Human performance as a function of the work-rest ratio during prolonged confinement.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the feasibility of using a 4-hours-on-duty and 2-hours-off-duty schedule in the operation of advanced aerospace systems. Two B-52 combat-ready crews were confined for 15 days in a simulated advanced system crew compartment and were tested with a battery of five performance tasks and four psychophysiological measures. Data obtained during two 15-day testing periods are summarized in the main body of this report. Additional performance data obtained from five studies using college student subjects are presented in appended sections of this report. These results are based on four 96-hour investigations (two with a 4-on and 2-off schedule and two with a 6-on and 2-off schedule) and one 120-hour control group study (4 hours per day, 5 days per week, for 6 weeks). With proper control of selection and motivational factors, crews can work effectively for periods of at least two weeks and possibly longer using a 4 -on and 2-off work-rest schedule.