DPO Building Codes & Standards 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which IMO document provides the primary guidelines for dynamic positioning systems on offshore vessels?
- MSC/Circ.645 (Correct answer)
- SOLAS Chapter V
- MARPOL Annex I
- ISM Code Part B
Correct answer: MSC/Circ.645
IMO MSC/Circ.645 'Guidelines for Vessels with Dynamic Positioning Systems' is the foundational IMO guidance document for DP systems.
Question 2: According to IMCA M 103, DP Equipment Class 2 requires that a single failure shall not result in:
- Loss of position (Correct answer)
- Increased fuel consumption
- Reduced thruster RPM
- Alarm activation
Correct answer: Loss of position
IMCA M 103 defines DP Class 2 such that no single failure of an active component or system shall cause loss of position.
Question 3: The IMCA document M 190 addresses which aspect of DP operations?
- Guidance on the use of FMEA (Correct answer)
- Thruster maintenance intervals
- Bridge watch-keeping hours
- Mooring line load limits
Correct answer: Guidance on the use of FMEA
IMCA M 190 provides guidance on failure mode and effects analysis (FMEA) for DP systems.
Question 4: Under DNV class notation DYNPOS-AUTRO, which redundancy level is represented?
- Equipment Class 3 with redundant systems plus fire/flood protection (Correct answer)
- Equipment Class 1 with single DP computer
- Equipment Class 2 with no redundant power
- Equipment Class 2 with shared thruster buses
Correct answer: Equipment Class 3 with redundant systems plus fire/flood protection
DYNPOS-AUTRO corresponds to DP Equipment Class 3, requiring redundant systems protected against fire and flooding.
Question 5: Which standard defines the competence requirements for a Senior Dynamic Positioning Operator (DPO)?
- IMCA C 002 (Correct answer)
- IEC 61511
- ISO 9001
- ABS Part 4
Correct answer: IMCA C 002
IMCA C 002 specifies the training, certification, and competence framework for DP operators including Senior DPO requirements.
Question 6: Per IEC 61162, what does this standard series govern in the context of DP vessels?
- Digital interfaces for maritime navigation and radio-communication equipment (Correct answer)
- Thruster mechanical design tolerances
- Fire suppression system activation codes
- Hull structural load calculations
Correct answer: Digital interfaces for maritime navigation and radio-communication equipment
IEC 61162 covers digital interfaces between maritime navigation and radio-communication equipment, including sensors feeding DP systems.
Question 7: IMCA M 109 provides guidance specifically on:
- Maintaining the integrity of DP system components (Correct answer)
- Calculating maximum allowable thrust
- Anchor pattern design for DP vessels
- Crew certification renewal intervals
Correct answer: Maintaining the integrity of DP system components
IMCA M 109 'DP Vessel Design Philosophy: Guidelines' addresses maintaining the integrity of the DP system and its components throughout the vessel's life.
DPO Building Codes & Standards 2
Which IMO document provides the primary guidelines for dynamic positioning systems on offshore vessels?