FAA addresses air traffic controller fatigue
15/07/2011
Air traffic controllers in the US will now be subject to new fatigue regulations, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has announced.
Concerns had previously been raised that the workers were not given enough time between shifts to head to bed and get enough hours of shut-eye.
As a result, the FAA has joined forces with the National Air Traffic Controllers Association to compile a set of rules that will benefit both the controllers' sleep habits and public confidence.
"Air traffic controllers have the responsibility to report rested and ready to work so they can safely perform their operational duties," commented FAA administrator Randy Babbitt.
Single staffing will now be reduced on the midnight shift, and workers will be able to listen to the radio and read material as traffic permits between 10am and 6pm.
Policies are also expected to be developed that will help workers seek treatment for sleep apnoea, which could be affecting their ability to rest properly.
Posted by Michael Ewing
