Critical Factors in Sonar Operation: A Survey of Experienced Operators
Abstract
A survey questionnaire was administered to 538 sonar operators (surface and submarine) of various rates and experience to investigate and document their perceptions of: (a) factors important to sonar operation, (b) job stressors, and (c) operational problems. Results indicated a high level of agreement among sonar operators across types of service and rate. Primary factors rated as very important to sonar operation included: ability to stay alert, ability to integrate visual and auditory information, fatigue, work cycle factors, one's motivation to perform, quality of equipment, and amount of sea experience. The most commonly nominated stressors were fatigue, length of sea tour, length of watch, poor leadership, and collateral duties. Operational problems most frequently noted were poor leadership, lack of sleep, collateral duties, and visitors in sonar. Overall, the results suggest that greater consideration be given to issues of fatigue, workload, attention, the quality of supervision in sonar, and training that includes realism, teamwork, and increased classification efficiency.... Sonar, Man/machine interfacing, Human factors.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 1991
- Accession Number
- ADA258924
Entities
People
- David A. Kobus
- Lawrence J. Lewandowski
Organizations
- Naval Health Research Center