Safety and performance are often perceived as conflicting aspects of shipping. In the aftermath of an untoward event, typical safety interventions or fixes bring about more stringent procedures or more procedures, retraining, replacement of people, and changes to work conditions, argue Professor Andy Smith, School of Psychology, Cardiff University, and Dr Romanas Puisa, Thales Group.

It is well established that arriving at the port, berthing and cargo operations are highly fatiguing. This is especially true of ships where the Master may also stand a watch and may be required to navigate the ship into and out of ports because no pilot is present, writes Prof. Andy Smith, School of Psychology, Cardiff University.

The prevention and management of fatigue require the involvement of relevant stakeholders. One group that appears to require more education about the topic is those involved in the investigation, regulation, and the legal consequences of fatigue-related incidents, explains Prof. Andy Smith, School of Psychology, Cardiff University.