- In this safety scenario, a container vessel ran aground due to the Officer on Watch (OOW) falling asleep during their shift.
- The incident highlights the critical importance of vigilance, adherence to safety procedures, and effective fatigue management to prevent accidents at sea.
The incident occurred when the Chief Officer, who was responsible for the bridge watch, fell asleep while the vessel was on autopilot. As a result, the vessel deviated from its planned course and ran aground on a small island. The low monotone signal of the cross track alarm failed to awaken the Chief Officer, contributing to the accident.
Risk Assessment and Prevention
Effective fatigue management is crucial to prevent similar accidents. Crew members, especially those assigned to critical roles like the OOW, should receive adequate rest periods to maintain alertness during their watch. Implementing comprehensive fatigue management policies, including proper watchkeeping schedules and regular crew rotation, can help mitigate the risk of fatigue-related incidents.
Compliance with SMS
The Safety Management System (SMS) aboard the vessel may have been compromised, as evidenced by breaches in established procedures. The incident raises questions about the adequacy of rest periods for crew members and the absence of continuous lookout on the bridge. Reviewing and reinforcing SMS protocols, along with regular training and drills, are essential to ensure compliance and prevent accidents.
Learning and Training
The incident underscores the importance of ongoing training and education for crew members to address fatigue management and promote a culture of safety onboard. Training programs should focus on recognizing and mitigating the risks associated with fatigue, maintaining situational awareness, and adhering to established procedures. Crew members should be empowered to speak up and report fatigue-related concerns to prevent accidents and enhance overall safety at sea.
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Source: Swedish Club
