open access
Vol 60, No 1-2 (2009)
Original article
Published online: 2009-12-17
Submitted: 2013-02-18
Get Citation
Comparison of alertness levels in ship crew. An experiment on rotating versus fixed watch schedules
Shalini Arulanandam, Gregory Chan Chung Tsing
International Maritime Health 2009;60(1-2):6-9.
open access
Vol 60, No 1-2 (2009)
MARITIME MEDICINE Original articles
Published online: 2009-12-17
Submitted: 2013-02-18
Abstract
A short pilot study was conducted during a shipboard training deployment to compare alertness levels in
the same crew members while working a fixed watch schedule, and then a rotating watch schedule.
Alertness levels were assessed before and after each duty watch using measurements of oculomotor
function (Fitness Impairment Tester). Saccadic velocity was shown to have the greatest correlation with
duration of sleep deprivation and was significantly slower (indicating decreased alertness) in the crew
working the rotating watch schedule than the crew working the fixed watch schedule. This pilot study
corroborates previous studies’ recommendations that fixed watch schedules allow better acclimatization
of sleep patterns, thus minimizing fatigue and increasing operational alertness.
Abstract
A short pilot study was conducted during a shipboard training deployment to compare alertness levels in
the same crew members while working a fixed watch schedule, and then a rotating watch schedule.
Alertness levels were assessed before and after each duty watch using measurements of oculomotor
function (Fitness Impairment Tester). Saccadic velocity was shown to have the greatest correlation with
duration of sleep deprivation and was significantly slower (indicating decreased alertness) in the crew
working the rotating watch schedule than the crew working the fixed watch schedule. This pilot study
corroborates previous studies’ recommendations that fixed watch schedules allow better acclimatization
of sleep patterns, thus minimizing fatigue and increasing operational alertness.
Get Citation
About this articleTitle
Comparison of alertness levels in ship crew. An experiment on rotating versus fixed watch schedules
Journal
Issue
Article type
Original article
Pages
6-9
Published online
2009-12-17
Bibliographic record
International Maritime Health 2009;60(1-2):6-9.
Authors
Shalini Arulanandam
Gregory Chan Chung Tsing