PREAMBLE
1 The Guidelines for vessels with dynamic positioning systems (MSC/Circ.645) were approved by MSC 63 in May 1994 to provide the
industry with an international standard for dynamic positioning systems on all types
of vessels. These Guidelines for new vessels and units with dynamic positioning
systems have been developed to provide an amended standard reflecting the
development in DP operation since 1994 and the current industry practice and DP
technologies.
2 It is recommended that the present Guidelines be applied to vessels and units
constructed on or after 9 June 2017. For vessels and units constructed on or after 1
July 1994 but before 9 June 2017, the previous version of the Guidelines (MSC/Circ.645) may continue to be applied, however it is recommended that
section 4 of the present Guidelines be applied to all new and existing vessels and
units, as appropriate.
3 Taking into account that dynamically positioned vessels are moved and operated
internationally and recognizing that the design and operating criteria require
special consideration, these Guidelines have been developed to facilitate
international operation without having to document the dynamic positioning system in
detail for every new area of operation.
4 Compliance with the Guidelines should be documented by means of a Dynamic
Positioning Verification Acceptance Document (DPVAD) for the dynamic positioning
system.
5 If the Administration exempts any vessel or unit which embodies features of a novel
kind from any of the provisions of these Guidelines, the exemptions should be listed
in the DPVAD.
6 If the Administration approves alternative design and arrangements for any
particular provision of these Guidelines, pertinent technical information about the
approval should be summarized and annexed to the DPVAD.