Fatigue Reports

Managing a new addition to the established workload – and what maritime regulation can learn from civil aviation

Ten ideas to help manage tiredness and fatigue at sea – and how to spot the difference before it’s too late

As edited from USCG Safety Alert Safety Alert 02-25

The IMO’s sub-Committee on the Implementation of IMO Instruments met in London between 21 and 25 July 2025.

Seafarers work in a heavily regulated industry. Like many other dedicated professionals out there, they face a workload that is physically and mentally challenging. Prolonged stress, working long hours in an isolated place and not finding enough time to sleep can all lead to immense fatigue. The good news is that there is plenty that can be done to help combat stress and promote healthy, restorative sleep. Captain James Foong FNI explains further

There are many – far too many – accidents where fatigue is cited as a contributing cause. So what lessons should the industry be learning as a whole to tackle ongoing issues of crew fatigue? If the industry wishes to retain experienced workers in safe conditions, then the time for action from ship owners and operators is now, writes Seafarers Hospital Society CEO Sandra Welch

George Shaw from the Royal Institute of Navigation looks at how how technology might be able to help address concerns about fatigue at sea

Fatigue at sea has gained increasing attention over the last few years – and generated research to match. Current regulatory requirements mainly focus on hours of work and rest. However, other factors come into play, such as irregular work hours and having to stay at your workplace to sleep. Dr Michelle Grech from the Australian Seafarers Welfare Council looks at why sleep matters, and how you can tell when you or your colleague might be affected

Observations on safe manning, watchkeeping and fatigue over 35+ years