Statutory Alert: Interim guidance on the auto function of bridge navigational watch alarm systems (BNWAS).
23 June, 2014
Applicability: All shipowners and operators
The IMO has issued interim guidance (contained in circular MSC.1/CIR.1474) that the automatic operational mode on bridge navigational watch alarm systems (BNWAS), if available, should not be used.
This is an interim measure pending a revision of the performance standards for BNWAS contained in IMO Resolution MSC.128 (75).
The guidance follows concerns raised over the use of the automatic mode at a meeting of the IMO’s NAV Sub-Committee and the resulting conclusion that the automatic mode is not usable on a ship compliant with the SOLAS Convention.
What to do now
Owners and operators should ensure that masters of ships fitted with a bridge navigational watch alarm system are aware of this information.
For further information
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