Overview
IEC 62616:2010 specifies minimum performance requirements, technical characteristics, testing methods and required test results for a Bridge Navigational Watch Alarm System (BNWAS). Published by the IEC for compliance with SOLAS Chapter V, this standard defines how a BNWAS must monitor bridge activity and detect Officer of the Watch (OOW) disability, initiate alarms, and provide emergency call/transfer functions. The edition includes the July 2012 corrigendum and is associated with IEC 60945.
Key topics and technical requirements
- Purpose: Monitor bridge activity to detect OOW incapacity and automatically alert the Master or backup OOW.
- Operational modes:
- Automatic (activated with heading/track control systems)
- Manual ON (always active)
- Manual OFF (deactivated)
- Note: Automatic mode may not be suitable for ships required to keep BNWAS active whenever underway.
- Alarm sequence and timing:
- Dormant period (Td): selectable between 3 and 12 minutes.
- At end of Td → visual indication on bridge.
- If not reset: first-stage bridge audible alarm after ~15 s.
- If still not reset: second-stage remote audible alarm (Master/back-up) after another ~15 s (~30 s total).
- If still not reset: third-stage remote alarm follows after approximately 2 minutes (per standard alarm sequence).
- Reset and emergency features: Reset function descriptions, initiation methods, and an emergency call facility and alarm transfer mechanism are specified.
- Performance and safety: Requirements for accuracy, security, malfunction handling, audible/visual indications and ergonomic controls.
- Design, installation and interfacing: Physical integrity, power supply, installation documentation and digital interfaces (e.g., IEC 61162) are covered.
- Testing: Detailed methods of testing and required test results for operational modes, alarms, interfaces, power and documentation.
Applications and users
IEC 62616 is essential for:
- Shipowners and operators ensuring SOLAS compliance
- Shipyards and system integrators installing bridge equipment
- Marine electronics manufacturers designing BNWAS or integrated bridge systems (radar, ECDIS)
- Classification societies, flag state authorities and surveyors validating installations
- Maritime safety officers and technical procurement teams specifying alarm system performance
Related standards and references
- IEC 60945 - general maritime equipment requirements
- IEC 61162 (all parts) - digital interfaces for shipborne equipment
- IEC 62288 - presentation of navigation information
- IMO resolutions: A.694(17), A.813(19), A.830(19) and MSC.128(75) (BNWAS performance recommendation)
Keywords: IEC 62616, BNWAS, Bridge Navigational Watch Alarm System, SOLAS, maritime safety, bridge alarm, officer of the watch, marine standards, alarm sequence.
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