BNWAS

BNWAS is a safety system designed to monitor the alertness of the officer on watch and ensure continuous presence on the bridge. It operates by requiring the officer to acknowledge the system at regular intervals. If no response is given within the preset time, the system activates a series of alarms, first on the bridge and then in crew areas, to alert others and prevent accidents caused by fatigue or incapacitation. BNWAS is mandatory on many vessels under SOLAS regulations and plays a critical role in maintaining navigational safety.

Furuno BR500

Reliably monitor the Watch Officer's presence for maritime casualty avoidance

The Furuno BR500 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 (i.e.: ECDIS, Radar, etc.) at certain preset intervals. If the officer fails to press the button, operate connected equipment or trigger optional motion sensors within preset intervals, visual and audible alarms will be generated in the wheelhouse. If the officer doesn't respond to the alarm, the BR500 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.