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News from IMCA 2007
December 2007- Key IMCA guidelines for DP vessels updated
IMCA's Guidelines for the design and operation of dynamically positioned vessels have been revised. Fully reviewed and updated, the new guidelines reflect technological changes, operations in deeper waters and a variety of regulatory and standards-driven changes. The previously separate supplement on two-vessel operations has also been incorporated in the guidelines.
- Marine inspection checklist for small workboats updated
IMCA has reissued its Marine inspection checklist for small workboats, aimed at helping its members ensure the safety of various smaller vessels used for aspects of their own offshore operations. The checklist has been fully reviewed and updated to reflect current good practice and technical and regulatory developments.
November 2007- IMCA updates guidance on marking and colour coding of diving gas containers
IMCA has updated the guidance previously contained in AODC 016 on the marking and colour coding of gas cylinders, quads and banks for diving applications. The guidance has been thoroughly reviewed and updated, so that the new publication reflects current international standards and practices.
- Registration opens for IMCA safety seminar 2008
Safety Excellence in a Global Environment is the theme for the 2008 IMCA safety seminar, which will take place in Abu Dhabi on 12-13 February. A packed programme has been developed featuring presentations, discussions sessions, a safety share fair and more. The event aims to attract onshore and offshore management responsible for safety together with operational personnel, to share a wide range of experience and opinions.
- IMCA to hold ROV seminar alongside Oceanology International 2008
IMCA is to hold a half-day seminar on ROV matters alongside the popular Oceanology International (oi08) event at ExCeL in London on 12 March 2008, following on from a successful seminar at oi06. Full details coming soon to this website.
- CD of Paris seminar proceedings now available
A CD of the proceedings of the record-breaking IMCA annual seminar held in Paris on 6-7 November is now available and has been distributed to delegates and other members. The CD contains all of the presentations in full, together with extensive reports on the seminar as a whole, the highly productive workshops, exhibition and social events.
- From the President - November 2007
"We are seeing an increasing need for qualified diving personnel and note members' emphasis on addressing the shortage of skilled personnel in this area... We are also very pleased to see that our members are taking seriously the responsibility of attracting new people by significantly increasing the numbers certified."
Plus: Shipyard safety, continuing growth in membership and demand for IMCA publications and guidelines, and a record success for the annual seminar in Paris
- IMCA annual seminar draws record numbers in Paris
The 2007 IMCA annual seminar attracted a record 350 delegates. With a packed programme on both commercial and technical issues, including presentations, workshops, an exhibition and social events, the event has been deemed a resounding success. A full report will be added to the website shortly.
- New diving guidance addresses concrete mattress issues
IMCA Diving Division has published new guidance setting out 'Guidelines for diver-based concrete mattress handling, deployment, installation, repositioning and decommissioning'. They set out a useful reference based on industry good practice and historical experience, covering practical issues involved in operations, as well as the associated safety and environmental concerns.
October 2007- Changes to IMCA publication pricing
IMCA has changed its pricing policies and issued a fully reviewed and updated publications catalogue, with many prices changed, often to a lower level. This website reflects all of the changes, with the updated catalogue also available for downloading - please download the new version and replace any earlier copies you may have.
- IMCA publishes new guidelines for lifting operations
Lifting is a key part of almost all offshore and subsea operations. It can range from lifting of stores and spares handling through to complicated and heavy lifts and there could be as in excess of 200 different lifting operations on a vessel. Each lift brings with it the possibility of injury to people and damage to equipment, but with proper planning hazards can be identified and risks reduced or eliminated. New guidelines produced by IMCA show essential components that should be in included in company procedures for lifting operations and to offer advice on the steps within a lifting operation process that will promote safety.
- Revised IMCA International Code of Practice for Offshore Diving now available
A new edition of the IMCA International Code of Practice for Offshore Diving (IMCA D 014 Rev. 1) - one of the association's key guidance documents - is now available. Full reviewed and updated, the new issue reflects developments in good practice and technology as well as extended references to other guidance documents to help contractors ensure safe and efficient operations world-wide.
- Guidance on shared use of sensors for DP and survey operations updated
IMCA has reissued its guidelines for the shared use of sensors for DP and survey operations, incorporating useful feedback received from members since their initial publication. Complementing the earlier guide on sharing of DGPS systems, the guidelines highlight risks associated with sharing a vessel's dynamic positioning systems for survey operations and set out guidance on procedures to mitigate such risks.
August 2007- From the President - August 2007
An element of safety which is causing growing concern is security; security of our people when they operate from countries where the security situation is such that special precautions need to be implemented to protect them. I believe I have our members behind me when I say that the life and health of our people is an area which should not be deemed part of the normal and sound competition which we have in our markets. Adequate security for our people should be a minimum requirement which we should never compromise.
Plus: the high level of activity in IMCA and the industry, and IMCA reaches 400 members
July 2007- Registration open for IMCA annual seminar - New Frontiers in Marine Contracting
The 2007 IMCA annual seminar, entitled New Frontiers in Marine Contracting, will take place on 6-7 November at the Paris Rive Gauche Hotel & Conference Centre. An exciting programme of presentations, discussion sessions and workshops has been assembled, with the regular exhibition alongside and a variety of social and networking events. Online registration is now open, with the programme and reservation brochure available for downloading.
- New IMCA careers brochure tells recruits "Open your horizons"
IMCA has published a new brochure alerting potential new recruits to the exciting career opportunities in the marine contracting industry. The shortage of skilled personnel being faced by contractors all around the world is an issue of vital importance and one that is being actively addressed by IMCA. Open your horizons is the latest tool IMCA is using to help members attract new people into the industry, available in printed form and for downloading from this website
- IMCA case study brings diver careers information to life
The latest addition to IMCA's range of careers information is a fascinating case study of a diver and diving supervisor. Telling first hand the exciting opportunities and rewards experienced, it adds a new dimension to the material previously available. The case study forms part of an expanding set of careers information now available to view online and for downloading.
June 2007- Updated version of the Common Marine Inspection Document (CMID) now available
IMCA has updated the Common Marine Inspection Document (CMID). Used widely around the world by operators and clients, it provides a consistent, recognisable format for auditing of offshore vessels, helping avoid unnecessary duplication and variation, improving efficiency and benefiting all parties. The latest version includes an updated supplement for seismic vessels together with other minor updates, with a user-friendly e-version and guidance also available.
- IMCA updates its guidance on underwater air lift bags
Underwater lift bags are major pieces of lifting equipment and should be treated with the respect that any such equipment warrants. An updated IMCA publication aims to provide clear guidance on six related topics: fitness for purpose; examination and testing criteria; maintenance; operational considerations; operational guidance; safety precautions during use. This latest update reflects the latest operational experience and includes additional example lifts.
- Latest DP incidents analysis published
The sixteenth annual report on dynamic positioning station keeping incidents has been published (IMCA M 176). Some 36 reported incidents which occurred during 2005 are covered in the document, with a comprehensive event tree for each together with analysis and summary of key findings and trends. Work on the 2006 is already well underway within the IMCA secretariat and vessel operators are being encouraged to submit their incident reports to IMCA.
- IMCA Midsummer Charity Ball a huge success
The 2007 IMCA charity ball took place on 8 June at the magnificent Fyvie Castle in Aberdeenshire, UK. A glamorous and exciting evening was enjoyed by 250 members and guests, with superb dining, entertainment and dancing, as well as games and a casino that raised a record £2,500 for the World Maritime University, supporting the education and training of seafarers.
May 2007- New guidance on shared use of sensors for DP and survey operations
Following the publication in 2005 of Guidelines for the shared use of DGPS for DP and survey operations, the IMCA Offshore Survey Division has now published a follow-up guide relating to sharing of other sensors. There are serious risks associated with sharing a vessel's dynamic positioning, which are highlighted, while guidance is given on procedures to mitigate such risks.
- IMCA golf day goes with a swing
The third annual IMCA golf day took place on 15 May 2007, with a record eighty competitors enjoying a great day's competition. Will Black of Shell won the overall competition for the IMCA Quaich, with prizes shared among the field. A full report, list of winners and photographs from the day are now online.
- From the President - May 2007
"Last month we were brutally reminded about the risks which exist in our marine industry. A brand new vessel, an experienced operator, an apparently standard operation and still an accident can happen. This catastrophe should serve as a reminder to all of our members that in our safety efforts the identification of hazards is an everlasting activity which is never complete."
Plus: communicating the principles of self-regulation and forthcoming industry events
April 2007- Recruitment links to member websites now live
IMCA has established a new links system to help those looking for careers to find out more about specific positions and broader career options from its members operating world-wide. Members have been invited to submit their own recruitment web links - any not yet included should get in touch with the secretariat.
March 2007- Spectacular IMCA Midsummer Charity Ball planned at Fyvie Castle - booking now open
The 2007 IMCA Midsummer Charity Ball is to take place on 8 June at the magnificent National Trust for Scotland venue of Fyvie Castle in Aberdeenshire. Taking place in the castle's beautiful grounds, with fine cuisine, speeches, music and dancing, members and their guests are in for a very special evening. Online booking is now open - book early to ensure your company's place.
- IMCA Golf Day 2007 - registration open
The 2007 IMCA Golf Day will take place on 15 May at the Newmachar golf course near Aberdeen. The third annual event, this year competitors will be playing a new course for the IMCA Quaich and a range of other prizes. Can anyone beat Subsea 7's players to the individual prize, held since the inaugural 2005 event? Online booking is now open.
- Updated list of recognised diver certificates online
IMCA has updated its list of recognised diver certificates to reflect changes to certain national government-issued certificates and the availability of competence assessment for experienced divers working for IMCA member and applicant companies through approved providers. Full details can be found on this site, with the relevant documents available for downloading.
February 2007- IMCA enters into mutual recognition agreements for diving supervisor certification
IMCA has signed memoranda of understanding with the Australian Diver Accreditation Scheme (ADAS), Diver Certification Board of Canada (DCBC) and Netherlands Diving Centre (NDC) on the mutual recognition of offshore diving supervisor certificates. These agreements seek to ensure the recognition and portability of appropriate certification held by competent diving supervisors, enabling them to work for contractors whether IMCA or specific national certification requirements are being applied. Full details on the agreements and recognition arrangements can now be found on this site.
- Considerations about the use of hold-back vessels during DP diving operations
IMCA has published new guidance which addresses situations where it may be thought that securing a towing vessel to a DP diving vessel may be necessary as an additional safeguard. Such operations, while addressing one risk, can introduce several others. This guidance sets out the various considerations that need to be assessed and concludes that in most situations, a full risk assessment will indeed identify a more appropriate solution.
- IMCA diving supervisor and LST certification schemes - revised documentation available
The guidance document setting out details on the IMCA Offshore Diving Supervisor and Life Support Technician Certification Schemes has been updated The changes reflect the continuing focus on competence and identify changes in the examination application procedures, with the guidance providing an authoritative reference for all those involved in the training and certification process.
- From the President - February 2007
"For 2007, the picture remains positive for our industry and it is difficult to foresee anything other than the workload remaining at a very high level. This is good news for our industry, but it does not come without creating certain challenges as well. we will see a lot of new tonnage entering the market. This is a necessity to satisfy the high workload. The new tonnage needs to be manned with highly skilled professionals in order to meet the requirements of the market with regard to execution and safety."
Addressing the skills shortage, plus: safety, sharing experiences and progress on contracting issues
- IMCA seeks Technical Adviser - Diving
As a result of the continued expansion in this influential international trade association, IMCA is now seeking a further Technical Adviser - Diving. This post is based in the London SW1 secretariat and will cover a wide range of activities, including: preparing reports relating to good technical practice, health and safety; drafting and managing IMCA studies; committee work; and interfacing with member companies, government and international agencies. Click on the headline above for full details, including downloadable job description.
- Keeping Safety Personal - IMCA safety seminar a great success
Over 130 delegates gathered at Liverpool FC's Anfield stadium on 1-2 February for the fifth annual IMCA safety seminar. A packed programme, with presentations, discussion sessions and even some magical interjections, prompted much thought, debate and ideas for future work by IMCA. The proceedings CD has now been distributed to delegates and other IMCA members, with a report available on this website.
January 2007- IMCA publishes new ROV support vessel contract
Including in full the widely-used BIMCO Supplytime 89 charter document for offshore service vessels, this extended IMCA contract sets out relevant additional clauses and variations relevant to ROV operations. Through its publication, IMCA is aiming to raise awareness on contracting matters among IMCA members and their clients The new contract is available now as a free download.
- IMCA holding social reception aboard HQS Wellington
IMCA is holding a social reception aboard HQS Wellington, moored on the bank of the River Thames in London, on 29 March 2007. The event is intended to bring together and entertain a variety of members and guests, including international marine contractors, marine lawyers, insurance brokers and underwriters, P&I clubs, government representatives and other industry bodies. A beautiful floating museum, Livery Hall of the Honourable Company of Master Mariners, HQS Wellington provides an excellent venue for a social and networking event to look forward to.
- IMCA assists members ensure security with new threat risk assessment procedure guide
Threat risk assessment enables companies to identify actual or perceived threats with a view to initiating and recommending countermeasures and mitigation strategies to detect and deter threats and reduce vulnerability to potential incidents. The IMCA Security Task Force has therefore produced a procedure which sets out a simplified risk-based method of undertaking such assessments. In addition to improving security and safety, such an analysis can also be a valuable aid in allocating resources, forward planning, contingency planning and budgeting.
- IMCA publishes ISPS Code guide
IMCA members want to provide a safe and secure working environment for all of their workforces and fully endorse the International Ship & Port Facility Security Code (the ISPS Code). However, whilst vessel crews will be familiar with the code, other parties visiting the vessel or company port facility might not be. This new publication has been developed to aid those other parties with understanding the code and the reason for its implementation. It may also be useful as a general reference for all personnel.
- New guidance on investigation and reporting published
IMCA has published a new guide to assist companies in developing and enhancing procedures for incident investigation and reporting. The guide is useful both to those charged with determining the root causes of offshore incidents as well as the broader workforce - any offshore worker can benefit and enhance the incident reporting and investigation through a fuller understanding of the processes involved. This guidance aims to reflect current practice for setting up incident investigation and reporting procedures and, primarily, to examine how these may be improved to help identify root causes.
- New careers case studies - find out more about working in the offshore survey sector
IMCA is developing a series of case studies featuring individuals working in key roles offshore, as part of its efforts to promote the industry to potential recruits. The first case studies are now available, highlighting the offshore survey sector and covering the positions of offshore surveyor, survey engineer, data processor and geophysicist.
- IMCA becomes a Supporting Organization of OTC
IMCA is now an official Supporting Organization of OTC - the Offshore Technology Conference. The world\'s premier exhibition and conference for the offshore industry, this year's event takes place on 30 April-3 May at the Reliant Center. IMCA will be present in booth S14, while many members are either exhibiting and/or presenting technical papers as part of the conference's extensive and highly interesting programme. See www.otcnet.org for more information.
- Latest pocket card provides a safety guide to hazardous substances
IMCA's series of safety promotion materials continues to expand, with the publication of the fifteenth pocket card - Hazardous Substances Safety Guide. The card addresses planning, precautions to be taken before, during and after use and actions to be taken in case of spills . Available in printed form and downloadable by members for printing with company logos, references, etc., the cards help offshore personnel keep key safety messages to hand and in mind in a variety of work situations.
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