The International Marine Contractors Association (IMCA), The Marine Technology Society Dynamic Positioning Committee (MTS DPC), and the Oil Companies International Marine Forum (OCIMF) are pleased to announce the release of JDP01 – A Unified Approach to Verification, Validation, and Assurance of Single Fault Tolerance in DP Systems.
This milestone publication presents a unified approach setting out how the global offshore industry can assure DP vessels are capable of delivering safe, reliable, and environmentally responsible operations with predictable outcomes.
The publication is the result of a collaborative effort among IMCA, MTS DPC and OCIMF, as well as classification societies, DP assurance providers, vessel operators, and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs).
The JDP01 publication refocuses industry best practice on a core principle: proving single fault tolerance (SFT) in absolute terms. Its guidance introduces a comprehensive, transparent framework for assessing redundancy integrity and implementing evidence-based validation into every stage of design, testing, and operation.
Richard Purser - IMCA
This new guidance represents a transition from ‘tick-box’ compliance to comprehensive, systems-engineered assurance in DP safety and dependability.
The publication will serve as a critical reference for vessel designers, shipyards, assurance providers, charterers, and operators. By bringing together MTS’s academic and technical leadership, IMCA’s contractor-driven focus, and OCIMF’s commitment to operational excellence and safety, this collaboration is designed to enhance maritime safety through consistency and standardisation.
“This initiative reflects the best of our industry coming together, with purpose, discipline, and vision to address complex safety and environmental challenges,” said Suman Muddusetti, Chairman of the MTS DPC. “With JDP01, we are not only enhancing station-keeping reliability but also supporting the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, enabling confidence in more efficient operational configurations.”
Richard Purser, Technical Adviser – Marine, at IMCA, said: “This new guidance represents a transition from ‘tick-box’ compliance to comprehensive, systems-engineered assurance in DP safety and dependability. It highlights that single fault tolerance is the key to safe DP operations and that all stakeholders – vessel owners, equipment manufacturers, vessel designers, and DP practitioners – have a role to play in ensuring that vessels have single fault tolerance in multiple configurations of DP systems to ensure safe DP operations.
“We expect this guidance will support standardisation across the industry and improve assurance outcomes for all stakeholders.”
The Dynamic Positioning Committee is one of 15 committees under the umbrella of the Marine Technology Society, a professional society that advocates for marine technology and resources while promoting member success and public understanding.
OCIMF is a voluntary association of oil companies with an interest in the shipment and terminalling of crude oil, oil products, petrochemicals and gas. It promotes best practice in the design, construction and operation of tankers, barges and offshore vessels, and their interfaces with terminals.
JDP01 – A Unified Approach to Verification, Validation, and Assurance of Single Fault Tolerance in DP Systems is available to download here.
