Bridge Equipment and Watch Keeping (BWK)

Course Topics

DGS EXAMINATION FORMAT

Electronic Systems of Position Fixing

Global Navigation Satellite Systems

Principles, Block Diagram and Working of Global Navigation Satellite System

New Terrestrial Electronic Position Fixing Systems (eLoran)

Global Positioning System (GPS)

Basic Principle of GPS System and DGPS

Errors of GPS and DGPS

Performance Standards for GPS

Electronic Chart Display and Information System (ECDIS)

Introduction to ECDIS

Comparison of ECDIS and Paper Charts

Difference between Raster and Vector Charts

Difference between ECS and ECDIS

Automatic Identification System (AIS)

Purpose of AIS

Information Exchanged and Types of Messages

Ship to Ship Data Exchange

Information Displayed on AIS Screen

Limitations of AIS

Precautions During Use of AIS for Collision Avoidance

Performance Standards for AIS

LRIT (Long Range Identification and Tracking)

Purpose of LRIT

Data Transmitted by LRIT

Authorised ReceiversUsers of LRIT

Difference Between LRIT and AIS

Performance Standards for LRIT

VDR (Voyage Data Recorder)

Concept and Purpose of VDR

Playback Options

Details of Data Recorded on VDR and the Duration of Data Stored

Modules of VDR

Float-Free

S-VDR (Simplified VDR)

Performance Standards for VDR

Echo Sounders and Speed Measurements

Echo Sounders

Basic Principle, Block Diagram and Operation of Echo Sounder

Errors of Echo Sounder

Performance Standards for Echo Sounder

Speed Log

Basic principle of Electro Magnetic Log

Basic Principle of Doppler Speed Logs

Limitations of Speed Logs

Janus configuration

Performance Standards for Speed Log

Compass - Magnetic and Gyro

The Magnetism of the Earth

Magnetic Poles and Variation

The Magnetic Compass

Liquid and Dry Card Magnetic Compass

Binnacle, Lubber line and Ship’s Deviation

The Gyro-Compass

Free Gyroscope

Gyroscopic Inertia and Precession

Tilt and Drift, Damping, North Seeking Ability of Gyro Compass

Basic Knowledge of the Errors of Gyro and Application of Course

Latitude and Speed Errors

Calculation of Gyro Error

Steering Control Systems

Steering Control Systems -1

Operational Procedures

Change Over from Manual to Auto and Vice-Versa

Procedure for Testing of Steering System

Use of Rate of Turn Indicator (ROTI)

Performance Standards for ROTI

The Automatic Pilot

Auto-pilot

Principle and Functions

Auto Pilot Alarms

Various Settings of the Auto-Pilot for Optimal Performance

Performance Standards for Auto Pilot

Course Recorder

Checks and entries on course recorder

Maintain a safe Navigational Watch

Watch-Keeping

Watch-keeping Arrangements and Procedures

Keeping a safe navigational watch

Principles Observed in Keeping a Safe Navigational Watch

Relieving of Duties and Procedure of Taking Over Watches

Action on Receiving Storm Warning

Entries in Logbook

Bridge Manning Levels

Bridge Procedures Guide and its Contents

Keeping an Effective Anchor Watch

Relieving of Duties

Procedure for Taking Over Watches

Action on Receiving Storm Warning -(2)

Entries in Logbook- (2)

Thorough Knowledge of Effective Bridge Team Work Procedures

Maintaining Situational Awareness

Use of Ships Routeing

Effective use of information from navigational equipment

Radar

ARPA

Electronic Position Fixing Systems

ECDIS

Emergency Communication

Use of Reporting Systems

Ship Reporting Systems

VTS Reporting Procedures

Navigational equipment and techniques used for safe navigation in restricted visibility

Parallel Index Technique

Radar Clearing Ranges

Responsibilities

The Conduct of Blind Pilotage

Planning of Blind Pilotage

Content, Application and Intent of COLREG 72

Rules of the Road (First Part)

Introduction and Objectives

Part A – General

Introduction and Objectives-2

Rule 1 Application

Rule 2 Responsibility

Rule 3 General Definitions

Conclusion

Part B – Steering and Sailing rules

Section I (for any condition of visibility)

Introduction and Objectives-3

Rule 4 Application Rule 5 Look-out

Rule 6 Safe speed

Rule 7 Risk of collision

Rule 8 Action to avoid collision

Rule 9 Narrow channels

Rule 10 Traffic separation schemes

Conclusion-2

Section II (for vessels in sight of one another)

Rule 11 Application

Rule 12 Sailing Vessels

Rule 13 Overtaking

Rule 14 Head-on situation

Rule 15 Crossing situation

Rule 16 Action by give-way vessel

Rule 17 Action by stand-on vessel

Rule 18 Responsibilities between vessels

Conclusion-3

Section III (for restricted visibility)

Introduction and Objectives-4

Rule 19 Conduct of vessels in restricted visibility

Rules of the Road (Second Part)

Introduction and Objectives -5

Part C – Lights and Shapes

Introduction and Objectives-5

Rule 20 Application

Rule 21 Definitions

Rule 22 Visibility of lights

Rule 23 Power-driven vessels underway

Rule 24 Towing and pushing

Rule 25 Sailing vessels underway and vessels under oars

Rule 26 Fishing Vessels

Rule 27 Vessels not under command or restricted in their ability to manoeuvre

Rule 28 Vessels constrained by their draught

Rule 29 Pilot vessels

Rule 30 Anchored vessels and vessels aground

Rule 31 Seaplanes

Conclusion-4

Part D – Sound and Light Signals

Introduction and Objectives-6

Rule 32 Definitions

Rule 33 Equipment for sound signals

Rule 34 Manoeuvring and warning signals

Rule 35 Sound signals in restricted visibility

Rule 36 Signals to attract attention and Rule 37 Distress signals

Conclusion-5

Part E - Exemption

Part F Verification of compliance with the provisions of the Convention

COLREG Annexes

Objectives and introduction-7

Annex I

Annex II

Annex III

Annex IV

Conclusion-6

Bridge Resource Management

Allocation, Assignment, and Prioritization of Resources

Effective Communication

Assertiveness and Leadership

Obtaining and Maintaining Situational Awareness

Use of Radar and ARPA to Maintain Safety of Navigation

Fundamental Theory

Fundamental Principles of Radar

Block Diagram

Use of Various Controls

Radar as Range and Bearing Measuring Instrument

Safe Distances - Radar Spares and Magnetic Compasses

Radiation Hazards and Precautions

Radiation Hazard near Antennae and Open Wave-guides

Safety Precautions Necessary in the Vicinity of Open Equipment

Characteristics of Radar Sets

Introduction

Bearing Range Accuracy

HBW and VBW

Pulse Length and Pulse Recurrence Rate

Maximum and Minimum Range of Radar

Range and Bearing Discrimination

Factors External to the Radar set Affecting Radar Detection

Introduction-2

Radar Horizon

Sub Refraction, Super Refraction & Ducting

Effect of Precipitation and Sea on Radar Detection

Faulty Interpretation

Factors that Might Cause Faulty Interpretation

Indirect Echoes and Side Echoes

Multiple Trace or Second Trace Echoes

Setting Up and Maintaining Displays

Function and Adjustment of Controls

Transmitter Controls

Display and Reception Controls

Different Types of Display

Performance Monitor

Measurement of Range and Bearing

Range and Bearing Accuracy

Error in Range and Bearing

Marine Radar Performance Specifications

Performance Standards for Radar Equipment

Limitations of the Radar X-band and S-band

Plotting

Drawing of Relative Motion Triangle and Identification of Various Vectors and Angles

Plotting Devices

Drawing the Relative Motion Triangle on a Plotting Chart

Choosing Vectors for Optimum Efficiency

Advantages and Limitations of Use of Relative and True Vector

Closest Point of Approach (CPA)

CPA, TCPA and Bow Pass

Plotting in Relative and True Presentation

Effect of Course and Speed Changes on the Display

Advantages of Compass Stabilization of a Relative Display

Standardized Report Format and Reporting Procedure -Elements of the Two Parts of a Repott

Use of Trial Manoeuvre and Predictive Motion Vectors

Use of Radar in Navigation

Fixing ship’s position by ranges of two or more points

Obtaining Position Fix by Radar Bearings and Ranges

Possible Errors and Reliability of Fix

Aids to Radar Navigation

Use of Passive (Trails, History) and Active Aids

RACONs

SARTs

AIS Overlay on RadarARPA

Parallel Indexing Technique

Use of Parallel Indexing Technique in Radar Navigation

Wheel Over Positions and Safety Margins

Radar and COLREG 1972

Relationship of COLREG 1972 to the Use of Radar

Lookout, Safe Speed and Plotting of Targets

Actions to be Taken to Avoid Collision in Clear and Bad Visibility Conditions

Review of Plotting Techniques

Introduction and Learning Objectives

Course, Speed, Aspect, CPA and TCPA Determination

Avoiding Actions

Principal ARPA Systems

Vectors (Relative and True)

Digital Read-out

Potential Points of Collision and Areas of Danger

IMO Performance Standards for Automatic Radar Plotting Aids (ARPA)

Requirements for Acquisition and Tracking of Targets

Operation Warnings

Gyro and Log Inputs

Acquisition of Targets

Manual and Automatic Acquisition of Targets

Guard Rings and Guard Zones

Tracking Capabilities and Limitations

Principle of Tracking by ARPA

Target Swap

Processing Delays – Reason for Delay in Display

Setting Up Displays

Optimum Display of Echoes

Use of Echo Referencing in the True Motion Mode

Representation at Target Information-Benefits and Limitations of Operational Warnings

Errors of Interpretation

Lost Target

Incorrect Interpretation of ARPA

Errors in Displayed Data

Errors in Bearing by Backlash and Ship Motion

Errors in Asymmetrical Antenna Beam, Azimuth Quantization

Error Range by Rolling of “Own Ship”

Range Quantization

Effects of Heading and Speed Errors on Derived Information

System Operational Tests Self-diagnostic Routines

Risks of Over-reliance on ARPA

Obtaining Information from ARPA Displays

Critical Targets

Relative and True Course and Speed of Target

CPA and TCPA Targets

Application of COLREG 1972

Analysis of Displayed Situations

Actions to Avoid Close Quarter Situations

Ground Stabilization

Errors Involved in Ground Stabilization

Advantages and Limitations of Ground and Sea Stabilization

Caution to be Taken When Used in Conjunction with Doppler Log (Doppler Feed to ARPA)

Use of ECDIS to Maintain the Safety of Navigation

Capability and Limitations of ECDIS

Electronic Navigational Chart (ENC) Data

Raster charts

Vector charts

The Singapore ENC

Data Accuracy and Presentation Rules

Display Options and Other Chart Data Formats

Dangers of Over Reliance

Functions of ECDIS Required by Performance Standards in Force

Operation, Interpretation, and Analysis of Information Obtained from ECDIS

Use of Functions that are Integrated with Other Navigation Systems in Various Installations

Safe Monitoring and Adjustment of Information

Own Position and Display

Route Monitoring and Custom Information

RADAR and AIS Overlay

Confirmation of Vessel Position by Alternate Means

Efficient Use of Settings to Ensure Conformance to Operational Procedures

Alarm Parameters for Anti-Grounding

Proximity to Contacts and Completeness of Chart Data

Backup Arrangements

Adjustment of Settings and Values to Suit the Present Conditions

Situational Awareness While Using ECDIS

Safe Water and Proximity of Hazards

Set and Drift

Chart Data and Scale Selection

Suitability of Route

Contact Detection and Management

Contingency Plans for Response to Emergencies

Muster List

Duties of Remote Control Operations

Divisions of the Crew into a Command Team, Emergency Team, Back-up Team and Engine Room Team

Essentials of Good Communication between Command team and Emergency teams

Actions to be taken in various emergencies

Measures to be taken in Emergencies for the Protection and Safety of the Ship, Passengers and Crew

Actions to be taken on Stranding

Initial Damage Assessment and Control

Sounding of Compartments

Sounding Depths All Round the Ship Using Hand-Lead

Actions to be Taken Following a Collision

Initial Damage Assessment and Control-2

Stoppage of Engine

Preparing Life Boat

Launching a free-fall lifeboat

Sending Emergency Signal

Precautions for the Protection and Safety of Passengers in Emergency Situations

Warning and Evacuating All Passengers

Taking a Roll Call, Instructing Passengers During Drills and Supply of Blankets

Means of Limiting Damage Following a Fire or Explosion

Cooling of Compartment Boundaries

Inspection for Damage

Procedure for Abandoning Ship

Transmission of Distress Call Until Acknowledged

Extra Food and Blankets

EPIRB, SARTs and Hand Held VHF sets

Warm clothing and lifejackets

TPAs and Immersion Suits

Launching in Heavy Weather

Use of Rocket Line-Throwing Appliances

Breeches buoy

Use of Emergency Steering and its Arrangements

Arrangements for Towing and being taken in tow

Towing Equipment and Tools on Board Ship

Methods of Towing Disabled Ship

Communication Between Two Ships

Emergency Towing Booklet

Rescue of Persons from Sea or from a Vessel in Distress

Use of oil in rough weather

Waiting for Day Light and Providing a Lee

Method of Rescue When Sea Conditions are Too Dangerous to Use Boat

Response to Distress Signal at Sea

Measures for Assisting a Vessel in Distress

Contents of the IAMSAR

Various Search Pattern and Signals to be Made by Ships and Aircraft

Use of IMO Standard Marine Communication Phrases and English in Written and Oral Form

Contents of SMCP

Preparing Charts and Other Nautical Publications

Understanding Meteorological Information and Messages Concerning Ships Safety and Operation

Communicating with Other Ships, Coast Stations and VTS Centres

Performing the Officer’s Duties also with a Multilingual Crew

Standard Marine Communication Phrases

Using and understanding the IMO Standard Marine Communication Phrases (SMCP)

Transmit and Receive Information by Visual Signalling

Signalling by Morse Code (Transmission and Reception)

Morse Symbols for the Alphabet and Numerals

Transmitting and Receiving Single Letter Signals by Morse Light

Ability to Transmit and Receive the Distress Signal “SOS”

Ability to Transmit and Receive the Urgency Signal “XXX”

Ability to Transmit and Receive the Safety Signal “TTT”

Using International Code of Signals

Recognition of International Codes Flags and Pendants

Purpose of International Code of Signals

Meanings of Single-letter Flag signals

International Code Signal of Distress

Manoeuvring the Ship

Effects of Various Deadweights and Draughts

Trim, Speed and Under-Keel Clearance, Turning Circles and Stopping Distances

Manoeuvring Data of Ship

Advance, Transfer, Drift Angle and Tactical Diameter

Track Reach, Head Reach and Side Reach

Turning Circles of a Ship and Directional Stability

Pilot card

Wheelhouse Poster

Effect of Wind and Current on Ship Handling

Effect of Wind on a given Ship while Moving and making Large Turns

Effect of Wind and Current on the Motion of the Ship

Manoeuvres for the Rescue of a Man Overboard

Man-Overboard Procedures

Initial Actions

Use of Man-Overboard Function in GPS for Homing in to the Man in the Water

Preparations for Rescuing Man

Picking Up Man and Picking Up Boat

Immediate and Delayed Action

Sequence of Actions when a Person is Seen to Fall Overboard

Squat and Shallow-Water and Similar Effects

Shallow Water

Squat and Bank Effect

Proper Procedures for Anchoring and Mooring

Procedure for Anchoring

Precautions to be Taken

Using Correct Terminology for Communication Between Bridge and Anchor Station Crew

Use of Anchor Buoys

Marking of the Cable

Sealing of Spurling Pipes

Joining of Two Mooring Ropes

Slip wire

Mooring Plan of a Ship

Optimum Mooring Pattern and Rope Leads

Dangers of using Different Rope Types in One Mooring System

Rigging Pilot LadderCombination Ladder

Making Fast Tugs and using Fenders during Berthing

DGS EXAMINATION FORMAT

SECOND MATE (F.G.) Maximum Marks: 200

Duration: 3 hrs. Pass Marks: 100

BRIDGE EQUIPMENT AND WATCH KEEPING

Note:

ATTEMPT ANY 8 OUT OF 9 QUESTIONS.
ALL QUESTIONS CARRY EQUAL MARKS

Q1. GYRO COMPASS, MAGNETIC COMPASS, AUTO PILOT, COURSE RECORDER, ROTI

Q2. DOPPLER LOG, ELECTRO MAGNETIC LOG, ECHO SOUNDER, OTHERS

Q3. ELECTRONIC POSITION FIXING SYSTEM

Q4. AIS, LRIT, VOYAGE DATA RECORDER, SEXTANT

Q5. BRIDGE PROCEDURES

Q6. IAMSAR, VTS PROCEDURES, SHIP REPORTING SYSTEMS

Q7. WATCHKEEPING, BRM

Q8. SAFETY, WATCH KEEPING, EMERGENCIES

Q9. MANOEUVRING

Please note that the above format is only an indicative of the examination paper. The candidates are advised to refer to detailed teaching syllabus and the course outline.

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