Abstract
Introduction
Fatigue Risk Management Systems (FRMS) are increasingly being used in a range of safety-critical industries to manage fatigue-related risk. These data-driven practices use a risk-based approach to managing fatigue, rather than solely relying on prescriptive hours of work limits. However, some organisations are reluctant to implement FRMS as evidence of effectiveness is unclear. A review was undertaken to evaluate the available evidence on FRMS effectiveness, and to provide evidence-based policy guidance for FRMS use and implementation.
Methods
Seven electronic databases (MEDLINE (Ovid), PsycINFO, IEEE Xplore Digital Library, Scopus, Web of Science, MESH Occupational Health, NIOSHTIC II) were searched for relevant peer reviewed and grey literature. Documents were included if they addressed fatigue management interventions. Screening was performed on a total of 2129 documents, with 231 included in the final review.
Results
Few (n = 5) documents evaluated FRMS as a whole. However, components of FRMS (e.g., performance monitoring, fatigue detection technology, prior sleep wake behaviour assessment) appeared to improve key safety and fatigue outcomes.
Discussion
The effectiveness of FRMS components suggests that FRMS as a whole is likely to improve organisational safety outcomes. Key implementation enablers included organisational and worker commitment, and safety culture. Where organisations have limited resources and/or immature safety cultures, FRMS may not be appropriate. As such, we propose that a hybrid or transitional model of fatigue management (including risk-based and prescriptive components) could be implemented – so organisations can increase operational flexibility while improving safety.