Bridge Navigational Watch Alarm System Services Providers

The Bridge Navigational Watch Alarm System (BNWAS) keeps the officer of the watch alert. The system asks for a button press at set intervals. If the press is missed, an alarm sounds on the bridge. If there is still no response, the alarm escalates to the master's cabin and then to the other crew. 

SOLAS made BNWAS mandatory on most vessels above 150 GT in 2014. A unit that fails its annual test holds the ship in port. Bridge Navigational Watch Alarm System services providers keep these units tested, certified, and survey-ready. RecordsMarine's directory lists vetted technicians by different parameters.

What a Service Visit Covers

Most service visits include the same checks:

• Annual class survey testing
• Reset interval verification (3 to 12 minute settings)
• Motion sensor calibration
• Wiring continuity to all alarm output points
• Battery and backup power tests
• Software and firmware updates
• Integration checks with VDR, GPS, and the bridge alarm panel
• Fault diagnosis after a malfunction
• Replacement of failed reset buttons, motion sensors, or controllers.

A working unit usually takes two to four hours to test. BNWAS service providers allow longer when faults are found or parts need replacement.

When Crews Call for Service

Service calls follow common patterns:

• Reset alarms trigger at the wrong intervals. 
• Motion sensors fail to detect the bridge crew. 
• Cabin alarms stay silent during a test. 
• The unit drops its connection to the GPS or VDR. 
• Test certificates expire before the annual survey. 

Each fault has a typical cause. Timer faults usually need a controller replacement. Motion sensor problems are often due to dust or alignment. Escalation failures point to wiring or speakers. Bridge Navigational Watch Alarm System services providers handle all of these on a single visit when symptoms are reported in advance.

Brand Coverage Matters

The market splits across Daniamant, Furuno, JRC, Tokyo Keiki, McMurdo, and Marine Technologies. 

Daniamant leads in Europe. Furuno and JRC dominate Japanese-built ships. 

Each brand uses its own service software and reset codes. A technician trained on Daniamant cannot service Furuno hardware without separate certification. 

When booking, name the model fitted to the ship. Confirm the service providers you choose are certified on that model. Generic experience often covers only one or two brands.

Class Survey Timing

BNWAS testing is part of the annual safety equipment survey under SOLAS. Surveyors check reset intervals, the escalation chain, and any modifications. The report must confirm performance against IMO MSC.128(75) and IEC 62616 standards. Some flag states require additional documentation. Book the service one to two weeks before the survey. This leaves time to clear faults without rushing parts orders.

How to Choose a BNWAS ServiceProvider

A failed BNWAS at survey time delays departure. A poorly tested unit at sea leaves the bridge unsupervised if the OOW becomes incapacitated. Before booking, confirm:

• Manufacturer training on your specific BNWAS model
• IEC 62616 testing capability with calibrated equipment
• Class society acceptance of test reports
• Mobile attendance in your trading region
• Spare reset buttons, controllers, and motion sensors are carried on the van
• Emergency response time is stated in writing

Frequently Asked Questions

Does BNWAS need to be active in the port?

No. SOLAS requires BNWAS to be active during navigation only. Most masters switch it off at berth or anchor with the ship secured. The unit logs every activation and deactivation for survey verification.

Can the master change the reset interval?

The interval is settable between 3 and 12 minutes. Most installations are locked behind a maintenance code held by the service provider. The class also requires that the chosen setting be recorded in the safety management system.

What happens if the BNWAS fails during a voyage?

Two officers must man the bridge until repair. Log the fault in the deck log, and book a service attendance at the next port.

Find BNWAS Service Providers Near You

The directory below sorts technicians by region and brand certification. Match the engineer's training to the BNWAS model fitted to your ship before booking. Generic experience often falls short on brand-specific calibration menus.