IN 1726 – IMCA DP Practitioner Scheme

The IMCA DP Practitioner Scheme was developed to establish a clear and consistent baseline of Dynamic Positioning knowledge aligned with IMCA guidance. It was never intended to act as a
certification, licence, or statement of authority.

Recent feedback from members and wider industry engagement has highlighted that the scheme is not consistently understood. In some cases, DP Practitioner status has been misinterpreted or presented in a way that overstates its purpose, particularly from a client and assurance perspective. This creates a risk of inappropriate reliance on the designation and potential confusion around roles, responsibilities, and competence.

This Information Note has therefore been issued to provide immediate clarity on the scope and intent of the scheme.

IMCA also recognises that clarification alone does not resolve the underlying issue. A working group will be established to review the scheme, including its structure, requirements, and how it is communicated. Members will be invited to contribute views as part of this process.

This note should therefore be read as both clarification and the first step in a broader review.

The IMCA DP Practitioner Scheme provides clarity and consistency around a baseline level of Dynamic Positioning knowledge and professional competence.

The scheme exists to support safe DP operations by recognising individuals who understand IMCA DP guidance and can apply it appropriately in practice. It promotes professionalism, sound judgement and ethical behaviour. It does not confer authority or seniority.

The DP Practitioner Scheme is a professional recognition framework.

It confirms that an individual has demonstrated:

• a baseline level of DP knowledge aligned with IMCA guidance
  
  
• an understanding of how that guidance is applied in operational settings
  
  
• the ability to engage constructively on DP related matters
  
  
• commitment to professional and ethical conduct in line with IMCA principles.

Practitioner recognition indicates foundational professional competence.

It does not indicate expert status or decision-making authority.

The scheme is not:

• a certification or licensing scheme
  
  
• a qualification to become a DP Practitioner
  
  
• a qualification to operate DP systems
  
  
• a measure of seniority, rank, or experience beyond a baseline level
  
  
• a substitute for company procedures or class requirements
  
  
• an assurance, audit, or enforcement tool
  
  
• authority to direct DP operations or override vessel crew members.

DP Practitioner status must not be represented as endorsement by the International Marine Contractors Association of an individual, operation, or decision.

DP Practitioners are required to act in accordance with the IMCA Code of Conduct at all times.

This includes an obligation to:

• act with integrity, honesty, and professional independence
  
  
• work within the limits of their competence
  
  
• base advice and opinion on evidence and recognised guidance
  
  
• communicate clearly, respectfully, and without intimidation
  
  
• avoid misrepresentation of their role or authority
  
  
• declare conflicts of interest where they exist.

Practitioners are expected to support safety, learning, and constructive challenge.

They do not act on behalf of IMCA unless formally authorised.

Failure to comply with the Code of Conduct may result in review or withdrawal of Practitioner recognition.

IMCA will establish a working group to review the DP Practitioner Scheme, including its scope, requirements, and positioning within industry.

Members and practitioners will be invited to provide feedback and share experiences to support this review.

For more information about this scheme, please contact [email protected].