Camp operators to use body cameras in high-element outdoor activities after death of ACS(I) student
https://www.straitstimes.com/sport/schools/camp-operators-to-use-body-cameras-to-enhance-safety-in-high-element-outdoor
I refer to the above article which appeared in the Straits Times on 17 February 2021.
Any effort to boost safety in outdoor or adventure activities should be applauded and encouraged. However, it is important that we strive to be as clear as possible in our approach towards safety management, and not unwittingly introduce further risk, particularly when adopting or implementing new technology.
I am not against this idea of using body cameras. I only wish to raise pertinent questions or points that hopefully lead us to more informed conclusions.
Firstly, is a body camera considered a ‘safety device’? Does it materially impact the safe operation of an activity? If a camera malfunctions while the activity is in progress, will the activity be stopped or paused until a replacement is found? Taken to the extreme case, what happens if all the available cameras aren't working? Will the activity be cancelled?
What are the additional risks to instructors when they wear the body camera during the activity? Will their movements as they go about their tasks be impeded in any way? In height activities, climbers need to focus on their movements as they move about in this physically risky space. The equipment they use must be fit for purpose and of course reliable. This is why climbing equipment is designed with a minimalist philosophy, such that the likelihood of malfunction is very low (subject to correct use and proper maintenance). Any additional or extraneous item is another item to think about for the climber, which in turn chips away at his focus.
What is the response time should the operator (from a “remote location” as stated in the article) spot any life-threatening mistakes? What is the method of communication? (This introduces another set of questions regarding the use of communication devices.) Are the operators expected to keep an eye on the instructors in the field all the time? Why not deploy additional staff on site with the instructors?
While cameras can support safe operation, they can also erode the instructors' ability to assess the situation and exercise judgement. Worse, the instructors may come to question their own ability. So if the camera and communications system doesn't work, will the instructor still have confidence that the minimal level of safety is still present and adequate, as per established organisational standard procedures?
I conclude by reiterating my purpose of nudging all in our industry to carefully consider the implications of introducing any kind of new technology, and to be wary of attaching unreasonable or unrealistic expectations to it.
A tool is only as good as a person’s ability to use it.
