Sleepiness a red zone for watchkeepers: Three Case Studies

Lessons learned

Tiredness is a phenomenon to which all humans are prone and no one is exempt. especially in the workplace, but the magnitude of its consequences varies depending on the nature of the job. In shipping, which is characterized by long shift hours, falling asleep on the bridge could lead to extreme costs, environmental pollution or even fatalities.

Lessons learned: Crew must maintain high levels of supervision when working on deck

Lessons learned

Following the second edition of UK MAIB Safety Digest for 2020, it is described how a bosun operated a wrong handle, resulting in the accidental release of the anchor.

Transport Malta investigation: Heavy weather likely contributed to fatal fall from stairway onboard

Lessons learned

Transport Malta issued an investigation report on the fatal fall of a crew member onboard the bulk carrier MV Alma while in the Atlantic Ocean in heavy weather. While there were no witnesses, the investigation did not exclude the possibility that the crew member either lost his stepping or balance due the rolling and pitching motions of the vessel.

Lessons learned: Falling asleep is a real risk when working at night

Lessons learned

Following the latest edition of Safety Digest for 2020, it is highlighted how an Officer of the Watch fell asleep on the bridge, leading to a grounding incident.