New Amendments to SOLAS V/19; "BNWAS"

IMO resolution MSC.282(86) amended SOLAS Chapter V by adding two new requirements; "BNWAS" & "ECDIS". The dead line depend upon ship type, gross tonnage and keel laying. In this article, I will be dealing with Bridge Navigational Watch Alarm System (BNWAS).

The purpose of BNWAS is to monitor bridge activity and detect operator disability which can lead to marine accidents. The system alert the Master or another qualified Navigation Officer automatically if for eny reason the Officer on Watch (OOW) becomes incapable to perform his duties. This is achieved by a device with a serie of alarms, movement sensor and indications which are activated to alert in first instance (Pre-Warning) the OOW and, if he/she is not responding, then to alert (Alarm) the Master or another qualified OOW.

Applications Dates:

The system shall comply with following requirements:
 1.- Operational Modes:

• Automtic (Brought into operation whenever the ship is heading or track control system is activated)
• Manual ON (In operation constantly)
• Manual Off (Does not Operate under any circusntances)
• The system shall be provided with safety means to ensure access to control are limit to the Master (Key; Password; ETC)

2.- Sequence of indications and Alarms

• The system should remain counting for a period between 3 to 12 min, prior any indication.
• At the end of the settle period, pre-warning indication (visible only) at the bridge.
• If not reset, after 15 sec (First Stage) alarm shal be activated only in the bridge.
• If not reset, after another 15 sec (Second Stage) a remote audible alarm in the back up officer's and/or Master location shall be activated.
• If not reset, after 90 sec counted from the second 15 sec (third Stage) a remote audible alarm  at the locations of further crew's members shall be activated.
• In vessel other than passengers, the second or third stage alarm sound all at same time, the third stage alarm may be omitted.

3.- Reset Funtions

• Should not be possible to reset or cancel any alarm from any other place than the bridge.
• Should , by a single operator action, cancel the visual and all audible alarms and initiate a new dormant period. If rest is activated before the period is over new dormant period shall initiate.
• To initiate a reset funtion an imput by a single operator (OOW) action is required, it may be generated by a reset device or movement sensors distribiute on bridge.
• Continious activation of reset funtion should not prolong the dormant period.

4.- Emergency Call.

• May be provided to activate second and third stage alarms in case assistance is need on the bridge.

5.- Power Supply:

• From Main and Emegency, with automatic change over.
• Power Failure alarm shall be provided
• Power Failure of any navigational equipment shall not affect to any other piece of navigational equipment.
• Vessel with IBS notation additional power suply shall be provided (UPS)