Fatigue and watchkeeping
MEPC.1/Circ.1014 guidance, sleep banking, hot-bunking risks.
Why it matters
Fatigue is a causal factor in almost every modern grounding / collision investigation. STCW VIII rest hours are the legal minimum, not the safety target.
Common hazards
- Single-person watches and 6-on/6-off rotations.
- Port stays with limited rest opportunity.
- Multiple sequential alarms during off-watch.
- Self-reported rest hours that don't match reality.
Practical checklist
- Record actual rest hours, not idealised hours.
- Refuse non-emergency tasks during rest periods.
- Take rest opportunistically in port.
- Raise fatigue concerns with the Master or DPA — protected under MLC.
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Primary sources
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