP Training Scheme Changes

To cope with this demand, the Institute invested in expanding the team and a new online area – the Alexis Platform – as the single access point for the scheme. The web platform and the new book coincide with the implementation of changes to the DP training scheme and standards, which were agreed by industry following a worldwide comprehensive review of training needs in 2013.

The book was written by Captain David Bray FNI together with co-authors Captain Glenn Fiander, Captain John Daniels and Captain Dane Foster MNI.

Captain Bray stated that this handbook is aimed at those who may be learning DP systems after serving on more conventional vessels, and it highlights some of the pitfalls and problems that may be experienced. It provides an overview of the topic, the aim is to lead the reader into further study and discussion, supplemented by references to further reading.

The DP Operator’s Handbook second edition, ISBN: 978 1 906915 25 4, is available from The Nautical Institute.