IMCA Publishes Guidance on Simulator Usage

Simulators are used for many purposes in the offshore industry such as for work planning/mission planning purposes including engineering development, procedure development, technical assessments, research, and asset risk assessment. Importantly too they are used in the training environment and as part of competence assessments where they enable measurable assessment of individuals in training to be undertaken.

It is particularly with training and competence assessment in mind that the International Marine Contractors Association (IMCA) (Booth S16 at OTC 2015) has produced the fourth revision of ‘Guidance on the use of simulators’ (IMCA C 014).

“This revision sets out a template for assessment on ROV simulators either within the training environment, or where the focus may more be on periodic drills and practice exercises designed to reduce skill fade,” explains Jane Bugler, IMCA’s Technical Director. “It is designed to complement the three grades of pilot technician set out in IMCA C 005 ‘Guidance document and competence tables: Remote Systems & ROV Division’ but with added criteria for co-pilot/observer.”

‘Guidance on the Use of Simulators’ was first published in 2010 and then updated in August 2011, June 2012 and September 2013. The front section of the updated guidance covers general issues such as definitions, the types of simulator and their appropriateness for training and competence assessment purposes.  Extensive appendices look at Dive Control Simulators, DP Simulators; and Offshore Crane Simulators in addition to the updated section on ROV Simulators.

The guidance document can be downloaded free of charge from the IMCA website by members and non-members alike, and printed copies are available for £5 for members; and £10 for nonmembers.