Inadequate communication and planning causes fouled thruster
- DP Event
- Published on 29 March 2017
- Generated on 18 September 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
-
Always be prepared – Erroneous relative GPS heading input jeopardises follow target operations
Always be prepared – Erroneous relative GPS heading input jeopardises follow target operations
DPE 02/25
1 August 2025
Incident
-
Printer compatibility
This undesired event occurred on a DP Class 3 drillship, whilst operating in open bus configuration and undertaking drilling operations.
DPE 02/25
1 August 2025
Undesired event
-
Inadvertent act causes loss of DP, once again!
While vessel was recovering scrap metal using an ROV and crane, an alarm was triggered, but the DPO could not silence it
DPE 02/25
1 August 2025
Incident
-
DP drill scenario
DP emergency drill scenarios are included to assist DP vessel management and DPOs / Engineers and ETOs to conduct DP drills onboard.
DPE 02/25
1 August 2025
Drill Scenario
-
News in brief from the DP Committee
Currently under review, or to commence review before the end of 2025 are: M103 – Guidelines for the Design & Operation of Dynamic Positioning Vess...
DPE 02/25
1 August 2025
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.