New Zealand Report Highlights Fatigue Risks and Safety Recommendations

The Transport Accident Investigation Commission in New Zealand has released a report on the grounding of the passenger vessel Fiordland Navigator, attributing the accident to the fatigued master who fell asleep at the helm. The incident occurred on January 24, 2024, when the vessel ran aground while making a turn in Doubtful Sound. With nine crew members and 57 passengers on board, several individuals sustained minor injuries, and the vessel suffered moderate damage. Despite the mishap, the crew responded effectively by safely evacuating passengers to Deep Cove and then to Te Anau, with the vessel returning to Deep Cove that night.

The report highlighted several key safety issues surrounding the incident. It pointed out that the master likely fell asleep due to workload-induced fatigue, which was exacerbated by long work hours that were not adequately monitored or managed. Additionally, the lack of a system to ensure ongoing medical fitness during the master’s two-year certification period raised concerns. The operator’s safety system also failed to track actual rest hours or effectively identify and mitigate fatigue risks for sole-charge masters.

To address these safety issues, the Commission made several recommendations. It called for improved awareness and enforcement of medical fitness standards by Maritime NZ, as well as updates to the operator’s fatigue-management system. RealNZ, the vessel operator, was advised to reassess the risks associated with having a sole-charge master and implement measures to mitigate these risks. Furthermore, the Commission emphasized the importance of proper safety management oversight, suggesting the creation of a Maritime Resource Planner role and adjustments to management responsibilities to enhance oversight and risk management.

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