IMS9.2.1 Appropriate use of Mobile Devices Policy - Vessel and Vehicle Operators

1.0   INTRODUCTION

SeaLink Travel Group recognises that the use of mobile devices is an accepted form of communication across the organisation, both as an operational tool and personal means of contact.

We are responsible for the safe operation of all our vessels and vehicles and therefore it is important that we reduce the risks arising from the use of mobile devices.

This policy outlines the minimum standard and specifically applies to SeaLink Travel Group employees operating vessels and vehicles.

The policy applies to all mobile devices, such as mobile phones, I-Pads/kindles/e-readers, laptops, multimedia devices, and includes company-issued devices and personal devices.

2.0   DEFINITION OF 'USE'

A Master, person in charge of keeping a proper lookout, or driver of a vehicle is considered to be using a mobile device if the person:

• Makes or receives phone calls,
• Sends, reads, receives or drafts an SMS/MMS,
• Sends, reads, receives or drafts an email,
• Uses an app or social media,
• Browses the internet, or
• Has passive interactions e.g. looking at an SMS, email or notification on screen without opening.

3.0   VESSEL OPERATIONS

Masters are required to comply with the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs) at all times, which includes the requirement to keep a proper lookout. The navigation of a vessel requires the coordination and use of sight, hearing and physical presence. Therefore, the use of a mobile device inevitably exposes a Master to a range of issues, these include, but are not limited to:

• Restriction of sight - limiting the ability to keep a proper lookout, make an appropriate and timely assessment to prevent risk of collision, assessing safe speed, density of traffic or making positive action in ample time to avoid collision.
• Reduced concentration and situational awareness.
• Slower reaction time during adverse events - which could result in a reduction in response speed.
• Risky decision making - judgement around basic or complex situations can have a significant effect on choices made.
• Failure to maintain a high standard of seamanship - resulting in veering off course, traveling at an unsafe speed or traveling too close to other vessels.
• Changed behaviour - a Master who is distracted by a mobile device is more likely to do something different, and possibly unsafe. 

4.0   PERMITTED USE

• Use of a mobile device is permitted by Masters and Crew while:
• Not responsible for keeping a proper lookout by sight and hearing,
• Not attending to designated functions in connection with the safe operation of the vessel or business undertakings,
• The vessel is tied up and secure,
• The vessel is secured to a mooring or at anchor,
• On a designated break, or
• In the case of an emergency.

5.0   PROHIBITED USE OF A MOBILE DEVICE BY MASTER AND CREW

• Responsible for keeping a proper lookout by sight and hearing,
• Attending to designated functions in connection with the safe operation of a vessel,
• Responsible for providing passenger service operations,
• Completing mooring operations (during, immediately prior to and immediately after),
• Completing refueling operations (during, immediately prior to and immediately after), and/or
• Designated ‘high risk’ areas of operation – any areas classified as high risk by the General Manager.

6.0   VEHICLE OPERATIONS

The Australian Road Rules apply when operating a company-owned vehicle, as well as a personal vehicle for business undertakings. The driver of a vehicle must not use a mobile device while the vehicle is moving, or stationary but not parked, unless the mobile device is being used to make or receive an audio phone call and the body of the mobile device:

a) Is secured in a mounting affixed to the vehicle; or

b) Is not secured in a mounting affixed to the vehicle and not being held by the driver, and the use of the phone does not require the driver, at any time while using it, to press anything on the body of the phone or to otherwise manipulate any part of the body of the phone.

This policy applies to all businesses owned by SeaLink Travel Group and must be applied in conjunction with applicable laws and company policies.

Clint Feuerherdt
CEO and Managing Director