BMM 4.3 — Bridge Watchkeeping Underway

Purpose

Standardize safe bridge watchkeeping practices in accordance with COLREGs and company BRM principles.

Scope

All vessels while underway, including pilotage and restricted visibility.

Responsibilities

• Master — sets watch schedule and standing orders; monitors compliance.
• OOW — maintains continuous, effective lookout by sight, hearing, and all available means.
• Lookout/Helmsman — supports OOW per bridge manning level.

Procedure

1. Lookout & BRM — maintain situational awareness; share intentions; closed-loop communication.
2. COLREGs — apply safe speed, risk of collision assessment, and proper action early and substantial.
3. Navigation Monitoring — cross-check ECDIS, radar, visual bearings; monitor XTE/CPA/TCPA.
4. Alarms & Limits — monitor off-course, depth, guard zones; update as conditions change.
5. Reporting — log significant events, course/speed alterations, weather, and defects.
6. Handover — formal watch handover using company checklist.

Acceptance Criteria

No near misses due to situational awareness loss; logs complete; alarms monitored and acknowledged appropriately.