What is BS EN 61174 – Requirements for electronic chart display and information system about?
BS EN 61174 discusses maritime navigation and radiocommunication equipment and systems. BS EN 61174 specifies the performance requirements, methods of testing and required test results of equipment conforming to performance standards not inferior to those adopted by the IMO in resolution MSC.232(82). The aim of BS EN 61174 is to mitigate potentially dangerous situations by confirming the efficiency of electronic chart display and information system.
These performance standards should apply to all ECDIS equipment carried on all ships as follows:
- Dedicated standalone workstation
- A multifunction workstation as part of an INS
These performance standards apply to ECDIS mode of operation, ECDIS in RCDS mode of operation as specified in Annex G and ECDIS backup arrangements as specified in Annex F.
Requirements for structure and format of the chart data, encryption of chart data as well as the presentation of chart data are within the scope of relevant IHO standards, including those listed in the normative references. The requirements of BS EN 61174 are not intended to prevent the use of new techniques in equipment and systems, provided the facilities offered are not inferior to those stated.
Who is BS EN 61174 - Requirements for electronic chart display and information system for?
BS EN 61174 on electronic chart display and information system is useful for:
- Electronic chart display and information system manufacturers
- Marines corps
- Maritime industries
- Regulatory bodies
- Safety departments
Why should you use BS EN 61174 - Requirements for electronic chart display and information system?
With the use of the electronic chart display and information system (ECDIS), it has become easier for a ship’s navigating crew to pinpoint locations and attain directions.  ECDIS greatly eases the navigator’s workload with its automatic capabilities such as route planning, route monitoring, automatic ETA computation and ENC updating.  
BS EN 61174 provides test methods to check the performance and the working of the electronic chart display and information system. This will ensure that your product complies with the regulatory standards which will help to accurately map out their voyages and minimize risk along the way.
