Seafarers’ fatigue ALERT
– an underestimated issue
The IMO has considered the issue of
human fatigue and agreed to
develop practical guidance to
provide appropriate information on fatigue to all
parties concerned. The guidelines on fatigue
were finalized by the HTW Sub-Committee in
July 2018. Fatigue is ”A state of physical and/or
mental impairment resulting from factors such
as inadequate sleep, extended wakefulness,
work/rest requirements out of sync with circa-dian
rhythms and physical, mental or emotional
exertion that can impair alertness and the ability
to safely operate a ship or perform safety-related
duties.”
Fatigue is a hazard because it may affect a
seafarer’s ability to do their job effectively and
safely. Importantly, fatigue affects everyone
20 SUOMEN MERENKULKU J FINLANDS SJÖFART
regardless of skill, knowledge and training. The
effects of fatigue can be particularly dangerous
in the transportation sector, including the
shipping industry. All stakeholders should be
alert to the factors which may contribute to
fatigue, and make efforts to mitigate and manage
the risks posed by fatigue.
FATIGUE IS PRIMARILY CAUSED BY:
• lack of sleep, i.e. inadequate restorative sleep;
• poor quality of sleep and rest;
• work/sleep at inappropriate times of the body clock
(circadian rhythm);
• staying awake for long periods; stress; and
• excessive workload (prolonged mental and/or physical
exertion).
Fatigue is a
hazard that
affects safety,
health and
well-being.
It presents a
considerable
risk to safety of
life, property,
health, security
and protection
of the marine
environment.