Night Navigation and Reduced Visibility Bridge Procedures Checklist
This night navigation and reduced visibility bridge procedures checklist ensures compliance with COLREGS Rule 19 (Conduct in Restricted Visibility), STCW Section A-VIII/2 (Bridge Watchkeeping), and company bridge procedures for enhanced watchkeeping in reduced visibility. Collisions in restricted visibility remain a significant maritime casualty cause — proper radar watch, sound signals, and navigational caution are required.
- Industry: Maritime
- Frequency: Per Event
- Estimated Time: 20-30 minutes
- Role: Officer of the Watch / Master
- Total Items: 25
- Compliance: COLREGS Rule 19 Conduct in Restricted Visibility, COLREGS Rules 35-36 Sound Signals in Restricted Visibility, STCW Section A-VIII/2 Bridge Watchkeeping Standards, IMO Resolution A.1046(27) Bridge Watchkeeping Guidance, Company Bridge Procedures Manual
Master Notification
Master call criteria.
- Master called as per standing orders on entering reduced visibility?
- Master's night orders read and understood by OOW?
- Additional visual lookout posted on bridge wings?
- Helmsman called to manual steering?
- Engine room put on standby manoeuvring readiness?
Radar Watch
Enhanced radar monitoring.
- Both radars operating on appropriate ranges?
- All targets tracked on ARPA and CPA/TCPA monitored?
- Radar anti-clutter controls properly adjusted?
- Collision avoidance action taken in ample time per COLREGS?
- Systematic radar plots maintained for close traffic?
Sound Signals
Fog signal compliance.
- Fog signal sounding at correct interval?
- Automatic fog signal device operational?
- Bell and gong ready for use if required?
- Listening watch maintained for fog signals from other vessels?
- VHF Channel 16 monitored for traffic warnings?
Speed and Collision Avoidance
Safe speed compliance.
- Speed reduced to safe speed for conditions per COLREGS Rule 6?
- Collision avoidance actions taken in ample time and substantial?
- Right-hand side of narrow channel kept per COLREGS Rule 9?
- VTS/coastal radio informed of position and intentions if required?
- AIS targets used to complement (not replace) radar watch?
Bridge Logbook
Record keeping.
- Visibility observations and actions logged in bridge log?
- Time Master called and reason logged?
- Fog signal commencement and cessation logged?
- Speed reductions and engine orders logged?
- Night Navigation Notes
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Why Use This Night Navigation and Reduced Visibility Bridge Procedures Checklist?
This night navigation and reduced visibility bridge procedures checklist helps maritime teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for officer of the watch / master professionals, this checklist covers 25 critical inspection points across 5 sections. Recommended frequency: per event.
Ensures compliance with COLREGS Rule 19 Conduct in Restricted Visibility, COLREGS Rules 35-36 Sound Signals in Restricted Visibility, STCW Section A-VIII/2 Bridge Watchkeeping Standards, IMO Resolution A.1046(27) Bridge Watchkeeping Guidance, Company Bridge Procedures Manual. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Night Navigation and Reduced Visibility Bridge Procedures Checklist cover?
This checklist covers 25 inspection items across 5 sections: Master Notification, Radar Watch, Sound Signals, Speed and Collision Avoidance, Bridge Logbook. It is designed for maritime operations and compliance.
How often should this checklist be completed?
This checklist should be completed per event. Each completion takes approximately 20-30 minutes.
Who should use this Night Navigation and Reduced Visibility Bridge Procedures Checklist?
This checklist is designed for Officer of the Watch / Master professionals in the maritime industry. It can be used for self-assessments, team audits, and regulatory compliance documentation.
Can I download this checklist as a PDF?
Yes, this checklist is available as a free PDF download. You can also use it digitally in the POPProbe mobile app for real-time data capture, photo documentation, and automatic reporting.