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Train drivers' sleep and alertness during short relay operations.
Nicole Lamond1, David Darwent, Drew Dawson
1The Centre for Sleep Research, The University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia. nicole.lamond@unisa.edu.au
Applied Ergonomics
|April 28, 2005
Summary
Train drivers on short relay operations in Australia obtained sufficient sleep (8-12 hours) in crew vans to maintain alertness. Scheduling sleep opportunities between 10 PM and 7 AM is crucial for optimal driver performance.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Sleep Science
- Transportation Safety
Background:
- Recent expansion of relay working operations in Australia.
- Concerns regarding sleep duration and alertness deficits in train drivers during relay work.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the sleep behavior and alertness of train drivers on short relay operations.
- To determine if sleep obtained in crew vans is adequate for maintaining alertness.
Main Methods:
- Study involved 15 train drivers working short (<48 hours) relay operations.
- Sleep behavior was monitored, and alertness was assessed using vigilance tasks before and after shifts.
Main Results:
- Drivers obtained 8-12 hours of sleep during the approximately 40-hour relay trip.
- Drivers reported increased alertness after sleep periods.
- Sustained attention was maintained during vigilance tasks.
Conclusions:
- Sleep obtained in crew vans during short relay operations appears sufficient for maintaining driver alertness.
- Shift scheduling should prioritize sleep opportunities between 2200 and 0700 hours to maximize alertness.