The International Marine Contractors Association (IMCA), The Marine Technology Society (MTS) Dynamic Positioning Committee, and the Oil Companies International Marine Forum (OCIMF) are pleased to announce the release of JDP01 – A Unified Approach to Verification, Validation, and Assurance of Single Fault Tolerance in DP Systems.
This milestone publication, developed through an unprecedented Joint Development Project (JDP), presents a unified approach on how the global offshore industry can assure DP vessels to be capable of delivering safe, reliable, and environmentally responsible operations with predictable outcomes.
The publication is the result of a collaborative effort among IMCA, MTS DPC, and OCIMF, classification societies, DP assurance providers, vessel operators, and OEMs. The JDP01 publication refocuses the industry on a core principle: proving single fault tolerance (SFT) in absolute terms. Its guidance introduces a comprehensive, transparent framework for assessing redundancy integrity and implementing evidence-based validation into every stage of design, testing, and operation.
The publication will serve as a critical reference for vessel designers, shipyards, assurance providers, charterers, and operators. By bringing together MTS’s academic and technical leadership, IMCA’s contractor-driven focus, and OCIMF’s commitment to operational excellence and safety, this collaboration exemplifies the power of unified action in maritime safety through consistency and standardization.
“This initiative reflects the best of our industry coming together, with purpose, discipline, and vision to address complex safety and environmental challenges,” said Suman Muddusetti, Chairman of the MTS DPC. “With JDP01, we are not only enhancing station-keeping reliability but also supporting the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions enabling confidence in more efficient operational configurations.”
Richard Purser, Technical Adviser – Marine, at IMCA, said: “This new guidance represents a transition from “tick-box” compliance to comprehensive, systems-engineered assurance in DP safety and dependability. It highlights that Single Fault Tolerance is the key to safe DP operations, and that all stakeholders – vessel owners, OEMs, vessel designers, and DP practitioners – have a role to play in ensuring that vessels have single fault tolerance in multiple configurations of DP systems to ensure safe DP operations. We expect this guidance will support standardization across the industry and improve assurance outcomes for all stakeholders.”
The shared dedication of the organisations involved has resulted in a tool that will strengthen safety outcomes, support sustainability objectives, and inspire continued cooperation across the global maritime community.
About OCIMF:
1. Oil Companies International Marine Forum (OCIMF) is a voluntary association of oil companies with an interest in the shipment and terminalling of crude oil, oil products, petrochemicals and gas. OCIMF focuses exclusively on preventing harm to people and the environment by promoting best practice in the design, construction and operation of tankers, barges and offshore vessels and their interfaces with terminals.
2. Download this publication at: https://www.ocimf.org/publications/information-papers/unified-approach-to-verification,-validation-and-assurance-of-single-fault-tolerance-in-dynamic-positioning-systems
Vision
A global marine industry that causes no harm to people or the environment.
Mission
To lead the global marine industry in the promotion of safe and environmentally responsible transportation of crude oil, oil products, petrochemicals and gas, and to drive the same values in the management of related offshore marine operations.
We do this by developing best practices in the design, construction and safe operation of tankers, barges and offshore vessels and their interfaces with terminals and considering human factors in everything we do.
About The International Marine Contractors Association:
The International Marine Contractors Association (IMCA) is the leading trade association representing the offshore marine construction industry worldwide. With over 800 member companies in 65 countries, it represents the vast majority of global marine contractors, as well as energy companies, national regulators, and the supply chain that supports the sector.
IMCA members play a key role in the offshore oil and gas and renewable energy industries through the construction and installation of offshore renewable energy infrastructure and hydrocarbon production facilities, together with the ongoing maintenance of these assets.
IMCA’s mission is to improve safety, efficiency, and performance within the marine contracting industry. To achieve this, it works with members to develop industry-recognised technical standards and codes of practice that have become the benchmarks for safety at work across disciplines including diving, dynamic positioning, lifting and rigging, offshore survey, and remotely operated vehicles.
About the DP Committee of the Marine Technology Society (MTS DPC)
The Dynamic Positioning Committee is one of 15 committees under the umbrella of the Marine Technology Society. MTS was originally formed in June 1963 and creates opportunities through networking, events, mentorship, and career advancement. Its vision is to be the leading authority and advocate for marine technology and resources while promoting member success and public understanding:
The DP Committee was founded in 1996 as a Professional Committee of the Marine Technology Society. An MTS Professional Committee facilitates the exchange and transfer of technical information in a specific subject area among professionals from academia, government, and industry.
The Dynamic Positioning Committee’s mission is to encourage exchange of information, discussion of technology, training, and education, foster improvement of DP reliability, develop guidelines and address any other issues pertinent to dynamic positioning that facilitate incident free execution of DP operations, and are consistent with the objectives of the Marine Technology Society.
To access the publication and learn more about the Organizations visit:
- IMCA: https://www.imca-int.com
- Marine Technology Society: https://dynamic-positioning.com
- OCIMF: https://www.ocimf.org
