4.1 Before every DP operation, the DP system should be checked according to
applicable vessel specific location checklist(s) and other decision support tools
such as ASOG in order to make sure that the DP system is functioning correctly and
that the system has been set up for the appropriate mode of operation.
4.2 During DP operations, the system should be checked at regular intervals according
to the applicable vessel-specific watchkeeping checklist.
4.3 DP operations necessitating equipment class 2 or 3 should be
terminated when the environmental conditions (e.g. wind, waves, current, etc.) are
such that the DP vessel will no longer be able to keep position if the single
failure criterion applicable to the equipment class should occur. In this context,
deterioration of environmental conditions and the necessary time to safely terminate
the operation should also be taken into consideration. This should be checked by way
of environmental envelopes if operating in equipment class 1 and by way of an
automatic means (e.g. consequence analysis) if operating in equipment class 2 or
3.
4.4 The necessary operating instructions should be kept on board.
4.5 DP capability polar plots should be produced to demonstrate position keeping
capacity for fully operational and post worst-case single failure conditions. The
capability plots should represent the environmental conditions in the area of
operation and the mission-specific operational condition of the vessel.
4.6 The following checklists, test procedures, trials and instructions should be
incorporated into the vessel-specific DP operations manuals:
-
.1 location checklist (see paragraph 4.1);
-
.2 watchkeeping checklist (see paragraph 4.2);
-
.3 DP operating instructions (see paragraph 4.4);
-
.4 annual tests and procedures (see paragraph 5.1.1.3);
-
.5 initial and periodical (5-year) tests and procedures (see paragraphs
5.1.1.1 and 5.1.1.2);
-
.6 examples of tests and procedures after modifications and non-conformities
(see paragraph 5.1.1.4);
-
.7 blackout recovery procedure;
-
.8 list of critical components;
-
.9 examples of operating modes;
-
.10 decision support tools such as ASOG; and
-
.11 capability plots (see paragraph 4.5).