Traditional fatigue management programs usually included a policy, some training for employees and perhaps some rules related to hours of work. A major focus of the perceived risk with regard to fatigue was targeted at the consequences of sleep loss and most risk controls were aimed at improving access to sleep opportunities (by limiting hours of work) and the ability of each individual to get adequate sleep between shifts (by providing training).

While these approaches appear logical, and while it is true that sleep loss is an important element in understanding fatigue, most existing fatigue management approaches only partially address the critical factors. Managing the risks related to fatigue requires more than just managing issues related to sleep. Many existing “Fatigue Risk Management” systems do not adequately identify, assess, control and/or monitor the range of risks required.

The stated purpose of most fatigue management initiatives is to reduce the contribution fatigue may make to incidents and accidents. Fatigue management initiatives should do this (and in practice they can) but there are also significant flexibility and efficiency benefits that can be realised in extended-/24-hour operations with a fully effective Fatigue Risk Management System (FRMS).

Companies that implement a practical, integrated and risk-based fatigue management system that is part of normal operations can realise significant human and business benefits. Key system elements that are usually required include:

• Routine assessment of the possible contribution of fatigue to previous incidents and accidents, to learn lessons that can improve procedures, training and reporting processes
• Regular Risk Assessment workshops with employees, contractors and other key stakeholders to identify existing fatigue-related risks and controls, and assess gaps in the system
• Education and training, tailored to the needs of your operations, to improve the personal and business management of fatigue
• Contingency plans that allow for short-term changes in demand and workload to address fatigue proactively, and also monitor it until normal operations resume
• Annual audits of hours of work, compliance with procedures at key sites, completion of training, and other requirements, to provide assurance to Executive Management and to remain focused on high-priority issues that require attention

Integrated Safety Limited has extensive experience in developing, implementing and auditing fatigue management systems in many industries. The exact elements that are appropriate in each context and site will differ, and could include more detailed elements – such as checklists for calling in contractors, incident investigation tools for accident assessments, and briefing sessions for senior managers – depending on the client requirements.