The US Coast Guard revised its Navigation and Vessel Inspection Circular (NVIC) entitled ‘Approval of Navigation Equipment for Ships by adding an approval process (series) for the Bridge Navigational Watch Alarm System (BNWAS) and updating various approval series to reflect the most applicable standards, resolutions, and processes.
In particular, the circular describes a voluntary process for equipment manufacturers, who choose to have their products type-approved by USCG. Owners and operators of US vessels and Coast Guard officers in charge, Marine Inspection should note, however, that SOLAS and various US regulations require ships engaged on international voyages to be equipped with type approved navigation equipment and its compliance be verified by Coast Guard personnel and/or foreign port state control authorities of states party to SOLAS. Internet release is authorized.
Further details may be found by reading the full circular: