Installation of Equipment on a Modern Bridge

Planning and Design:

Bridge Layout: Determine the optimal location for equipment installation. Consider factors like
visibility, accessibility, and structural integrity.
Equipment Selection: Choose appropriate navigation and communication equipment based on
the bridge’s purpose (e.g., road, railway, pedestrian).
Safety Assessment: Evaluate potential hazards during installation and operation.
Preparation:
Site Preparation: Clear the installation area and ensure a safe working environment.
Foundation Work: Install foundations or supports for equipment (e.g., radar towers,
communication antennas).
Installation Process:
Navigation Equipment:
Steering Wheel: Install the steering wheel at the bridge control station.
Gyro Repeater: Position gyro repeaters for accurate heading information.
Magnetic Compass: Mount the magnetic compass for backup navigation.
Telegraph: Set up telegraph systems for communication between the bridge and engine room.
Radar: Install radar antennas at suitable heights for optimal coverage.
ARPA (Automatic Radar Plotting Aid): Integrate ARPA for collision avoidance.
SART (Search and Rescue Transponder): Place SART devices for distress signal response.
VHF Radios: Position VHF radios for communication with vessels and other bridges.
Clear View Screen: Set up screens for clear visibility of navigation data.
Anemometer: Install wind speed and direction sensors.
Tachometer: Mount tachometers for engine RPM monitoring.
Rudder Angle Indicator: Display rudder position information.
EPIRB (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon): Install EPIRBs for distress alerts.
Alarm Panel: Set up an alarm panel for critical notifications.
GPS (Global Positioning System): Mount GPS receivers securely for accurate positioning.
Aneroid Barometer: Install barometers for atmospheric pressure readings.
Inclinometer: Position inclinometers to monitor bridge tilt.
Navtex (Navigational Telex): Set up Navtex receivers for weather and navigational warnings.
Fire Detector: Install fire detectors for early fire detection.
General Alarm: Set up an audible alarm system for emergencies.
Echo Sounder: Install echo sounders for water depth measurements.
Course Recorder: Set up course recorders for voyage documentation.
Public Address System: Install PA systems for communication with crew and passengers.
ECDIS (Electronic Chart Display and Information System): Set up ECDIS consoles in the bridge
control room.
VDR (Voyage Data Recorder): Position VDR for recording critical data during voyages.
Bridge Navigational Watch Alarm System: Ensure BNWAS compliance for watchkeeping.
Binoculars: Provide binoculars for visual observation.
Ship Security Alert System: Install SSAS for security-related alerts.
Portable Two-Way VHF GMDSS: Set up portable VHF radios for emergency communication.
INMARSAT C: Install INMARSAT C terminals for satellite communication.
MF / HF RADIO: Set up MF/HF radios for long-range communication.
Chronometer: Position chronometers for accurate timekeeping.
Testing and Commissioning:
Functional Testing: Verify that navigation and communication systems operate correctly.
Integration Testing: Ensure seamless communication between different systems.
Safety Checks: Confirm compliance with safety standards and regulations.
Maintenance and Monitoring:
Regular Inspections: Schedule routine inspections to identify wear, damage, or malfunctions.
Reporting System: Maintain a hazard reporting system for immediate action.
Safety Culture: Foster a safety-conscious environment through open communication, safety
meetings, and recognition of safe practices.
Navigation and Communication practices according to the Bridge Procedures Guide (BPG)
while emphasizing safety culture:

Bridge Procedures Guide (BPG):

The BPG is an International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) publication that reflects Best Practice
aboard merchant ships. It embraces standards and recommendations promoted by the
International Maritime Organization (IMO).
The BPG emphasizes continuous improvement as described in the ISM Code and adheres to the
watchkeeping requirements of STCW Chapter VIII.
Key content chapters include:
Bridge Organization: Determining the composition of the watch, relationships between the
Master and the Bridge Team, and assigning duties within the team.
Passage Planning: Planning a passage from berth-to-berth, considering external factors and
shipboard operations.
Duties of the Officer of the Watch (OOW): Describes the role and priorities of the OOW,
including maintaining a proper lookout.
Operation and Maintenance of Bridge Equipment: Ensures proper functioning of navigation
equipment.
Dynamic Positioning: Relevant for certain vessels.
Maritime Pilotage: Guidelines for working with pilots.
Annexes cover communications, bridge checklists, and emergency procedures.
Clarity of Purpose:
Communicate navigation decisions, including details of the passage plan and how voyage
objectives will be achieved.
Utilize the Safety Management System (SMS), Master’s Standing Orders, briefings, and bridge
orders.
Delegation of Authority:
The Master retains ultimate responsibility but delegates navigation duties to the OOW and pilots.
Handovers must be positive and unambiguous.
Effective Organization:
Rested watchkeepers must be available to meet navigational demands.
Navigation equipment must be properly calibrated, monitored, and cross-checked.
Motivation and Safety Culture:
Foster an atmosphere that encourages safety through good teamwork.
Recognize the strengths and limitations of team members.
We should remember that, safety is paramount throughout the entire process, and adherence to
safety guidelines ensures a culture of safety on construction sites.