IEC 62616:2010

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.