Seafarers worldwide face significant challenges, including fatigue and anxiety, according to research from Cardiff University’s Seafarers International Research Centre. Over a third of cargo workers reported insufficient sleep, often due to demanding hours. Alarmingly, many did not receive timely medical care, exacerbating the already difficult conditions at sea.
The Transport Accident Investigation Commission in New Zealand released a report on the grounding of the passenger vessel Fiordland Navigator, attributing it to a fatigued master who fell asleep at the helm. The incident occurred on January 24, 2024, resulting in minor injuries and moderate damage. Recommendations were made to improve safety measures and oversight.
Bikram S. Bhatia’s PhD dissertation at the World Maritime University uncovered discrepancies in seafarers’ work/rest hour reporting within the shipping industry. Using the ITFRAM, his research highlighted seafarers’ record adjustments and PSC officers’ high compliance rates. The study emphasized the need for systemic changes to enhance safety and fairness in the industry.
The NTSB revealed that the pilot of the Marquette Transportation towboat John 3:16 fell asleep during his watch, causing a collision with an industrial cargo pier near Saint Rose, La. The incident, attributed to fatigue, highlighted the importance of mariners getting sufficient rest to avoid performance decrements and ensure safe navigation.
