BNWAS, B.N.W.A.S., Bridge Navigation Watch Alarm System

BNWAS (Bridge Navigation Watch Safety System) is an alarm/alert system that will sound various alarms on the bridge, as well as in navigator staterooms and living quarters, if it senses inactivity on the bridge for a predetermined period of time. Vessel operational safety is the number one goal of BNWAS.

BNWAS (Bridge Watch Navigation Watch Alarm System) will be required equipment for all IMO vessels, mandated by regulation MSC.128(75). July of 2012 will be the primary fitting date for most vessels (existing passenger vessels and existing cargo vessels of 3000+ GT).

History and Regulatory Background

Developed in response to multiple incidents involving unattended bridge stations, the concept of BNWAS emerged in the early 2000s as part of a wider maritime safety initiative. The International Maritime Organization (IMO) formally introduced BNWAS as part of the SOLAS Convention, Regulation V/19, requiring phased implementation by vessel type and gross tonnage. Since July 2012, compliance has become mandatory for most international vessels.

Innovations in BNWAS Technology

Today’s BNWAS systems are compact, modular, and highly integrated. Innovations include motion detection sensors, RFID crew authentication, integration with voyage data recorders (VDR), and programmable alarm escalation tiers. Newer models support digital communication protocols and can be remotely monitored, enhancing accountability and automation on the bridge.

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