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A literature review and qualitative research into the types of roster patterns and the measures to manage fatigue used on ro-ro and ro-pax vessels.

The objectives were to understand the:

• various types of seafarer roster and shift patterns and how they differ by route and operators, plus the impact of different roster patterns on seafarer fatigue and welfare
• quality and duration of rest available to, or experienced by, seafarers, and the impact on seafarer fatigue and welfare.
• factors that are taken into consideration when designing roster and shift patterns and why
• measures and the effectiveness of those measures taken by ferry operators to manage seafarers:
  • shorter-term sleepiness
  • longer-term fatigue
  • potentially reduced vigilance

These findings are one of 2 sets of research that will form part of the evidence base for updating the Seafarers Charter.

A literature review involves reading all existing information on a topic in order to:

1. ascertain the current status of that topic.
2. discover new or previously overlooked insights on a topic.

Fieldwork was conducted by the external research bodies of the:

• behavioural insights team
• transport research laboratory

Fieldwork was conducted between February and May 2023. The research wascommissioned by the Department for Transport.