SOLAS Chapter V Bridge Equipment & Navigation Aids Inspection

SOLAS Chapter V Regulation 19 requires carriage of navigation equipment based on vessel size and trade area. Before each departure, the officer of the watch must verify that all required navigation aids are functional, the radar is operational, ECDIS (if applicable) has current chart updates, and AIS is broadcasting correct vessel data. SOLAS V/16 requires that navigation equipment be maintained in efficient working order. Defective navigation equipment must be reported to flag state and classif

  • Industry: Transportation & Logistics
  • Frequency: Quarterly
  • Estimated Time: 20-30 minutes
  • Role: Master/Chief Officer
  • Total Items: 18
  • Compliance: SOLAS 1974 as amended, IMO Resolution MSC, ISM Code

AIS and DSC Radio System Check

AIS must broadcast correct vessel data; DSC must be capable of distress alert transmission. Verify per SOLAS IV/14 and V/19.

  • AIS transmitting correct MMSI, IMO number, vessel name, call sign, and position?
  • AIS voyage data (destination, ETA, draught, persons on board) updated for this voyage?
  • VHF DSC controller connected to GPS position source and functional on CH70?
  • VHF handheld distress sets (minimum 3 per SOLAS) charged and functional?

Radar and ARPA Operational Test

Both radar ranges (typically X-band and S-band) must be functional before departure per SOLAS V/19.2.

  • X-band radar (3 cm) starts up, completes warm-up, and displays clear picture?
  • S-band radar (10 cm, if required by tonnage) operational?
  • ARPA targets tracking correctly; no false targets displayed?
  • Radar performance monitor test performed; results within acceptable range?

ECDIS Chart Updates and Route Planning

For vessels operating with ECDIS as primary means of navigation, chart updates and route planning must be verified before departure.

  • ECDIS ENCs updated with latest weekly update service before departure?
  • Planned route checked for hazards, UKC (underkeel clearance), and TSSs on ECDIS?
  • Paper charts as backup available for voyage area (ECDIS backup requirement)?

Magnetic Compass and Gyrocompass

Compass accuracy is fundamental to safe navigation. Verify deviation card currency and gyrocompass alignment per SOLAS V/19.

  • Standard magnetic compass deviation table current (corrected within past 12 months)?
  • Gyrocompass(es) spinning up and aligned; repeaters showing consistent heading?
  • Heading sensor for AIS and radar heading line (ARPA) aligned with gyrocompass?

Bridge Pre-Departure Checklist Completion

Document the pre-departure bridge equipment check completion per ship's SMS procedures.

  • All required navigation equipment operational per SOLAS V/19 for this voyage?
  • Any equipment deficiencies noted (describe or None):
  • Vessel name, voyage number, and departure port:
  • Officer of the watch signature:

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Why Use This SOLAS Chapter V Bridge Equipment & Navigation Aids Inspection?

This solas chapter v bridge equipment & navigation aids inspection helps transportation & logistics teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for master/chief officer professionals, this checklist covers 18 critical inspection points across 5 sections. Recommended frequency: quarterly.

Ensures compliance with SOLAS 1974 as amended, IMO Resolution MSC, ISM Code. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the SOLAS Chapter V Bridge Equipment & Navigation Aids Inspection cover?

This checklist covers 18 inspection items across 5 sections: AIS and DSC Radio System Check, Radar and ARPA Operational Test, ECDIS Chart Updates and Route Planning, Magnetic Compass and Gyrocompass, Bridge Pre-Departure Checklist Completion. It is designed for transportation & logistics operations and compliance.

How often should this checklist be completed?

This checklist should be completed quarterly. Each completion takes approximately 20-30 minutes.

Who should use this SOLAS Chapter V Bridge Equipment & Navigation Aids Inspection?

This checklist is designed for Master/Chief Officer professionals in the transportation & logistics 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.

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