Know your vessel capabilities and when to stop!

A comprehensive review has been carried out to assess incidents that jeopardize DP operations, derive valuable lessons, and prevent future dangerous occurrences. These case studies are sourced from the IMCA DP Event Bulletin.

Overview

A DP equipment class 2 PSV was operating in open bus mode with all engines and thrusters engaged. The vessel conducted cargo operations with a larger DP pipelay vessel (PLV) in bad weather.

What occurred?

The supply vessel had been transferring cargo for 25 minutes before the DP incident. Cargo operations occurred under adverse weather, with 40-knot wind gusts and a 2-meter swell.

On reaching the leeside of the pipelay vessel, the supply vessel’s Master confirmed their position and requested the bridge of the pipelay vessel to reduce the strong thrust wash. The pipelay Bridge approved the request, and cargo operations began.

Ten minutes later, the supply vessel’s Master informed the pipelay Bridge that they were using excessive thrust, with power and thrusters operating at 70% and 77% capacity, respectively. The pipelay Bridge agreed to attempt to minimize thruster wash.

Recommendations

To prevent similar incidents in the future and enhance the safety of Dynamic Positioning (DP) operations, the following recommendations are made:

  1. Develop and Implement Comprehensive ASOGs:
    • Ensure that Activity Specific Operating Guidelines (ASOGs) are developed for all types of operations, including ship-to-ship cargo transfers. These guidelines should clearly outline the operational limits, environmental conditions, and equipment performance criteria necessary for safe DP operations.
  2. Regular Training and Drills:
    • Conduct regular training sessions and drills for Masters and Dynamic Positioning Operators (DPOs) to familiarize them with the ASOGs and emergency response procedures. This training should also include scenarios that simulate adverse weather conditions and equipment failure.
  3. Enhanced Communication Protocols:
    • Establish clear communication protocols between vessels engaged in operations. This includes predefined signals and procedures for reporting changes in environmental conditions, vessel position, and equipment performance. All partners should be briefed on these protocols prior to commencing operations.
  4. Monitoring Weather Conditions:
    • Utilize advanced weather monitoring systems to provide real-time updates on wind and swell conditions. This information should be continuously monitored during operations, and if conditions worsen, operations should be re-evaluated and potentially halted.
  5. Regular Maintenance and Checks:
    • Implement a rigorous maintenance schedule for all DP equipment, especially thrusters and propulsion systems. Regular checks should be conducted to ensure all equipment is functioning optimally, and any deficiencies should be addressed immediately.
  6. Empower Decision-Making:
    • Encourage a culture where Masters and DPOs feel empowered to halt operations without fear of repercussions when safety limits are reached. Establish protocols that support their decisions and provide back-up for stopping a job when necessary.
  7. Review and Learn from Incidents:
    • Conduct thorough investigations of all DP incidents, regardless of their outcomes. Use findings to update ASOGs and training programs. Encourage a system of continuous learning and improvement within the organization.
  8. Partner Engagement:
    • Involve all relevant partners in the development of ASOGs, including vessel owners, operators, and clients. This collaborative approach will ensure that the guidelines are practical, comprehensive, and widely accepted.

Conclusion

The incident involving the DP pipe supply vessel (PSV) underscores the critical importance of adhering to established operational limits and ensuring that adequate safety measures are in place during DP operations. By implementing the recommendations.

Abone ol

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