Re: UP to begin installing inward-facing Cab Cams
Author: Mark
Date: 08-25-2013 - 16:23
The problem isn't cell phones or electronic devices, it's distractions. Humans are easily distracted.
I would argue the railroad environment itself creates infinitely more distractions than personal electronic devices do. There's tons of radio traffic not relevant to other trains, the scenery captures your interest whether it be good looking women, nice cars, planes, animals, or weather seen out the window. Alarm bells and locomotive defects cause distractions too.
A certain level of stimuli is needed to keep crewmembers awake. For some, the above is enough, for others they need more in the form of electronic devices. I certainly don't condone the latter but if the only other alternative is going to sleep, then yeah, cell phones are probably better.