0173 Improving Well-being by Changing the Shiftwork Schedules at U.S. Navy Watchfloors

Abstract Introduction Watchfloors provide around-the-clock information, intelligence, and technical support to the U.S. military. Active-duty service members (ADSMs) working on these 24/7 watchfloors stand watches include night shifts and/or frequent shift rotations. Tailoring shiftwork schedules optimize individual sleep patterns may reduce negative effects of shiftwork. The purpose this study was test whether a new schedule would improve ADSM well-being sleep. Methods ADSMs (N=79; 83.5% males, 91.2% enlisted, 19 54 years age) participated in two-phase quasi-experimental longitudinal assess before after implementation schedule. Both involved three rotating shifts: day (0730-1530), evening (1320-2330), (2330-0730). old had 5 successive days on-shift (5-on/4-off) 4 (4-on/4-off). Shifts rotated every off period. Standardized questionnaires were administered while participants (study start) ~5 months switching included Pittsburg Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), Insomnia Severity (ISI), Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), Profile Mood States (POMS). monitored using wearable devices (ŌURA rings). Results POMS total mood disturbance scores lower (i.e., better) (p< 0.001), as several sub-scale including tension depression anger (p=0.014), confusion vigor (p=0.029). There statistical trend for decrease ISI from (p=0.067). duration, PSQI, ESS did not differ between (all p>0.05). Conclusion Implementation that tailored worker associated with decreased disturbance, improvement states (e.g., tension), reduced insomnia symptom severity. Also, research team received anecdotal reports high levels satisfaction This demonstrates positive real-world basic circadian methods tailor military personnel. Support (if any)