F(P)SO HEADING CONTROL GUIDELINES

The present information paper was officially released by OCIMF with the ultimate goal to provide necessary information on the heading control on the FPSOs, standing for the floating production, storage and offloading units. It shall be used in with, and supplement, the main documents governing the heading control. The recommendations contained in the document pertain to the safe management of the control operations.

Such operation normally takes place in order to allow for the installation and survey activities, as well as the necessary technical maintenance works. It is a common mistake to underestimate the bollard pull that would be required to safely and effectively maintain the heading, and this can eventually result in the unwanted position loss. In addition, more attention shall be paid to the operational limits.

The analysis of the numerous incidents involving the loss of heading control shows that the crew members are not sufficiently aware of the risks, and these guidelines, when properly applied, will contribute in the increase of the awareness. The content of the publication shall be conveyed to the personnel directly engaged in handling the FPSOs and proper understanding of all provisions shall be ensured.