Human factors studies of the working hours of UK ship's pilots. 1. A field study of fatigue.
A group of seven ship pilots working irregular hours was studied by means of ambulatory-monitored electrocardiograms and intermittent measurements of oral temperature, skin conductance, reaction time, and self-ratings of subjective feelings. It can be concluded that the type of pilotage described is liable to produce very long 'home to home' travel time (possibly 12 to 18 h), and that the erratic pattern of working hours cuts across the pilots' nychthemeral physiological and social rhythms. In consequences, pilots are often at a low level of activation or arousal when eventually aboard ships (although they undoubtedly succeed in maintaining adequate behavioural efficiency) and they require lengthy periods in which to recuperate from relatively short spells of actual pilotage. When trade is 'normal' there is generally a fair possibility of ensuring rest between acts of pilotage but there is no reserve of pilots to cope with any sudden increase in demand for their services. Although the subjects studied were fit middle-aged men, many others are older, or less fit, and in some circumstances there could be adverse effects on maritime safety and individual health and well-being. The situation could feasibly deteriorate was quite inadequate, or to one where the individual pilot was hardly ever free from concern about the possibility of totally unpredictable calls.
Cook
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Department of Occupational Psychology, Birkbeck College, University of London, UK.
Shipley
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