Air Traffic Control
India’s air traffic controllers are reportedly once again dangerously overstretched, with staffing gaps and heavy workloads cited as a systemic flight safety concern. In the United States, government shutdowns are being described as a potential fatigue risk that could force safety-critical staff to work without pay. Meanwhile, a public discussion has emerged around fatigue management in low-cost carrier operations, raising questions about how scheduling pressure affects crew alertness and rest. And in Europe, the European Cockpit Association (ECA) has been highlighting how chronic understaffing and intense scheduling pressure are pushing flight crews to their limits and making them reluctant to report safety concerns.
During the summer, the
European Cockpit Association (ECA) recently relaunched its
“Flying tired is not safe” campaign, raising renewed concern over the safety risks posed by pilot fatigue across Europe. The campaign underscored how chronic understaffing, tight schedules, and frequent disruptions are pushing flight crews to their limits, raising serious concerns about operational safety.
Results from a pilot survey cited in the campaign found that a large proportion of respondents felt commercial or organisational pressure not to report fatigue. The survey also indicated that three out of four European pilots had experienced at least one microsleep while operating an aircraft in the past month, and 73% reported not getting sufficient rest between shifts. The ECA is urging pilots to resist the inappropriate use of Commander's Discretion to routinely extend duty times and to use formal reporting processes.
An opinion piece in the Hindustan Times highlights ongoing concerns about fatigue and workload among India's air traffic controllers. Following a near-miss, the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) cited high workload and stress as contributing factors. Persistent staffing shortages have led the Airports Authority of India (AAI) to request repeated exemptions from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), a practice critics argue undermines fatigue-related protections.
In the United States, the KWQC network reports an impending government shutdown could disrupt federal operations, including air traffic control and airport security. Controllers and other essential personnel would be required to work without pay, a situation previously linked to stress and fatigue.
Across Asia, M9 News notes that AirAsia Group CEO Tony Fernandes defended a cabin crew member seen sleeping on duty at the airline’s Kuala Lumpur headquarters, suggesting rest can help maintain alertness during long shifts. The episode has renewed attention on fatigue risk management practices within low-cost carriers.
Aviation (Flight Crew)
India’s aviation regulator, the DGCA, has made several temporary adjustments to flight and duty time limits and released a draft Fatigue Risk Management System (FRMS) proposal. Pilot associations, including ALPA India, have raised concerns that these steps could reduce rest protections. In Europe, research continues to link precarious employment with lower fatigue reporting—a trend that may affect safety culture.
According to the
Hindustan Times, the
Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) in India has temporarily extended flying duty time and Flight Duty Period (FDP) limits for two-pilot
Boeing 787 operations. The
Air Line Pilots’ Association India (ALPA India) argues that increasing the limit from 10 to 10.5 hours raises fatigue risk and reduces necessary rest, especially given limited seat recline for captains on that aircraft type. The
Times of India reports that the
DGCA also extended existing night-duty hour limits ahead of new FDTL rules, allowing more landings between midnight and 6 a.m., while requiring twice the usual rest afterward.
As reported by
The Core, the
DGCA has introduced a draft FRMS framework designed to complement prescriptive FDTL regulations with software-based assessments and self-reporting tools.
ALPA India has expressed concern that the optional system could grant airlines excessive discretion and potentially weaken protections recently reinforced by a
Delhi High Court ruling on pilot rest. The
New Indian Express notes that the
DGCA has also proposed new rest-time norms for cabin crew in line with
ICAO guidance, introducing annual flight-hour caps and minimum rest requirements.
In the
European Union, a Ghent University study cited by
Travel Daily News found that 10.3% of aircrew work under atypical contracts, most commonly in low-cost or wet-leasing carriers. The research indicates these employees experience greater job insecurity and report being less willing to raise fatigue or safety concerns. In
Germany,
Travel Noire cites a
Vereinigung Cockpit survey showing that 93% of pilots admitted to falling asleep while on duty, with respondents pointing to heavy schedules and staffing gaps as contributing factors. Finally,
Taiwan News reports that
Taiwan’s CAA Deputy Director-General
Lin Chun-liang has been holding bilateral meetings at the
ICAO Assembly on air traffic management, flight safety, and crew fatigue.
Fatigue Detection Devices and Technologies
The tech news suggests a strong, evolving market for tools that prevent and predict fatigue. We’re seeing software-only fatigue monitoring expand into new sectors like trucking, alongside academic studies that validate next-day fatigue prediction using data collected by wearables. At the same time, the physical intervention market—like anti-fatigue matting—is growing steadily, driven by rising global ergonomics awareness and industrial expansion, particularly across North America and Asia-Pacific.
The global
anti-fatigue mat market is expected to grow from US$1.44 billion in 2024 to US$2.30 billion by 2035, according to
Industry Today. This growth is driven by greater workplace awareness of the musculoskeletal risks for employees who stand for long periods. Manufacturers like Ansell Ltd, 3M Company, and Kimberly-Clark Corporation are responding with innovations such as gel-based infills and recyclable materials to enhance both comfort and sustainability.
Meanwhile,
NewsTrail reports the wider anti-fatigue mat market could reach approximately US$32.1 billion by 2034. Demand is spurring growth across industrial, commercial, healthcare, and residential settings. Leading companies like Wearwell LLC and Notrax are focusing on product differentiation and expanding custom offerings in response to the rising global focus on workplace safety standards.
In the Australian market,
Industry Update notes that workplace safety specialists Global Spill & Safety have added industrial anti-fatigue and safety matting from Notrax to their product line. This move reflects a continuous effort to provide a growing range of safety solutions for demanding operational environments.
Shifting to
fatigue monitoring software,
CCJ Digital covers how Fatigue Science released its software-only "Readi" solution for the trucking industry following a successful pilot with Canada-based carrier Day & Ross. The system integrates with Platform Science / PeopleNet data, allowing dispatchers to proactively monitor fatigue risk up to 18 hours in advance—a critical measure since the US Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration attributes
13% of large truck crashes to driver fatigue.
In the Indonesian
mining sector,
Kompas.id reports that PT Bukit Asam (PTBA) has reduced fatigue-related incidents by integrating
monitoring technologies like MDVRs, speed alarms, and GPS tracking. This use of technology and AI, discussed at a recent panel, has cut fatigue-related accidents from six in 2023 to three in 2025, demonstrating the practical safety benefits of fleet technology integration.
For the commercial vehicle industry,
What Van? describes the forthcoming Trakm8 RH600 Plus telematics camera system, which uses AI and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) to improve fleet safety. The system does more than simple video recording; it monitors driver actions like head and eye movement to provide real-time alerts for fatigue, aiming for proactive risk management.
Academic research highlights the precision of fatigue prediction: a study led by Newcastle University in the UK and published in
Frontiers demonstrated the feasibility of accurately predicting next-day fatigue. The researchers used machine-learning models trained on physiological and behavioral features collected from wearable devices on individuals with post-COVID fatigue, achieving high prediction accuracy based on metrics like heart-rate variability.
Expanding on
non-invasive sensors,
Bioengineer describes a soft magnetoelastic sensor developed by researchers that accurately detects fatigue in real time by measuring subtle eye movements. This novel device, which adheres to the eyelid, uses a convolutional neural network for signal analysis and achieved 96.4% accuracy in identifying fatigue, providing a continuous monitoring solution for various high-risk settings.
Similarly,
ZME Science reports that researchers from the University of Washington in the United States and Dongguk University in South Korea have developed
smart glasses to non-intrusively monitor fatigue. They use embedded carbon nanotube-paper composite sensors. These lightweight sensors track eye blinks and closures, offering objective data to warn workers in high-risk jobs, like long-haul drivers, about fatigue in a practical, real-world application.
Looking at the broader impact of connected safety,
EH&S Online reports that VelocityEHS executive Blake McGowan outlined the shift toward
predictive and prescriptive safety strategies driven by AI, automation, and integrated data systems at the 2025 NSC Safety Congress & Expo. Key technologies like AI-powered sensors in oil and gas and
wearable fatigue-tracking devices in logistics are moving safety from reactive reporting toward real-time risk mitigation.
The industrial sector is increasingly adopting assistive technologies, with
OH&S Online noting that
wearable exosuits and
smart sensors are being implemented to reduce physical strain and cognitive load for aging workers in the United States. These tools aim to mitigate the skilled-labor shortage by extending careers and enhancing safety through the reduction of musculoskeletal disorder risks in physically demanding jobs.
However, this adoption raises
legal considerations, as manufacturing companies increasingly mandate wearables, leading to compliance challenges regarding employee data.
CBIA highlights that the
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires employers to ensure that biometric data collection is job-related and necessary. They advise companies like Robinson+Cole to consult legal counsel to ensure compliance.
In a related legal advisory,
RS Web Solutions stresses that manufacturers must store medical data collected by wearables securely and separately. Privacy concerns also arise from GPS tracking and the potential for devices like smart glasses to record sensitive areas. Compliance with federal and state regulations regarding anti-discrimination and data security is essential for successfully deploying these technologies in the workplace.
Driving
Driver fatigue management was a top theme across multiple regions this month, spanning new legislation, AI-enabled monitoring, education campaigns, and regulatory crackdowns. Authorities in the United States, Australia, and Singapore all pushed forward with fatigue-related reforms, while new technologies emerged from India to Europe and Mexico, showcasing innovation in detection and prevention. The overall trend points to a clear move toward blending regulation, technology, and behavioral change to shape the next phase of road safety and fleet operations.
The
Ministry of Manpower Singapore addressed worker transport safety in a parliamentary reply, clarifying that vehicular incidents occur both on the road and on-site. The response detailed measures under the Workplace Safety and Health Act, including traffic-management plans, fatigue management, and grants that support the adoption of safety technologies, all coordinated with the
Ministry of Transport Singapore. (
Ministry of Manpower Singapore)
Meanwhile, in
Australia, the Heavy Vehicle National Law Amendment Bill 2025 introduces a new offense for driving while “unfit to drive,” which now explicitly covers fatigue, illness, or substance use. The reforms also streamline accreditation, expand regulator powers, and elevate penalties, reinforcing the essential role of Safety Management Systems in heavy-vehicle operations. (
Holder & Edlich)
Across
Australia, the
National Heavy Vehicle Regulator issued repeat warnings about fatigue, revealing that nearly half of all offenses recorded last year were fatigue-related. Chief Operations Officer
Paul Salvati stressed that fatigue remains a primary safety risk, urging drivers to stick to rest rules and use confidential reporting lines to prevent serious incidents. (
Power Torque,
Big Rigs)
Further underscoring the role of human factors, the
National Truck Accident Research Centre found that fatigue and inattention now cause more than 60% of major truck losses. This prompted renewed calls for better driver training and enhanced fatigue-monitoring systems. (
Australian Truck Radio)
In
New Zealand,
TruckSafe New Zealand is helping operators apply the Alternative Fatigue Management Scheme established by
Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency. This scheme allows for more flexible work-rest schedules under strict safety controls. The framework supports fatigue prevention through policy design, audits, and ongoing operator engagement. (
NZ Trucking)
Turning to the
United States, the
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration introduced the most extensive fatigue-related reforms in a decade, extending rest breaks, mandating fatigue programs, and enforcing electronic logging to improve compliance and reduce fatal truck crashes. (
NewsGram)
Complementing these efforts, data from
AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety and
NHTSA show that fatigue contributes to a significant portion of fatal truck crashes in the U.S., with annual social and economic costs exceeding $100 billion. Experts also highlight persistent underreporting and regional disparities in outcomes. (
The Sun (Nigeria))
In
India, a team from
Delhi University developed a camera-based device that detects driver drowsiness and carbon-monoxide buildup, issuing real-time alerts to prevent accidents. The project, led by
Suhani Chaddha and mentored by
Prof. Shubhra Gupta, demonstrates growing academic interest in low-cost fatigue prevention tools. (
The Daily Jagran)
In
South Africa,
MasterDrive CEO
Eugene Herbert emphasized that fatigue remains a leading cause of trucking accidents, urging operators to balance technology with behavioral countermeasures. The article highlights the need for training, rest planning, and fatigue reporting to reduce high crash rates linked to drowsy driving. (
Arrive Alive)
Across
Mexico, AI-enabled trucks developed with
MAN now integrate fatigue and alcohol-impairment detection, pedestrian alerts, and adaptive cruise control to help curb rising road fatalities. The initiative, supported by the
Mexican Institute of Transportation, reflects the region’s growing adoption of advanced driver monitoring in freight operations. (
Union Rayo)
In
Europe, the “2026 Safety Playbook” compiled by
Fleet Europe and the
International Fleet Managers Institute showcases telematics-driven risk management, ADAS integration, and culture-based fatigue training as core elements of safer fleet operations. The catalogue emphasizes achieving measurable performance through leading indicators and training outcomes. (
FleetEurope)
Meanwhile,
Zego launched a “Rest” feature in its Sense app to monitor fatigue and adjust insurance premiums accordingly. The telematics-based system promotes safer driving by linking rest data to personalized rates, which reflects a broader trend of integrating fatigue metrics into mobility insurance models. (
Fintech Global)
In
Australia, the WHG TechDRIVE showcase highlighted the growing role of AI, wearables, and video telematics in managing operational risk and fatigue. Speakers from
WHG,
TCA, and
VTA outlined progress toward connected safety ecosystems for transport operators. (
Prime Mover Magazine)
New trucking safety reforms in both the
UK and
US converge on fatigue reduction through rest-hour regulation and monitoring technology. The
UK framework tightens hour limits and enforces tachograph compliance, while the
US focuses on ELD expansion and advanced braking mandates, reflecting different approaches to a shared challenge. (
FleetPoint)
Finally, U.S.-based
Vinli launched the Velona platform, an AI-driven fleet management system that tracks fatigue, maintenance, and cost indicators using modular “agent” tools. By interpreting telematics and driver data, the platform aims for proactive risk reduction rather than a reactive response. (
Telematics Wire)
Light Rail
Fatigue management and staff wellbeing are still central issues for the light rail sector this quarter. UK networks are tackling scheduling pressures and driver fatigue through new technology, collaborative best practice, and ongoing labour negotiations. The drive for AI-enabled monitoring and smarter rostering shows a clear focus on operational safety, staff welfare, and delivering a reliable service.
Edinburgh Trams has adopted a wearable fatigue-monitoring device, which was developed with
Integrated Human Factors and supported by a £1 million Scottish government-backed AI programme. Business Minister
Richard Lochhead and
Rhona Allison of
Scottish Enterprise highlighted this as part of wider efforts to help SMEs use AI tools to boost workforce support and operational efficiency. (
Daily Business Group)
Meanwhile, the
Light Rail Engineering Group and
Light Rail Operators Committee met in Birmingham to swap best practices on fatigue management, rostering, and driver wellbeing. Chaired by
Marilena Papadopoulou of
Edinburgh Trams and
Steve Mabey of
KeolisAmey Metrolink, the sessions reviewed software tools and data on rising self-reported fatigue. This led to plans for a national Rostering Best Practice framework. (
UKTram)
Across
Greater Manchester, the
Unite union is balloting over 300
KeolisAmey Metrolink drivers on potential strike action focused on working conditions.
Transport for Greater Manchester has urged both parties to discuss the issues to prevent disruption, as fatigue and scheduling concerns reflect the broader challenge of balancing safety and service reliability. (
BBC News)
Mining
Recent mining news highlights the growing focus on fatigue risk, psychosocial health, and the environmental factors shaping workforce safety. From technological tools to legislative reforms and cultural initiatives, regions across the globe are applying new strategies to reduce accident rates and mental strain. Research continues to link external stressors, like air pollution and cognitive fatigue, with preventable incidents, pushing the sector toward more integrated safety management systems.
A study by Yonsei University analysed 5,873 Chinese industrial accidents and found that doubling fine-particle pollution (PM2.5) increases the risk of fatal incidents by 2.6 times, particularly in coal mining. The research links air pollution to fatigue and slower cognitive response in hazardous environments, suggesting new connections between air-quality policy and workplace safety (
ScienceBlog).
Meanwhile, commentary in the
Canadian Mining Journal argues that many digital safety systems in mining fail because they aren't adapted to the realities of the site. Over-alerting and poor design can induce mental fatigue, causing operators to ignore critical warnings in complex, high-noise environments.
Across Australia, Hexagon’s Operator Alertness System deployed at MMG’s Rosebery mine has cut severe fatigue events by 81%. By using facial and blink-rate monitoring, the system supports real-time fatigue detection while highlighting the importance of data feedback and operator engagement for long-term success (
Safe To Work).
In another development, the Mining and Energy Union in Australia has criticised Queensland’s Coroners Amendment Bill for overlooking off-site mining-related deaths, such as post-shift vehicle incidents. The union calls for stronger fatigue and mental-health management alongside a more preventive regulatory approach (
Mirage News).
Globally, the mining fatigue-monitoring market is forecast to double by 2031, led by Honeywell, Hexagon, and Guardhat. This growth reflects rising regulatory scrutiny and technological investment in wearables and AI-based fatigue detection across both underground and surface mining operations (
OpenPR).
At the cultural level, Acting Consulting Training Australia and the MARS Program have launched “Hindsight,” a theatre initiative supported by major firms, including BHP, Gold Fields, and Northern Star Resources, to improve psychosocial safety in Western Australian mining. The production addresses fatigue, bullying, and psychological distress, aligning with legislative reforms targeting psychosocial hazards (
Mining.com.au).
Finally, the International Council on Mining and Metals (ICMM) has introduced modular tools to improve psychological health and fatigue management across operations. The initiative encourages integrating mental-health risk into standard safety systems, supported by data from Mates in Construction and Safe Work Australia showing high mental-stress rates in mining (
Mining.com.au).
Port Workers
Two major reports from New Zealand highlight coordinated efforts between unions and port operators to address fatigue among stevedores. The launch of a structured fatigue risk management project at Port of Auckland signals a maturing approach to worker wellbeing in 24/7 maritime operations, supported by scientific expertise and industry-wide collaboration.
Maritime Union of New Zealand (MUNZ) and
Port of Auckland have launched a joint initiative to tackle stevedore fatigue through a new Fatigue Risk Management System. A five-day workshop, facilitated by Australian consultancy
Chronosafe, brings together workers, union representatives, and management to identify fatigue hazards and develop a science-based framework for safer shift patterns, reports
Scoop.
Meanwhile,
Transport Talk notes that the same partnership between
Port of Auckland and
MUNZ includes a five-day risk assessment workshop led by
Chronosafe, engaging both workers and management. The project responds to long-standing union advocacy on the dangers of extended hours and aims to strengthen fatigue awareness through expert-led training on sleep and circadian health.
