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Contact the DQM Center for questions about DPIP requirements, computation method approval, or plan modifications.
Dredge Plant Instrumentation Plan (DPIP)
The DPIP is the contractor-authored document that describes how a dredge plant's sensors, data systems, and quality-control procedures work together to produce the telemetry submitted to DQM. Every dredge plant operating under a USACE contract must have a current DPIP on file with the DQM Center, with a second copy kept on board the vessel and accessible to Government personnel at all times.
The plan covers sensor specifications, system configuration, data collection and transmission procedures, quality control, calibration and repair practices, computed-data equations, and a rolling three-year sensor maintenance log. Any modifications submitted after the original plan — and any changes to computation methods — must be reviewed by the DQM Center before they take effect.
What is the DPIP?
The Dredge Plant Instrumentation Plan is a plant-specific document that captures how data will be collected, managed, and reported to ensure quality and compliance with DQM requirements.
A digital copy of the Dredge Plant Instrumentation Plan (DPIP) must be on file with the DQM Center. While working on site, the contractor will also maintain on the dredge a copy of the DPIP, which is easily accessible to Government personnel at all times.
Prior to the start of work, any addendum or modifications made to the plan after its original submission must be submitted to the DQM Center. Any changes to the computation methods must be approved by the DQM Center prior to their implementation.
Required Contents
Follow the plant type specific guide for exact requirements however all DPIP must include:
- Plant Characteristics — dimensions, operating ranges and capabilities of the dredge plant
- Contact Information — designated points of contact for various functions related to the dredge plant
- Sensors used — type, make, model, and location of all sensors installed on the dredge plant
- System configuration — hardware layout, wiring, and data flow from sensor to transmission
- Data collection procedures — how sensor data are sampled, averaged, and compiled
- Quality control — how quality control on the data will be performed, including validation and error checking
- Calibration and repair — procedures for calibrating sensors and repairing or replacing equipment if it fails
- Computed data — a description of all dredge-specific computed data and the equations used
- Data transmission — how sensor data will be transmitted to the DQM database, including protocols and software used
Sensor Log Requirements
Maintenance history that must be kept in the DPIP
The contractor will keep a log of sensor repairs, replacements, installations, modifications, and calibrations in the dredge's DPIP.
The log must contain a three-year history of sensor maintenance, including:
- The time of sensor failures and subsequent repairs, replacements, installations, modifications, and calibrations
- The time and results of sensor calibrations
- The time of sensor replacements
- The time that backup sensor systems were initiated to provide the required data
- The name of the person responsible for the sensor work
Punch Lists
Guides for creating your DPIP
Resources
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Full Specification
Review the complete DQM specification document for detailed requirements