WHAT IS BAM?
BAM is a regulatory requirement, defined by the IMO, for the management, handling and harmonized presentation of alerts on the bridge. It imposes requirements on equipment that generates, manages and presents alerts on the bridge, including equipment that provides Central Alert Management (CAM) system functionalities (the latter is optional).
IEC 62923 specifies the operational and performance requirements, methods of testing, and required test results for BAM in support of IMO resolution MSC.302(87). It is applicable to all alerts presented on and transferred to the bridge.
BAM does not reduce alerts; instead, it prioritizes them and changes the way they are brought to the attention of bridge crew and officers. With BAM, alerts are classified and easier to identify as well as clearer to define who is responsible for handling them. It makes decision-making easier and enables the operator to immediately identify issues and take appropriate action to maintain safe operations.
From 30 August 2021, the EU Marine Equipment Directive (MED) requires compliance with the Bridge Alert Management (BAM) test standards IEC 62923-1 / IEC 62923-2 for new installation of GMDSS communication equipment’s placed on board SOLAS ships.