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DP incident caused by software glitch

Comments from the report:

The two meters move command was given in two one-meter steps to the DP system by the operator with a time lapse of a few seconds. This was investigated by the DP system vendor and was identified as a software glitch. Two consecutive incremental move commands before the window screen has time to refresh resets the DP system to a zero position automatically. Instructions were put in place on-board this and similar vessels until the vendor remedies the software issue.

Considerations of the IMCA Marine DP Committee from the above event:

  • This and similar incidents highlight the need for extensive testing of the software at all stages;
  • Many vendors continuously update their software with patches, revisions, etc. Vessel operators must ensure a robust management of change (MoC) procedure and suppliers should provide an appropriate rigorous testing program;
  • The DP operator(s) appear to have initially responded well to the incident and this is a credit to their training and competence;
  • Reference IMCA documents Guidance for developing and conducting DP annual trials programmes (IMCA M 190) and Guidance on failure modes and effects analysis (FMEA) (IMCA M 166).

DP Event

Published: 14 May 2020
Download: IMCA DPE 02/20

Classification:
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The following case studies and observations 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 DP technical crew in appropriately determining how to safely conduct their own operations. Any queries should be directed to IMCA at dpreports@imca-int.com. Members and non-members alike are welcome to contact IMCA if they have experienced DP events which can be shared anonymously with the DP industry.

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