A Modified Work Schedule for UAS Teams

Daniel J. Hall, Jr.

ASCI 638 – Human Factors in Unmanned Systems

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Worldwide

July 1, 2014

A Modified Work Schedule for UAS Teams

In order to optimize operations and reduce fatigue in unmanned aerospace system (UAS) team members the author analyzed the Squadron’s current shift schedule.  Currently, the Squadron has four UAS teams assigned to operate the MQ-1B on a continuous basis.  An analysis of the current schedule revealed the UAS teams were assigned to a rotating shift schedule of six days of work followed by 2 days off.  Each work day during the scheduled period was broken down into three, 8.5 hour shifts (Day, Swing, and Night shift).  As each team completed their eight day, work/off cycle they were rotated to the next shift.  The author believes there are several human factors built into the current schedule that may be causing the extreme fatigue and inadequate sleep experienced by the UAS teams.

The first human factor lies in the rotating nature of the schedule itself.  As the UAS teams rotate through the three different shifts during the scheduled period they are unable to establish a circadian rhythm.  According to Orlady and Orlady (1999), “It can take from several days to more than a week to adjust to major changes” (p. 300) in circadian rhythm.  The author suggests that crews be assigned to the same shift schedule for the entire scheduled period.  This allows the teams to adjust to and remain on a circadian rhythm by providing a stable, predictable, and consistent work/off schedule.  Synchronizing one’s circadian rhythm ensures individual team members are alert during work periods while getting adequate rest during their off period.

The second human factor that may be causing the extreme fatigue is the six days of work followed by the two days off cycle.  Typically, a normal, long term work schedule consists of five days of work followed by two days of rest.  The author suggests the current schedule of six days of work followed by two days of rest may lead to a condition known as chronic fatigue.  “Since workers in shift systems require more time to recover than those working only day shifts, the observed chronic fatigue is likely reflective of continued inadequate opportunity for restorative sleep” (Miller, Tvaryanas, Platte, Swigart, & Colebank, 2008, p. 20).  In other words, the two day off period is not enough to ensure adequate rest and recovery in light of the six day work week and rotating shift cycle.

In order to optimize operations and reduce fatigue in Squadron’s UAS teams, the author has designed a modified work schedule to meet the Squadron’s 24/7, 365 days a year requirements while also ensuring adequately rested UAS teams.  The modified work schedule is centered on a three day, 12.5 hour shift scheduled followed by three days off.  Additionally, the swing shift has been eliminated and each crew will be permanently assigned to either the day or night shift.  These modifications are designed to ensure each UAS team is synchronized with their circadian rhythm by adapting to and remaining on a predictable work schedule.  An example of the modified work schedule is provided in Appendix A.  The pros and cons of this modified work schedule are outlined below:

Pros:

·         Provides a stable, predictable, and consistent work schedule of three days on and three days off during the scheduled period

·         Teams remain on the same shift during the scheduled period

·         Teams adapt to and remain on a set circadian rhythm during the scheduled period

·         Shifts begin and end at natural transition periods of the day – early in the morning and early in the evening

·         Reduces the total number of work days per the scheduled period – 12 versus 18

·         Reduces the total number of work hours per the scheduled period – 150 versus 153

·         Doubles the total number of days off per the scheduled period – 12 versus 6

·         Three day off period allows for more complete rest for team members while improving quality of life

·         Proposed schedule is close to complying with recently enacted FAA regulations for manned aviation crew duty / crew rest guidelines

Cons:

·         Increased work day – 12.5 hours versus 8.5 hours

·         Reduced amount of time between the end of one shift and the start of the next during scheduled work periods – 11.5 hours versus 15.5 hours

·         Reduced amount of work hours per the scheduled period – 150 versus 153

·         Reduced shift options – Day or night only, no swing shift

References

Miller, N.L., Tvaryanas, A.P., Platte, W., Swigart, C., & Colebank, J. (2008, January). A resurvey of shift work-related fatigue in MQ-1 Predator unmanned aircraft system crewmembers. Monterey, CA: Naval Postgraduate School.

Orlady, H.W., & Orlady, L.M. (1999). Human factors in multi-crew flight operations. Burlington, VT: Ashgate Publishing Company.

Appendix A 

Modified Work Schedule for UAS Teams