Also agreed Nimmer....the fault lies with those who should be protecting the individual from even approaching the laid down time limits. Unfortunately as we all know the operational management are either too scared to impose the correct measures for fear of jeopardising their own perceived career progress,are in complete thrall to the ‘company’ reputation (a global leader after all let us not forget) or lack the competence to make the decisions.
I have always felt that the first priority of the operational supervisory staff should be to protect their workers from the unfair pressures that come from higher management. A delicate balancing act for them I know but it has become quite evident over the last few years that the balance has shifted massively....you and your licence have to be your own top priority.