A designated person ashore (DPA) is a person who has been specifically designated by a shipping company to be the main point of contact between the company and the vessel, and who is responsible for coordinating and communicating the company's safety management system. The DPA is typically an onshore employee of the company, rather than a member of the vessel's crew.
The main duties of a DPA include:
-
Ensuring that the company's safety management system is properly implemented and maintained on board the vessel.
-
Receiving and reviewing reports from the vessel's crew and other relevant parties, and taking appropriate action to address any issues that may arise.
-
Communicating with the vessel's crew and other relevant parties to ensure that the vessel is operating safely and in compliance with all applicable regulations.
-
Coordinating the investigation of any incidents or accidents that may occur on board the vessel, and taking appropriate action to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.
-
Providing guidance and support to the vessel's crew and other relevant parties on matters related to safety and compliance.
-
Maintaining accurate and up-to-date records and documentation related to the vessel and its operations.
-
Representing the company in any interactions with regulatory authorities or other external parties.