This document represents the recognised and agreed industry standard for the training, competence and experience required of all key DP personnel on dynamically positioned vessels.

The guidance is designed for vessels engaged in operations where loss of position could cause one or more of the following: severe pollution, loss of life, major damage and economic loss. The formal training courses to be attended by DP operators are defined in content, verification and approval. The practical experience required and the certification is also defined. Training for ETOs, EROs and engineers is specified. The training can be performed either at an approved institution or onboard a vessel, provided the training is equivalent. In addition, guidance is given on a structured familiarisation procedure for key DP personnel joining a DP vessel or commencing a new project. The principles and practice for refresher training are provided as are the requirements for operators wishing to submit experience in lieu of formal training. In general, formal training is to be assessed and all training is to be approved, so that a common standard exists internationally.

The guidance underwent a thorough review involving IMCA members and other industry stakeholders, resulting in the publication of this updated text in 2006. The 1996 original of this document was referenced by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), which considered the issue of training of dynamic position system (DP) operators in relation to paragraph 4.12 of the 1989 MODU Code and noted that the IMCA document could be used as a guideline for the training of DP operators, encouraging member governments to bring them to the attention of bodies concerned and apply them to the training of key DP personnel. IMO has been advised of this update and will consider the revised document in due course.

This document also underpins the IMCA guidance on competence assurance and assessment as it applies in the marine operations area.