Combatting glare and heat can make for an unenviable task but there are several legislatory documents which insist on a means to allow a clear view at all times regardless of weather conditions, through a minimum of two forward facing windows and additional windows depending on the bridge configuration.
Rule 5 of the International Collision Regulations entitled ‘Look-out’ reads, ‘every vessel shall at all times maintain a proper look-out by sight and hearing as well as by all means appropriate in the prevailing circumstances and conditions so as to make full appraisal of the situation and the risk of collision’.
Therefore, in sunny and bright conditions mariners need to make sure that the sun does not compromise the safe passage of the vessel to minimise the likelihood of shipping accidents and ensure the safety of any passengers.
According to Solarsolv, it may be tempting to specify tinted glass for wheelhouse windows, but permanently tinted windows are not a satisfactory solution to this issue as they can create problems when navigating at night as navigation marks and lights can become distorted, and colour identification hindered.
Most of the legislation that exists on navigation visibility dismisses the idea of fitting polarised and tinted windows. SOLAS, Class Societies, MCA and USCG specify that polarised and tinted windows should not be fitted. Merchant Shipping Notice No M.760 reads: ‘Owners and builders will no doubt be aware of the possible implications which could arise if a ship with tinted glass wheelhouse windows were involved in a casualty and the question of a proper lookout being maintained became relevant. No objection would be raised to the provision of tinted screens or visors to overcome dazzle etc. provided that such screens or visors were hinged or otherwise removable.’
Anti glare roller screens provide effective glare, heat and UV light protection, similar to that of tinted windows, and are instantly retractable and removable when not required, such as during night time navigation. Owing to the immense benefits sunscreens provide, new legislation has recently been published to support their use on all vessels: IMO 5.1.1.2.6 − Removable Sunscreens specifies ‘To ensure a clear view and to avoid reflections in bright sunshine, sunscreens with a minimum colour distortion should be provided at all windows. Such screens should be readily removable and not permanently installed’.
Anti glare roller screens such as Solasolv type approved screens are one solution to problems associated with the sun. The manufacturers claim they reduce glare and reflection by up to 93%, reduce heat by up to 87% and ensure 100% optical clarity with true colour rendition in sunny and bright conditions.
By Jake Frith
