This project investigated whether a 40-minute nap opportunity on a night shift helped Air Traffic Controllers maintain their performance and remain alert to the end of the shift, which occurred as the last shift in a rapid counterclockwise rotating roster. Although the sleep obtained was relatively short (average 18-minutes) and was of poor quality, it was associated with improved reaction time performance and fewer signs of sleepiness at the end of the night shift. The project formed part of Leigh Signal’s PhD thesis research.

Investigators: Leigh Signal and Philippa Gander

Collaborators: Airways New Zealand

PhD Thesis: Dr Leigh Signal (2002). Scheduled napping on the night shift: consequences for the performance and neurophysiological alertness of air traffic controllers.

Funding: HRC Training Fellowship, HRC Limited budget grant, Airways New Zealand