Everyone involved in IRB operations should be aware of the potential for fatigue—this includes those involved in on-water duties, as well as those responsible for supervising and managing operations personnel.
Fatigue is the state of extreme tiredness resulting from either physical or mental activity. Fatigue tends to be cumulative. The only cure for fatigue is sleep.
Causes of fatigue may include one, or any combination of the following:
- environmental conditions including rain, wind and extremes of temperature
- sea conditions including surf size and choppy waves
- extended work hours, either as part of normal employment, volunteer activities, or leisure activities
- physically or mentally challenging work
- poor, broken or insufficient sleep—recommendations vary between regulators and health authorities, but between six to eight hours of quality sleep is recommended in every 24-hour period
- ill health, including minor illnesses such as cold, hay fever or influenza
The following are signs and symptoms of fatigue:
- Headache
- Feeling drowsy
- Blurred vision
- Difficulty keeping the eyes open
- Head nodding
- Yawning excessively
- Repeatedly going off task, e.g., straying from a course, forgetting what you were doing, not being alert to changing conditions, delay in answering questions/responding to a radio call.
Fatigue Management Suggestions
- Don’t operate an IRB for excessive periods of time without a break
- Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration
- Dress appropriately to protect yourself from extreme weather conditions (wet suit, spray jacket, sun protections etc.)
- Make sure you eat regular meals
- Ensure quality sleep in every 24-hour period
- Take more regular breaks during extreme weather conditions (e.g. hot, humid, cold, raining, or windy weather)
- Take more regular breaks when the surf conditions are large or choppy
- Avoid operating an IRB when you are feeling unwell
- If you are feeling physically or mentally fatigued, take a break
