Fatigue

Early in 2018 we carried out a survey on the awareness and understanding of fatigue, focusing on a group of 83 commercial fishermen who said they spend more than a day at sea at a time. Read a summary of their feedback, including how they manage fatigue.

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A highly experienced skipper and his crew had slept well. They hadn't consumed any alcohol, were operating in good conditions, and had set all watchkeeping alarms. They did ‘everything right’, so what could possibly go wrong?

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Wake up to fatigue

Would you recognise fatigue – in yourself or someone else? Do you know what warning signs to be aware of? Or what things can make fatigue worse? Learn how to recognise fatigue and what to do when you see it. Also find out about the dangers of building up a ‘sleep debt’.

Recognise fatigue

 

A surprising fact about fatigue

If you think ‘feeling tiredness’ is a key sign of fatigue, here's some important news for you. When you're fatigued, you mightn't even feel sleepy at all. In fact, it's possible to both look and feel alert when being at risk of falling asleep.

Discover the real signs of fatigue

 

The hidden costs of fatigue

Some skippers and operators choose to ignore fatigue, mainly because managing it – with things like sleep rosters and extra staff – can cost time and money. The trouble is, the cost of ignoring fatigue can be far greater. Is it really worth the risk?

Uncover the costs of fatigue

 

5 ways to manage fatigue

What do other skippers say about sleeping on board? Under what circumstances do we recommend installing a watchkeeping alarm? What are some strategies for managing safety during trips home? Find out now.

Take control of fatigue

 

Can't sleep? Try these suggestions from other skippers

Sleep doesn't always come easily, especially at sea. That's why we asked skippers for tips on how to tackle sleep on board – and researched other ways to help you put fatigue to bed. Remember, a good night's sleep before sailing should always be a priority!

Check out other skippers' sleeping tips

 

Up your energy levels and lower your risk

Working long hours with limited sleep puts you at risk of fatigue. But other factors, including poor eating habits and not drinking enough water, can also be to blame. Find out how eating well and staying hydrated can help lower your risk of fatigue.

Boost your energy now

 

Develop a fatigue management plan

The best way to minimise the risk of fatigue is to follow a fatigue management plan. Find out how to write and implement a comprehensive fatigue management plan for your operation. 

Develop your plan now

 

What HSWA says about fatigue

Fatigue is a risk that must be managed. Under the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015, all crew must take reasonable care to ensure that nothing they do on board harms themselves or any other person. Both operators and skippers must make sure the vessel is safe and involve the entire crew in managing any risks. Now is the time for you to raise any safety concerns you have with your skipper or operator.