Approaches to Fatigue Management: Where We Are and Where We’re Going

Systems used to manage fatigue within workplaces can be conceptualised as existing on a spectrum—from prescriptive, compliance-based systems, through to risk-based systems (i.e., Fatigue Risk Management Systems (FRMS)). Traditional, prescriptive approaches are relatively straightforward to manage, but can mistake compliance for safety. Comparatively, risk-based approaches can manage fatigue-related risk, regardless of prescriptive limitations, and can afford significantly greater operational flexibility. However, these systems generally require significant organisational resources. In recent years there has been a trend towards the implementation of “hybrid” models. Generally, within a hybrid model, organisations can operate freely within a prescriptive envelope, but need to demonstrate a safe (risk-based) system of work when additional flexibility is desired. However, fatigue management strategies differ based on industry and jurisdiction, and there are significant cultural factors in play impacting which fatigue management systems are supported at the regulatory level. This chapter presents an overview of key current fatigue management strategies and gives insight into novel future options.