Bridge Navigational Watch Alarm System

History:

The Bridge Navigational Watch Alarm System (BNWAS) is a relatively modern

development in maritime technology, primarily aimed at enhancing safety during
navigational watchkeeping. Its history can be traced back to the late 20th century:

Late 20th Century:

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) recognized the need for improved safety
measures to prevent accidents caused by human error during watchkeeping onboard
ships.
Discussions and research began on the implementation of an automated alarm system that
would monitor bridge activities and alert the crew in case of incapacitation or negligence.

Early 21st Century:

In 2006, the IMO adopted amendments to the International Convention for the Safety of
Life at Sea (SOLAS) requiring the installation of BNWAS on certain types of vessels.
These regulations aimed to mitigate risks associated with watchkeeping, such as fatigue,
distraction, and medical emergencies, by ensuring continuous monitoring and alerting
mechanisms on the bridge.

Use for Maritime:

The BNWAS serves several critical functions in maritime operations, primarily focused
on enhancing safety and operational efficiency:

Continuous Monitoring:

The primary function of the BNWAS is to continuously monitor bridge activities,

including the presence and alertness of the officer on watch (OOW).
It ensures that there is always a vigilant crew member present on the bridge to oversee
navigation, communication, and collision avoidance.

Alerting System:

The BNWAS features an automated alarm system that activates if the OOW becomes
incapacitated, falls asleep, or fails to reset the system within a predefined interval.
The alarm alerts other crew members or officers, prompting them to investigate the
situation and take appropriate action to prevent accidents or navigational errors.

Emergency Response:

In the event of an emergency or critical situation requiring immediate intervention, the

BNWAS can serve as an additional means of alerting the crew and initiating emergency
procedures.
It ensures a timely response to potential threats, such as approaching vessels, navigational
hazards, or adverse weather conditions.

Regulatory Compliance:

The installation and use of BNWAS are mandatory for certain categories of vessels as per
SOLAS regulations.
Compliance with these regulations demonstrates a commitment to safety and adherence
to international standards for maritime operations.
Functions:

Watchkeeping Monitoring:

The BNWAS continuously monitors the presence and activity of the OOW on the bridge
through sensors or motion detectors.
It detects any prolonged absence or lack of interaction with the system, triggering an
alarm to alert the crew.

Alarm Activation:

If the system detects a potential risk due to the absence or inactivity of the OOW, it
activates an alarm, typically consisting of audible and visual alerts.
The alarm signals the need for immediate attention and intervention to prevent
navigational errors or accidents.

Override and Reset Mechanism:

The BNWAS allows for manual override and reset by the OOW to acknowledge the
alarm and confirm their alertness.
Failure to reset the system within the specified timeframe results in escalating alarm
signals or notification to other crew members.

Integration with Bridge Systems:

Modern BNWAS systems may integrate with other bridge equipment, such as radar,
GPS, and electronic chart displays, to enhance monitoring capabilities and situational
awareness.
Integration facilitates more comprehensive monitoring and alerting functionalities
tailored to specific navigational scenarios.

In summary, the Bridge Navigational Watch Alarm System (BNWAS) represents a

crucial advancement in maritime safety technology, designed to mitigate risks associated
with human error during watchkeeping. Its implementation and adherence to regulatory
standards contribute to safer navigation and operational practices across the maritime
industry.