The review analyses the effect of different watchkeeping systems on the performance, sleepiness and fatigue of the crew.
Most naval operations require round-the-clock watchkeeping so that vessels can operate 24 hours a day. Watchkeeping can be performed with different watchkeeping systems, which may exacerbate crew fatigue, especially during a prolonged operation. The purpose of the review is to analyse the impact of different watchkeeping systems on crew performance, sleepiness and fatigue.
A significant proportion of maritime traffic accidents can be considered to be caused by human activity. Human factors that can contribute to errors and accidents can include e.g. deficiencies in technical skills, fatigue, poor judgment and risk taking. Fatigue has been identified as a critical risk factor affecting the safety of maritime operations. According to various estimates, fatigue is either the primary cause or a contributing factor in about a quarter of marine accidents.
The review was conducted by collecting information from different databases using keywords selected for the purpose. Reference lists of key articles were also used in the preparation of the review.
2025:2 The effects of different navy watchkeeping systems on crew performance, sleepiness, and fatigue – a review
Additional information
Research Manager, dr Petteri Simola
Previous research bulletins can be found here.
