FURUNO BR 500 & 1000 BNWAS
: FURUNO BR 500 & 1000 BNWAS
FURUNO BR 500 & 1000 BNWAS
Implementation Schedule
IMO MSC.86 (May 2009) decided to make the BNWAS mandatory for all ships of 150 GT and upwards, engaged in international voyage, and passenger ships irrespective of size, constructed on or after 1 July 2011, also engaged in international voyage, shall be fitted with the BNWAS which shall 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.
BNWAS Overview
The purpose of BNWAS (Bridge Navigational Watch Alarm System) is to monitor bridge activity and detect operator disability which could lead to 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 Panel or to operate navigation equipment (e.g. ECDIS, Radar, etc.) at certain intervals.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 the alarm to the Cabin Panels installed in other sections of the vessel in order to inform backup officers of the watch officer’s incapacity.
Timer reset function and Visual indication
The timer reset may be facilitated by one of following means:
- Pressing the reset button on the Main Panel/Timer Reset Panel
- Provoking the motion sensor
- Initiate operation of various navigation equipment
It is important to keep in mind when planning a BNWAS installation that the external devises, which can act as reset devises, need to be located in position where proper lookout can be done by the watch officer.
For the motion sensor, it is critical to locate it in such a way that it cannot be activated by the ships movements. Thus, any curtains present on the bridge deck should not come in the way of the sensor.
For first line of alert, in accordance with IMO Res. MSC.128(75), sufficient number of visual indications (flashing lights) are to be installed and connected.The visual indications should be visible from all operational positions within the bridge where the OOW (Officer of the Watch) may be stationed to perform his duties. These positions are made up by, but not limited to, Conning work station, Navigation support work station, steering work station and 2 x docking work stations