In confined waters where traffic is dense and margins are tight, strong bridge resource management (BRM) is critical for preventing harm to persons, property and the environment. One of the most common threats to effective BRM today is distraction from personal electronic devices (PEDs).
An overtaking casualty in a congested pilotage waterway illustrates the risk: A large vessel overtook a smaller power‑driven vessel without proper lookout, signals or action to keep clear, resulting in a stern impact, flooding and capsize.
The investigation identified non-operational cell phone use among the bridge watch team immediately before and during the collision, along with other human element failures. Because they were distracted, the watchkeepers did not effectively monitor the incoming vessels, communicate clearly or establish an agreed overtaking plan. They were also fatigued and using degraded radar components which led to missed warning signs and a breakdown of basic watchkeeping standards.
This case is a stark reminder that technology cannot compensate for distraction. Tools like radar, AIS and ECDIS are only effective when they’re actively monitored and cross-checked. When watchkeepers use PEDs, their visual scanning slows, they miss audio cues and their mental focus shifts — turning monitoring systems into passive displays rather than active safety barriers. In confined waters where traffic patterns can rapidly change, even a few seconds of distraction can lead to a catastrophic event.
One of the most effective ways to prevent PED distraction in BRM is by implementing a sterile bridge policy. During confined‑water transits and manoeuvers, there should be zero PED use, clearly defined roles and only essential, closed-loop conversations among the watch team. Leaders should also ensure equipment is regularly maintained and implement measures to manage fatigue and promote strong voyage planning.
This situation is just one example of how a momentary lapse in attention can quickly unravel multiple layers of defense in a narrow navigable waterway. By learning from incidents like this and strengthening technical and human‑element controls, our industry can reduce the risk of similar losses in confined or pilotage waters.
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