IEC 62923-2:2018

Overview

IEC 62923-2:2018 is an international standard published by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). This standard focuses on maritime navigation and radiocommunication equipment and systems, specifically addressing bridge alert management by defining standard alert identifiers and reserved cluster identifiers. The main goal of IEC 62923-2:2018 is to harmonize and reduce the variety of identifiers used for similar alerts, thereby streamlining alert communication and improving safety and efficiency on maritime vessel bridges.

By specifying machine-readable alert identifiers and reserved cluster identifiers, IEC 62923-2:2018 supports standardized processing, display, and transfer of alerts between systems. The standard complements IEC 62923-1 and is widely referenced in other maritime and navigation standards to ensure consistency in bridge alert management.

Key Topics

• Standard Alert Identifiers:
  The standard defines a comprehensive list of alert identifiers, ensuring that similar alerts across different equipment are represented consistently. This harmonization improves operator awareness and reduces confusion during critical situations.

• Reserved Cluster Identifiers:
  IEC 62923-2:2018 introduces reserved cluster identifiers for grouping related alerts, such as navigation, communication, automation, cargo, safety/security, and more. This grouping helps operators and systems manage and prioritize alerts efficiently.

• Machine-Readable Coding:
  Alert and cluster identifiers are designed for machine readability, facilitating efficient electronic communication, processing, and integration with other bridge systems.

• Requirement for Manufacturers:
  Equipment manufacturers must assign the correct identifiers for predefined alerts and document all alerts and clusters present in their equipment. If an alert is not listed in the standard, manufacturers must assign identifiers in the designated generic range.

• Testing and Compliance:
  The standard sets out clear methods for verifying that equipment uses the correct identifiers and that alerts are displayed and transmitted as specified, supporting effective compliance and system interoperability.

Applications

The practical applications of IEC 62923-2:2018 span a wide range of maritime environments and equipment, including:

• Vessel Bridges:
  Ensures that all bridge systems (navigation, communication, safety, automation) use standardized alert identifiers, improving clarity for watchkeepers and operators.

• Integrated Navigation Systems (INS):
  Facilitates consistent alert sharing across integrated systems, enhancing situational awareness and response coordination.

• System Interoperability:
  Simplifies integration between devices from different manufacturers by using standardized alert codes, facilitating smoother equipment upgrades and replacement.

• Regulatory Compliance:
  Helps shipowners, operators, and equipment suppliers meet IMO and SOLAS requirements related to bridge alert management and maritime safety.

• Safety and Emergency Response:
  By reducing ambiguity in alert identification and clustering, the standard directly supports faster and more reliable emergency responses, crucial for preventing incidents at sea.

Related Standards

For full effectiveness, IEC 62923-2:2018 should be implemented alongside related standards, including:

• IEC 62923-1: Maritime navigation and radiocommunication equipment and systems – Bridge alert management – Part 1: Operational and performance requirements, methods of testing and required test results
• IEC 61924-2: Integrated navigation systems – Operational and performance requirements
• IMO SOLAS: International Convention for Safety of Life at Sea
• IMO A.1021(26): Code on Alerts and Indicators
• IMO MSC.252(83): Performance standards for integrated navigation systems (INS)

By harmonizing alert and cluster identifiers as defined in IEC 62923-2:2018, the maritime industry benefits from enhanced safety, reliability, and interoperability in bridge alert management. The adoption of this standard is essential for modern vessels seeking to comply with international maritime regulations and best practices.