MPC MPC Helps Shortline Railroads ID Ways to Cut Fatigue-Related Injuries
Posted: Jul 1, 2019
Work shifts that place shortline railroad workers at risk for fatigue-related injuries as well as strategies for avoiding those injuries were identified in MPC research at the University of Denver. A sample of work schedules and sleep diaries were obtained from the shortline railroad industry and analyzed for the likelihood of risk for fatigue-related accidents. Results indicate standard night shifts, working from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m., had the greatest risk of fatigue. More importantly, models used by the researchers showed that by modifying the work schedules to include strategic naps could result in a significant reduction in fatigue risk. These changes could help shortline railroads ensure that work schedules do not exceed the fatigue threshold recommended by Federal Railroad Administration.
Work shifts that place shortline railroad workers at risk for fatigue-related injuries as well as strategies for avoiding those injuries were identified in MPC research at the University of Denver. A sample of work schedules and sleep diaries were obtained from the shortline railroad industry and analyzed for the likelihood of risk for fatigue-related accidents. Results indicate standard night shifts, working from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m., had the greatest risk of fatigue. More importantly, models used by the researchers showed that by modifying the work schedules to include strategic naps could result in a significant reduction in fatigue risk. These changes could help shortline railroads ensure that work schedules do not exceed the fatigue threshold recommended by Federal Railroad Administration.