A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF SCHEDULES FOR STANDING WATCHES ABOARD SUBMARINES BASED ON BODY TEMPERATURE CYCLES

Abstract

A new watch schedule was proposed for use on naval vessels at sea. This schedule requires three watches of 3-, 3- and 2-hour durations by each section of the crew, and provides a continuous period off duty of 10 to 12 hours. This schedule was compared with the present system of four-hour watches separated by eight hours off duty (4 on - 8 off schedule). Comparisons were made during two short cruises and during two long simulated war patrols. The rapidity with which the men adapted to the schedules was determined by means of oral temperature cycles, which also afford an indication of the alertness and efficiency of men on watch. On the basis of the body temperature studies, the proposed schedule was found to be a definite improvement over the present one. Subjective reactions to the proposed schedule were obtained from the men, and suggestions for overcoming the chief sources of complaint are made.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Mar 24, 1949
Accession Number
AD0667707

Entities

People

  • George D. Ludwig
  • Robert A. Utterback

Organizations

  • Naval Medical Research Center

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Biomedical
  • Ground and Sea Platforms

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Biomedical Research
  • Body Temperature
  • Efficiency
  • High Temperature
  • Human Behavior
  • Low Temperature
  • Measurement
  • Observation
  • Observers
  • Physiology
  • Psychological Phenomena And Processes
  • Psychology
  • Ships
  • Situational Awareness
  • Submarines
  • Undersea Warfare
  • Wakefulness

Fields of Study

  • Psychology

Readers

  • Brain and Cognitive Science; Experimental Psychology; Cognitive Neuroscience
  • Maritime and Naval Warfare Studies
  • Systems Analysis and Design