International trends on the Integrated Bridge System - Regulations and Recommendations of IMO and Classification Societies on the IBS (Integrated Navigation System (INS))

An Integrated Bridge System (IBS) is not an officially defined term, but a concept of which integrates on a consol at bridge the primary functions of stand-alone navigational aids and communication instruments or of stand-alone units which are integrated i.e. ARPA ECDIS It aims to enable officers on navigational watch to perform their duty without impairing proper lookout. IBS has been taking shape through a rapid development of navigation and communication systems in relation with bridge configuration bridge work station and one man bridge operation system. IBS related matters have been considered for years and is on the agenda of the International Maritime Organization(IMO) for its technical details and safety aspect of possible one-man watchkeeping at night. However IMO has made it clear that human element should be the key factor in considering IBS and single watchkeeping issue. In the development of IBS ergonomic element and human psychological aspect have been more emphasized than technical requirements. This paper refers to documents presented to the IMO and its progress made in various IMO technical meetings on the development of IBS which is perceived as an effective aid to proper bridge lookout and those standards adopted by classification societies on the composition of workstation at bridge in order to identify the international trend on regulating required equipment function of workstation of IBS the regulatory review process and technical recommendations related thereto.