Nov 23 2010
Uni-Safe Electronics has acquired a DNV (Det Norske Veritas) approval for its BW-800 bridge navigational watch alarm system (BNWAS). BW-800 adheres to the IMO: MSC.128 (75) regulations, and also the new IEC 62616 performance standards introduced in February 2010.
The company has provided more than 800 BNWAS systems. At present it is extending its agent’s network throughout the world, and is also trying to locate business partners to project the BW-800 system as the most preferred BNWAS brand globally.
UnisafeBW-800
As per the new regulations enforced by the IMO’s Maritime Safety Committee (MSC), both the new ships over 150 gt, and new passenger ships have to be outfitted with a BNWAS from July 1st 2011, chiefly for monitoring bridge activity, and sensing operator incapacity, which could cause marine accidents. This system will observe the Officer of the Watch (OOW), and immediately warn either the Captain or another OOW if there is a problem because of which the OOW is not able to perform his duties.
The BW-800 incorporates one motion sensor and sometimes up to three motion sensors, contingent on the size and design of the bridge. These sensors help in detecting motion on the bridge, and also reset the BNWAS’ internal timer installed to reduce the strain and tension felt by the OOW, eliminating the need for retuning or resetting the alarm system every three minutes, as long as the OOW remains mobile every now and then on the bridge. To ensure safety, Uni-Safe has selected a dual motion sensor with microwave and Infrared detection capabilities, so that a non human movement or action would not reset the timer.
The system also comes with an Emergency Call Provision. If assistance is required by the OOW on the bridge, he can use the BW-800’s emergency call facility. If its reset unit is operated for more than 2 seconds, a backup officer is alerted without delay. Uni-Safe, based in London, manufactures and sells Brovagtalarmsystems and Salinometres along with other safety and communication equipment.