Improving Shiftwork Performance

Treatment plant worker

The Approach

PSE assessed shiftwork schedules and work activities of plant operators and supervisors using individual interviews, questionnaires, and naturalistic observations of operators at work.

The Solution

Following the research and analysis, we recommended job redesigns and task reallocations, including changes in shift durations, rotations, and task performance schedules.

PSE then developed a training program emphasizing the sleep and nutrition needs of shiftworkers, especially those on graveyard shifts and during shift rotations.

Benefits

PSE's recommended job redesigns and task reallocations can help reduce worker fatigue and performance deficits and increase worker efficiency, effectiveness, and morale.