Radar is an important tool for the watchkeeper in all conditions of visibility. In addition, when on international voyages they may also required to carry an electronic chart display and information system (ECDIS). However, they must carry a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) receiver or a terrestrial radio-navigation receiver, Automatic Identification System (AIS), Voyage Data Recorder (VDR) or Simplified Voyage Data Recorder (S-VDR), and a bridge navigational watch alarm system (BNWAS). Ships built before 1 July 2002 may continue to comply with the requirements of SOLAS Chapter V/74 in force prior to 2002 Regulations, regarding Signalling Lamps (Reg. The Merchant Shipping (Safety of Navigation) Regulations 2020 (SI 2020/0673) implement the carriage requirements for navigational equipment set out in Regulation 19 of the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS), 1974 Chapter V, a new version of which came in force on 1 July 2002. Provision of navigational equipment on ships In other cases, accidents have occurred where the watchkeeper was found not to be fully familiar with the operation of equipment or its limitations. Watchkeepers must always ensure that positional information is regularly cross checked and verified using other equipment, as well as visual aids to navigation. This amendment contains updates to references, procedures, technology, and terminology which have all developed since the first iteration of this notice.Īccidents have occurred where the primary cause has been found to be over-reliance on a single electronic navigational aid, or over-reliance on electronic aids in general, in lieu of the maintenance of a proper and effective visual lookout.Be aware of the dangers of over-reliance on the output from, and accuracy of, a single navigational aid.Recognise the importance of the correct use of navigational aids and knowledge of their limitations.Appreciate the need to cross check and verify position fixing information using other methods, including non-electronic.Be aware of the factors which can affect the accuracy of electronic position fixing systems.Be aware that each item of equipment is only a navigational aid on board.

This Notice emphasises the need for correct use of electronic navigational equipment by watchkeepers.

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