A Look at POSMOOR & a Call To Action
POSMOOR or Position Mooring is a DP function that can automatically reduce the low frequency motion of a moored vessel using thrusters. With tension of the moorings input into the DP desk it can also reduce the tension on any individual mooring down to an acceptable user defined limit. A third use would be to assist with position changes in conjunction with the mooring winches, thus reducing wear on those winches.
This function is typically used onboard deep water drilling platforms & FPSO’s where the vessel can assist on DP after the moorings are set. It can provide a level of redundancy in case of a line break, adjust heading for minimum power consumption or to create a lee as required, & provide the best orientation to reduce vessel motion which in turn can reduce crew fatigue.
The question being raised at the moment is two part:
- Should DP time gained on a POSMOOR vessel count towards a Nautical Institute certificate?
- Should POSMOOR time count towards revalidating an existing certificate?
In the authors opinion the answer is Yes to both. Operation of the DP interface & being comfortable on the desk will carry over to any of the other disciplines. While every operation has its own set of requirements I feel that at the end of the day it is an Operators certificate & operating the desk while assisted by moorings is valid time. We as professional mariners should not be hamstrung by specific endorsements for every different operation.
What are your opinions on the subject; industry wants to know! The DP-TEG is studying this issue right now & will eventually be taking this issue up the ladder so now is the time to make your voice heard.
Please leave comments at the end of this post on the website so they can all be collected at a single point. Your opinion matters so let us know what you think!
