Inadequate communication and planning causes fouled thruster
- DP Event
- Published on 29 March 2017
- Generated on 22 February 2025
- DPE 01/17
- 1 minute read
Undesired event
They did not realise they were isolating the opposite thruster and consequently the thruster closest to the lay chute was still running.
Comments
During the over boarding of the end termination through the starboard aft chute, the cable laying shift supervisor asked the bridge to isolate thruster No.5 (port quarter) instead of thruster No.6 (starboard quarter).
They did not realise they were isolating the opposite thruster and consequently the thruster closest to the lay chute was still running. Moreover, they asked the bridge to move backwards and in the same direction where the end termination was being laid down. This movement contributed to the end termination deployment rope fouling thruster No.6.
Considerations
- There was either a lack of operational planning or it was inadequate.
- The event highlights the need for accurate and verified communication between key control centres.
- With three satellite derived position systems on line and the acoustic system on standby the vessel was not complying with the requirements of IMO Circular 645.
Latest DP incidents
-
Thorough preparation is key
With 4 of 8 diesel generators running and connected to a closed ring bus, and 7 of the 8 thrusters selected to DP, a DP equipment class 3 MODU was set up in Green mode whilst on standby.
DPE 03/24
5 November 2024
Incident
-
There – but not really there
This DP event occurred on a DP equipment class two supply vessel whilst carrying out cargo operations on the starboard side alongside the asset and working at the lee side in the drift-off position.
DPE 03/24
5 November 2024
Incident
-
Equipment Class 3, even if you operate as 'Class 2'
This case study examines a DP incident on an equipment class 3 multi-purpose vessel while operating in good conditions.
DPE 03/24
5 November 2024
Incident
-
Line of sight
This case study covers events onboard a DP equipment class 2 vessel whilst holding position in a turbine field, with three position reference systems selected into DP – DGPS, HPR and Fanbeam.
DPE 03/24
5 November 2024
Incident
-
DP Drill Scenario
DP emergency drill scenarios are included to assist DP vessel management, DPOs / Engineers, and ETOs in conducting DP drills onboard.
DPE 03/24
5 November 2024
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.