International Guidelines For DP Offshore Supply Vessels

Reliable and robust methods of positioning are essential for safe operation of supply vessels at offshore installations. Responding to industry needs as supply vessels have been increasingly fitted with DP (dynamic positioning), a cross-industry workgroup, facilitated by IMCA - the International Marine Contractors Association � and comprising representatives from vessel owners, including offshore supply vessel owners, oil companies, charterers, subsea construction companies, marine consultants and trade associations has published �International Guidelines for the Safe Operation of Dynamically Positioned Offshore Supply Vessels�. The guidelines review international and regional regulatory requirements, classification society and other industry requirements. They give guidance on what owners should have in place as far as certification and documentation are concerned and also provide guidance on manning, including levels of training, certification, skills and experience. The 48-page document also gives guidance on a risk management approach aimed at minimising the risk of loss of position. There are further risk reduction measures, as well as DP operating procedures and DP incident reporting.