Inadequate Position Reference Systems caused incident
- DP Event
- Published on 3 December 2020
- Generated on 22 August 2025
- DPE 04/20
- 2 minute read
Incident
Inadequate risk assessment was not completed and TAM and ASOG were not thoroughly reviewed prior to their approval.
Comments
It is mentioned in the report that task appropriate mode (TAM) and activity specific operating guidelines (ASOG) were in use, with the limitation identified for two DGNSS subject to common mode failure.
Considerations
- Use of only two DGNSS was contrary to the MSc.1 / Circ. 1580 requirements. This meant the vessel was not set up in accordance with DP class 2 requirements of 3 position reference systems based on at least two different principles.
- Vessel sensors selection did not appear to comply with DP class 2 requirements, though this non-compliance was not a factor in the incident.
- Task appropriate mode was in place, indicating that a loss of position was acceptable. However, the incident indicates that an adequate risk assessment was not done and TAM and ASOG were not thoroughly reviewed prior to their approvals.
- When the vessel lost its automatic DP control due to the loss of all its PRSs, the position could have been maintained for a period of time using the DP mathematical model.
- The report states that interference from a faulty laser-based system on the PSV caused the loss of signals to both the DGNSSs. However, this could have been caused by interference of the differential correction signal receivers caused by shielding or reflection.
- Information on radio interference is provided in Guidance on Position Reference Systems and Sensors for DP Operations (IMCA M252), Section 4.6 Operational Consideration Summary.
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
-
Beware the solitons
An equipment class 2 pipelay vessel was engaged in pipelay operations in an area known for solitons
DPE 02/25
1 August 2025
Undesired event
-
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
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.