Inadequate communication and planning causes fouled thruster
- DP Event
- Published on 29 March 2017
- Generated on 9 May 2025
- DPE 01/17
- 1 minute read
Undesired event
They did not realise they were isolating the opposite thruster and consequently the thruster closest to the lay chute was still running.
Comments
During the over boarding of the end termination through the starboard aft chute, the cable laying shift supervisor asked the bridge to isolate thruster No.5 (port quarter) instead of thruster No.6 (starboard quarter).
They did not realise they were isolating the opposite thruster and consequently the thruster closest to the lay chute was still running. Moreover, they asked the bridge to move backwards and in the same direction where the end termination was being laid down. This movement contributed to the end termination deployment rope fouling thruster No.6.
Considerations
- There was either a lack of operational planning or it was inadequate.
- The event highlights the need for accurate and verified communication between key control centres.
- With three satellite derived position systems on line and the acoustic system on standby the vessel was not complying with the requirements of IMO Circular 645.
Latest DP incidents
-
Complete the job
Whilst connected to a turbine, an alarm was generated on the DP operator station, ‘Unbalanced load on SWBD 1’.
DPE 01/25
16 January 2025
Undesired event
-
Beware your centre of rotation
The stern thrusters started to oscillate which transferred to an oscillating motion of the vessel and high forces were being used to try to maintain position.
DPE 01/25
16 January 2025
Incident
-
A-Tension
Whilst pipelaying in shallow water, the vessel experienced a tension sensor failure on one tensioner.
DPE 01/25
16 January 2025
-
How is your alignment?
Loss of the CyScan position reference system generated a reference system failure alarm and moments later the vessel began to lose position with the accompanying alarms.
DPE 01/25
16 January 2025
Incident
-
DP Drill Scenario
DP emergency drill scenarios are included to assist DP vessel management, DPOs / Engineers, and ETOs in conducting DP drills onboard.
DPE 01/25
16 January 2025
Drill Scenario
The case studies and observations above have been compiled from information received by IMCA. All vessel, client, and operational data has been removed from the narrative to ensure anonymity. Case studies are not intended as guidance on the safe conduct of operations, but rather to assist vessel managers, DP operators, and technical crew.
IMCA makes every effort to ensure both the accuracy and reliability of the information, but it is not liable for any guidance and/or recommendation and/or statement herein contained.
Any queries should be directed to DP team at IMCA. Share your DP incidents with IMCA online. Sign-up to receive DP event bulletins straight to your email.