From habit to hazard at sea: Distraction from personal electronic devices

The constant use of mobile phones and other personal devices persists due to ingrained connectivity habits, the urge for instant responses, and the mistaken belief that individuals can effectively multitask while operating personal devices and performing critical duties, according to P&I, marine and energy insurance provider Gard.

This persistent behaviour is underscored by the numerous maritime accidents over the years linked to mobile devices, such as collisions, groundings, personnel injuries, pollution, and even tragic fatalities.

Ship pilots in many ports frequently use mobile phones and portable devices for essential navigation and real-time communication with tugs and shore authorities. While these devices can be deemed essential for their duties in some instances, a detour towards personal use can also occur.

According to Gard, various cases have shown that personal electronic devices can be a workplace distraction.

During a collision incident, Gard said the officer on one of the vessels altered the course at a planned waypoint without checking the surrounding traffic. This resulted in a collision with another vessel, which subsequently capsized, leading to the tragic loss of its two crew members. The investigation found, among other things, that the officer was distracted throughout his watch by the continual use of a tablet computer.

“The notion that we can effectively multitask, for instance, by using our mobile devices while simultaneously performing a critical task like watchkeeping on a ship’s bridge, is largely a misconception,” says Gard.

According to Gard, numerous studies have explored how phone use, both handheld and hands-free, affects driver behaviour.

These findings offer valuable insights for seafarers, highlighting the potential risks of phone use while performing critical tasks on board, akin to the dangers observed when driving.

Understanding these parallels is crucial to raising the awareness among seafarers about the potential for similar impairments and risks to safety when using phones during shipboard operations.