Crew members are prone to many distractions onboard; from a complex navigation bridge to high workloads while navigating their vessel through busy shipping lanes. Analysis of maritime accident reports shows that situational awareness is one of the most important safety factors, highlighting never to relax our vigilance when onboard.
Analysis of accidents at sea that involve loss of life have highlighted the following distractions:
#1 Using personal mobile devices whilst on duty
Talking on cell phones can have serious consequences in safety-critical situations, and sending or reading text messages is potentially even more distracting
#2 Multi-tasking while on watch
Engaging in tasks other than vessel operation affects performance
#3 Music on the bridge throughout the watch
If the listening of music while on watch is accepted onboard, instructions should be promulgated to watchkeeping officers.
#4 Work load and paperwork
Crew members are front with a large amount of form-filling and record keeping being a part of today’s culture; a person onboard dedicated to such duties would ease the burden
#5 Attentional disengagement or mind wandering
Mind wandering or ‘zoning out’ can occur in situations where tasks are protracted, unvarying, familiar, repetitive or undemanding.
Reports from The Nautical Institute, Maritime CHIRP, UK MAIB, NTSB and ATSB include lessons learned from accidents due to poor situational awareness. Keep in mind that this is a skill that can be improved through mentoring and practice. Experience is key to making sense of your environment and making good decisions.
Source: safety4sea