Use of mobile phones by bus drivers: a sociotechnical approach

Mobile use and distraction while driving increases risk of a safety critical event. Reports indicate that mobile use among bus drivers may be increasing. This study investigated the scope and causes of mobile use by bus drivers in two Norwegian counties. The data collection consisted of a survey and interviews. Just less than 20 percent of the bus drivers occasionally use their phone while operating a bus even though this is against company guidelines. A sociotechnical analysis uncovered the interaction of four factors as contributors: (1) Technology in society; (2) bus driver culture, (3) conflicting goals, and (4) lack of belief in consequences. To reduce use of mobile while driving, clear and consistent procedures must be developed, preferably in a participative process in which bus drivers are involved from the outset.