IMO MSC.86 (May 2009) decided to make the BNWAS mandatory for all shipsof 150 GT and upwards, engaged in international voyage, and passengerships irrespective of size, constructed on or after 1 July 2011, alsoengaged in international voyage, shall be fitted with the BNWAS whichshall be in operation when the ship is underway at sea.
Ships constructed prior to 1st July 2011 will have to retrofit the BNWAS by the 1st survey after that date.
The purpose of BNWAS (Bridge Navigational Watch Alarm System) is tomonitor bridge activity and detect operator disability which could leadto marine accidents.
BNWAS monitors the watch officer`s presence through watch safety system functions.
A watch officer is required to press the button on a Timer Reset Panelor to operate navigation equipment (e.g. ECDIS, Radar, etc.) at certainintervals.
When the officer fails to press the button within pre-set intervals,visual and audible alarms will be generated in the wheelhouse.
If the officer doesn`t respond to the alarm, the system transfers thealarm to the Cabin Panels installed in other sections of the vessel inorder to inform backup officers of the watch officer`s incapacity.