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.