Fatigue risk management: A case study

Shiftwork is a common activity across oil and gas operations. One of the biggest threats associated with shiftwork is fatigue-related impairment. While the relationship between fatigue and safety risk are widely acknowledged, the practical implications and management practices within the oil and gas industry are not well understood, practiced or monitored. This paper will explore the prevalence and nature of fatigue-related impairment in a small population of oil and gas workers. Data will be presented on actual work hours, sleep quality and quantity, and the relationship with performance impairment. Data was collected using questionnaires, work, sleep and symptom diaries, wrist activity monitors and psychomotor vigilance tasks using a hand held palm pilot. The results portray the difference in risk profile across a two week period of 12-hour night shifts, contrasted against a twoweek period of 12-hour day shifts. The results draw attention to high-risk periods across a shift work roster, and propose targeted management strategies using the hierarchy of control. The paper concludes with areas for further research and industry collaboration.