Developing an evidence-based crewing model that aligns staffing regulations with real operational workload in European inland waterway transport.
The inland waterway sector in Europe has undergone significant transformation over the past few decades. The existing crewing regulations, over thirty years old, no longer account for the technological advancements, the aging workforce, and the growing need for labour mobility across European borders. Despite a consensus among social partners that workload should be a central factor in any new regulations, a comprehensive, evidence-based foundation was lacking.

The project highlighted the importance of integrating workload considerations into crewing regulations, addressing the impact of modern technology and an ageing workforce. The findings emphasized the need for improved training programs and competency frameworks to ensure that crew members are prepared for evolving tasks. Additionally, the project underscored the necessity of updating regulatory frameworks to reflect workload-based assessments across the inland waterway sector. The recommended actions include implementing a modern crewing instrument, developing targeted training programs, and reviewing current regulations to align with contemporary operational demands.