Incident caused by software glitch
- DP Event
- Published on 14 May 2020
- Generated on 22 February 2025
- DPE 02/20
- 1 minute read
Incident
This and similar incidents highlight the need for extensive testing of the software at all stages.
Comments
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
- 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.
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