The One-Man Bridge – Ulstein Bridge Alarm System

The Maritime Executive brings us news on the type approval by Det Norske Veritas (DNV) class society of the Ulstein Bridge Alarm System(Ulstein BAS).  The system, developed by Ulstein Elektro is specifically designed to enable a near fail-safe, one-man bridge operation through a ladder of alarms or alerts to other qualified navigators, and the master should a situation occur that needs the attention of others. 

Ulstein BAS (Photo courtesy ULSTEIN)

The system also serves as a “dead man” system for the detection of an unattended bridge or incapacitated operator based on interval checking. 

The timing of this approval is interesting given that the operation and manning of cargo ships is in the full spotlight due to piracy.   Critics might argue that with the obvious shortfalls in vessel security, a move towards a one-man bridge operation is a step in the wrong direction. 

The Council of American Master Mariners has also made clear that it opposes a one-man bridge watch currently in effect in some foreign commercial fleets.  The CAMM recommends amendments to international regulations to require an additional watchstander for vessels of 1600 gross tons and larger. 

The Ulstein Design Group is not new to pushing the limits and boundaries of marine design and implementation.  Ulstein is the designer that brought us the Ulstein X-Bow; the revolutionary offshore vessel design that features an inverted bow which is specifically designed to lower fuel consumption and improve handling in heavy sea conditions.