Human Element in Maritime Accidents: Fatigue, Workload, and Crew Resource Management on Indonesian Vessels

The human element remains the most critical and most complex variable in maritime accident causation, with seafarer fatigue, excessive workload, and inadequate Crew Resource Management (CRM) consistently identified as the primary contributory factors in incidents ranging from groundings and collisions to cargo mishandling and man-overboard tragedies. This study investigates the relationship between fatigue, workload distribution, and CRM effectiveness among Indonesian seafarers operating aboard domestic and international vessels, proposing an evidence-based CRM training model for maritime academies and shipping operators. Employing a qualitative research design with thematic analysis, the study engaged maritime accident investigators, shipboard safety officers, occupational health specialists, and maritime education academics as primary respondents. Findings reveal an overall human element risk management composite score of 3.94 out of 5.00, with fatigue detection and management protocols and CRM communication effectiveness identified as the most critically deficient domains. The research demonstrates that Indonesian seafarers face disproportionate fatigue exposure attributable to understaffing practices, irregular watch scheduling, and inadequate rest period enforcement. The study contributes an evidence-based CRM training model directly applicable to STIP Jakarta's maritime safety education curriculum and Indonesian shipping company safety management systems.