Risk-based decision-making support model for offshore dynamic positioning operations. (August 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Hogenboom, Sandra; Vinnem, Jan Erik; Utne, Ingrid B.; Kongsvik, Trond
• Is Part Of: Safety science. Volume 140(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-08
• Subjects: Decision-making -- Cognitive task analysis -- Dynamic positioning; ACTA Applied Cognitive Task Analysis -- CSV Construction Support Vessel -- DP Dynamic Positioning -- DPO Dynamic Positioning Operator -- HMI Human Machine Interface -- HSE Health, Safety, Environment -- HTA Hierarchical Task Analysis -- LOP Loss of Position -- NCS Norwegian Continental Shelf; Industrial accidents -- Periodicals; Accident Prevention -- Periodicals; Safety -- Periodicals; Travail -- Accidents -- Périodiques; 363.11
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ssci.2021.105280
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0925-7535

Abstract

Highlights: Time is critical factor in decision-making for dynamic positioning operations. The decisions to be made by DPOs are similar the consequences of their decisions are not. Operational context is important for how external cues are interpreted. Operator ability to optimize DP performance is constrained by financial pressures, information processing and safety. DP operation specific position-keeping indicators should be highlighted in the HMI design. Abstract: A Dynamic Positioning (DP) system enables vessels and rigs to accurately maintain a predetermined position and heading or track. It enables precise operations under harsh environmental conditions. DP is used for a variety of purposes; however, the role of the DP operator (DPO) is considered the same regardless of type of operation: to monitor and keep the vessel in position. Some of the decisions that the DPO makes are safety critical, for example, decisions about the set-up of the system can prevent the vessel from colliding with an offshore oil and gas platform. Applied cognitive task analysis (ACTA) is performed to analyze how the different operational settings influence the role and decision-making of the DPO. Two DPOs with experience from five different operation types were interviewed. The results from the ACTA for the different operation types are compared with respect to technical steps, cues, the cognitive steps and components, actions, and decisions. The contextual factors are evaluated using an adapted version of Rasmussen's dynamic safety model. The results of the comparison are used to evaluate the current role of the DPO, in light of the DP system and different DP operations. Recommendations for the improvement of safety, the design of the DP system, training and set-up of DP operations are formulated.