Operators found fatigue management as a continuing operational safety risk. Maintenance staff may avoid reporting fatigue because they fear they could lose personal income from reduced work and opportunities.
Operators raised the following causes for fatigue:
- long periods away from home
- tough working conditions
- environmental stress such as extreme heat
- long work days
- unscheduled maintenance extending duty time
- limited rest
- not enough breaks.
What can operators do?
You should:
- understand the fatigue risks linked to assigned tasks
- identify hazards related to fatigue and alertness
- assess and manage these risks through your Safety Management System (SMS), using clear hazard identification and effective controls
Fatigue risk isn't just about sleep — it can also come from the work environment. Maintenance activities can add further human performance risks, including:
- urgent tasks
- extreme temperatures and dehydration
- fumes or other environmental conditions
- poor visibility
- changing weather
- limited automation
- unfamiliar work areas
- loud noise or vibration.
What are we doing and what have we already delivered?
We provide guidance, procedures and rules to help improve fatigue management in aviation, including:
- fatigue management guidance
- medical assessment requirements
- human factors guidance for maintenance staff.
You can find this information in: