Dynamic Positioning
Dynamic positioning techniques enable vessel operators to work safely and efficiently in ever deeper waters and harsher environments. IMCA helps the industry through development of guidance, publication of technical reports, seminars and workshops and the collection and analysis of incident reports.
Dynamic positioning (DP) is where a vessel maintains its position and heading using sophisticated positioning systems and other sensors and its own thrusters and propellers. It facilitates work in waters deeper than vessels using anchors or jack-ups can achieve and is widely used in the offshore oil and gas, renewable energy, cable-lay and related industries.
IMCA has produced an Introduction to Dynamic Positioning which describes the principles of DP and its use and also gives a fascinating insight into the fascinating range of marine operations that are undertaken offshore.
Guidance and technical reports
IMCA publishes a variety of guidance documents, setting out industry good practice based on the cumulative experience of its members operating around the world to help them in ensuring safe and efficient operations. A key document in relation to DP is the Guidelines for the design and operation of dynamically positioned vessels (IMCA M 103), which is regularly reviewed and updated to reflect technological developments and operational achievements. IMCA also works closely with other organisations (notably holding observer status at IMO) where it can represent members, put forward their expertise and assist in ensuring national/international regulations and other industry documents appropriately reflect the industry, its technology and successful self-regulation where relevant.
A range of documents also address trials programmes and auditing of DP vessels, helping set out comprehensive formats that can be widely adopted and recognised by vessel operators and their clients, ensuring all relevant aspects are addressed and further enhancing efficiency for all parties.
Technical reports are also commissioned, aimed at helping vessel operators review, specify, maintain and use a variety of positioning systems, thrusters, power and vessel management systems and other equipment.
Full information on the range of documents relating to DP can be found in our Marine publications area.
Incident reporting and analysis
IMCA maintains a database of incidents on DP vessels which extends back over more than 25 years and strongly encourages submission of reports by all DP vessel operating companies. Each year reports received are collated and an anonymised analysis of the incidents is published (click here for report details).
Through this work, IMCA helps establish trends and common causes/potential hazards that can be addressed through IMCA work and discussion with vessel operators, equipment suppliers, training establishments and others. The results have helped to keep the DP fleet operational, safe and acceptable to clients and regulators by feeding in to improvements in design, procedures and training.
Click here for full details on IMCA's incident reporting and analysis systems.
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DP incidents (DP vessels)