Description

Bridge Procedures Guide – Sixth Edition

The Bridge Procedures Guide Book is widely regarded as the leading industry reference for safe bridge operations. Used globally by maritime professionals, it provides structured guidance on watchkeeping, navigation procedures, and bridge resource management to ensure safe and compliant vessel operations.

This sixth edition reflects the rapid technological advancements in shipping and includes updated guidance on ECDIS, GNSS, radar, weather routing, and digital navigation systems. It also addresses critical areas such as human factors, risk assessment, cargo operations, and communication between bridge and engine room, helping crews adapt to modern maritime challenges.

The guide aligns with international standards and is recommended by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), making it an essential onboard reference for maintaining compliance and operational excellence.

Why This Bridge Procedures Guide Book is Essential for Safe Navigation

Safe navigation depends on effective bridge procedures, clear communication, and proper use of technology. This guide provides best practice frameworks for watchkeeping, decision-making, and teamwork on the bridge, reducing the risk of human error and navigational incidents.

For a more comprehensive understanding of navigation systems and situational awareness, this publication works effectively alongside Lights and Shapes at Sea and COLREGS Sound and Light Signals, supporting interpretation of visual and sound signals during navigation.

It also complements professional navigation resources available across the Academy, including ECDIS-related publications found in the ECDIS book collection, helping bridge teams integrate digital navigation with operational procedures.

Who Should Read This Bridge Procedures Guide Book?

This book is essential for Masters, watchkeeping officers, deck officers, cadets, and maritime professionals responsible for navigation and bridge operations. It is also widely used by shipping companies, training institutions, and accident investigators.

Whether used onboard, in training, or within technical departments, this guide provides the knowledge required to maintain safe navigation practices and align with international maritime standards.

The sixth edition of the Guide features:

• Increased guidance on non-navigational procedures;
• New sections on the human element, Electronic Chart Display and Information System (ECDIS) safety settings, category zone of confidence (CATZOC), weather routeing, communications with the engine control room, cargo operations, risk assessments and permits to work, ship stability, ballast water management, errors associated with Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS), and characteristics of radar;
• More visual aids to improve understanding and support on board training; and
• Simplified language to reflect current best practice in writing guidelines and checklists.

The Bridge Procedures Guide complements the guidance in the ICS Engine Room Procedures Guide , and, when used together, readers can be confident they are gaining a comprehensive and up-to-date understanding of the latest industry best-practice operations.

It is strongly recommended that a copy of the sixth edition is carried on board every ship, and copies are held within the technical departments of shipping company.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Bridge Procedures Guide Book used for?

This book is used to provide guidance on safe bridge operations, watchkeeping procedures, and navigation best practices.

Who should read the Bridge Procedures Guide?

It is suitable for Masters, deck officers, watchkeeping officers, cadets, and maritime professionals responsible for navigation.

Does the book cover modern navigation technology?

Yes, it includes guidance on ECDIS, GNSS, radar, and other modern navigation systems.

Is it aligned with IMO standards?

Yes, the guide follows internationally recognised standards and is recommended by the IMO.

Is this book suitable for training purposes?

Yes, it is widely used in maritime training institutions and onboard training programs.