Lack of operational planning leads to DP incident
- DP Event
- Published on 28 September 2020
- Generated on 24 December 2025
- DPE 03/20
- 2 minute read
Incident
The loss of both DGNSS were due to huge superstructure of the installation interfering with satellite signals.
Comments
It was concluded that the loss of both DGNSS were due to huge superstructure of the installation interfering with satellite signals. This phenomenon is called reflection meaning DGNSS picks up reflected signals from the surroundings.
Considerations
- The vessel was not being operated as a DP Equipment Class 2, as the requirement is at least three independent position reference systems should be installed and simultaneously available to the DP control system. Reference Guidance on Position Reference Systems and Sensors for DP Vessels (IMCA M252).
- Loss of more than one DGNSS position reference system is a well-known issue due to external common cause failures, for example shielding of reference satellites and/or differential corrections.
- Operational planning and decision support tools, such as Activity Specific Operating Guidelines (ASOG), were clearly not in use or were inadequate. Reference Guidance on Operational Activity Planning (IMCA M220).
- It appears that the DP Alert system was not used.
- It is mentioned in the report that at 08:09, master takes control of the vessel by the IJS. It is unclear from the report why the vessel then made contact with the installation. Reference: The Training and experience of Key DP personnel (IMCA M117).
- .This event clearly demonstrates the benefit that can be gained from regular DP exercises and drills.
Latest DP incidents
-
Simultaneous Operations
A DP Incident report highlighting the importance of maintaining focus during time on the DP desk
DPE 03/25
18 December 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 03/25
18 December 2025
Drill Scenario
-
Know your settings
This Dynamic Positioning (DP) incident involved a DP equipment class 2 offshore supply vessel (OSV) during loadout operations from a drilling rig.
DPE 03/25
18 December 2025
Incident
-
Importance of familiarisation and paying attention
The importance of maintaining full attention during the operator's time on the DP desk can never be underestimated, or forgotten
DPE 03/25
18 December 2025
Incident
-
Worst case failure preparedness
Operators must be prepared for worst case failures
DPE 03/25
18 December 2025
Incident
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.