Boat Crew Handbook - Crew Fatigue

Vocabulary-based flashcards covering the hazards, symptoms, responsibilities, and prevention of crew fatigue according to the Boat Crew Handbook.

Fatigue

Mental and physical conditions during rough weather operations that dramatically reduce powers of observation, concentration, and judgment.

Causes of Fatigue

Factors including extreme weather, eye strain, physical effort for balance, stress, noise, sun exposure, poor conditioning, lack of sleep, and boredom.

Coxswain's Primary Responsibility

Ensuring the safety and welfare of the crew by recognizing stress signs and fatigue and taking corrective action.

Crewmember Fatigue Monitoring

The act of watching each other's ability to respond to normal conversation and complete routine tasks to prevent excessive fatigue.

Symptoms of Fatigue

Inability to focus, mental confusion, decreased coordination of motor skills/sensory ability, increased irritability, decreased performance, and decreased concern for safety.

Fatigue-Induced Attitude

A "don't care" type of attitude that can lead to faulty decisions and shortcuts that threaten mission safety.

Preventive Measures for Fatigue

Actions such as adequate rest, appropriate dress, rotating crew duties, providing food and refreshments, and observing others for signs of fatigue.