Fatigue In Fly In Fly Out Operations

Abstract

This paper discusses the potential implications of fly-in, fly-out (FIFO) operations is respect of fatigue on the health and performance of individual employees and the operational safety and efficiency in such oil and gas operations. Several studies have shown that there is an association between working hours, shift work and workers’ health, alertness and performance. Fly-in, fly-out (FIFO) operations transport individuals temporarily to and from the worksite in geographically remote areas, crossing multiple time zones, instead of relocating the employee and their family. Following travel to a different time zone or a change from day shift to night shift, the circadian clock changes and needs time to adjust. During this adjustment period, employees’ alertness and decision-making ability is affected. FIFO workers invariably work shifts, with a 12-hour shift pattern being the most common, particularly in the offshore sector, with individuals often working without rest days during their tour of duty. This paper defines fatigue, explores its impact on human physiology and introduces the challenges that fatigue presents for both workers and their families in the context of FIFO operations. Careful planning, travel management, diet, sleep environment, lifestyle management, and other important factors are necessary to address fatigue. Fatigue management systems need to be comprehensive and multidisciplinary in nature. Strong leadership support and stakeholder involvement are crucial elements in the implementation of a fatigue risk management system. In addition, training at both the management and operator level is critical to implement fatigue risk controls to adequately address the aspects of FIFO operations both in and outside the workplace. The paper introduces an IPIECA-IOGP guidance document which provides managers with an outline of the fatigue issues inherent in FIFO operations and guidance on: the nature of fly-in, fly-out operations, travel, fatigue risk management systems, training, accommodation, sleep and fitness for task in relation to FIFO operations. The document includes an extensive and detailed checklist for all personnel with related responsibilities on how to manage FIFO operations and a fatigue impairment checklist for supervisors.

US research needs related to fatigue, sleep, and working hours among oil and gas extraction workers

“…However, guidance developed by industry experts reflects an understanding of the interrelationships between shiftwork, fatigue, and commuting, offering strategies for using FRM principles to mitigate crash risks at work and while commuting. 36,107,108 Except for a few North Sea studies that compared sleep quality and duration for offshore workers who worked overtime compared to standard 12-h shifts, 55,56,95 Insomnia:…”

“…The US definition of a work‐related crash excludes those that occur while commuting, 106 so no national data on commuting‐related crashes exist. However, guidance developed by industry experts reflects an understanding of the interrelationships between shiftwork, fatigue, and commuting, offering strategies for using FRM principles to mitigate crash risks at work and while commuting 36,107,108 …”