DP Induction / Basic

The course is theory-based with guided practical exercises that introduce the trainee to various DP operational modes. The topics to be covered in the course includes: General principles of dynamic positioning; The elements of a DP system; Computers and control elements; Position Heading and Wind/environment reference systems; Power generation, distribution and management; DP watch keeping and watch handover procedures, documentation and communications.

On successful completion of the Induction Course and online assessment, the trainee Dynamic Positioning Operator (DPO) will be issued with a Nautical Institute (NI) Dynamic Positioning Operator’s logbook in which attended courses, DP sea time, task completion and Statement of Suitability as a DPO are recorded.

Course Overview

This course provides participants with basic knowledge of Dynamic Positioning (DP), the
principles and practical use of DP systems. This course involves both theory and practice on
a DP simulator. On successful completion of both the Induction Course and Induction online
exam, the trainee DPO will be issued with an NI DP logbook in which the course, DP sea time
and the Statement of Suitability are recorded.

The Course Duration

It is a 5-day course. Around 80% of the time is spent on teaching DP theory and 20% on
practical exercises.

The Course Aims

At the end of the course the participant should:

– Have acquired knowledge of the principles of DP.
– Have acquired a basic understanding of how to set up a DP system.
– Have an understanding of the practical operation of associated equipment, including position reference systems.
– Have an understanding of a typical power and distributions arrangement onboard a DP vessel.
– Be able to recognise the various alarm, warning and information messages.
– Be able to relate the DP installation to the ship system, including (but not limited to) power supply, maneuvering facility, available position reference systems and nature of work.
– Be able to relate DP operations to the existing environmental conditions of wind, sea state, current/tidal stream and vessel movement.
– Be able to understand the arrangements made for DP
Operations in specialist vessels.
– Be able to understand the hazards associated with working close
to an Installation, deep and shallow water operations.