Fatigue at sea: hidden risks for seafarers

Fatigue and poor mental health can put seafarers and ships at risk. A new report by the Sustainable Shipping Initiative (SSI), based on 68 sources, links poor crew welfare to safety risks and possible financial losses. Reported by Splash 247 .

Heavy workloads and crew shortages may encourage seafarers to change their work and rest records, hiding violations. A 2024 World Maritime University study found that 64.3% of surveyed seafarers said they sometimes changed these records when they exceeded the allowed limits. Also, between a quarter and a third do not feel safe reporting mistakes or raising concerns.

A recent survey found that only 49% of seafarers said their last vessel had enough crew to work safely without excessive fatigue. Gard’s 2026 report also identifies stress, fatigue and heavy workloads as factors in onboard injuries. Illness accounted for almost 60% of Gard’s crew claims in 2025.

SSI says insurers and lenders should consider crew welfare when assessing risks. However, more research is needed before welfare indicators can be used alone to predict future claims or financial performance.

Fatigue can have serious consequences. Five years ago, a general cargo ship ran aground on Bulgaria’s rocky Yailata coast after the second officer on watch fell asleep.

 

Picture: Shutterstock / Anatoly Menzhiliy