Fire Fighter Fatigue Management Program: Operation Fight Fatigue

All firefighters in the experimental group and controls will be asked to complete an approximately 30 minute education session. This education session will split into two modules, module 1: an introduction to the program along with basic sleeps hygiene information and module 2: standard training. Topics covered in module 2 will include basic sleep physiology, the causes and consequences of sleep disorders, and fatigue countermeasures. We will emphasize strategies to maximize sleep and reduce fatigue both on and off work.

Firefighters in the intervention districts will complete a sleep disorders screening questionnaire. The questionnaire will focus on identifying individuals who show increased likelihood of suffering from obstructive sleep apnea, insomnia, shift work disorder, and restless legs syndrome using validated screening tools. Those assessed to be at high risk for one of these sleep disorders will be referred to a local AASM-accredited Clinical Sleep Disorders Service for evaluation and, if necessary, treatment. Diagnosis and treatment of sleep-related disorders will reduce the risk of fatigue-related accidents and improve the health and safety of affected individuals.

First, we will review and retrofit the sleeping quarters to provide a better environment for napping and sleep; light, noise, bed type, space, temperature, and location would all be considered and where possible, changes made to improve the sleeping environment. Secondly, we will work with management and union personnel to develop a 'sleep friendly' policy during the daytime, with specified protected times for naps during the day before the overnight work in order to reduce sleepiness during overnight work. Finally, we will upgrade the alerting systems, that is, we will work with management and union personnel to consider changing the policy that requires the sleeping areas of all stations to receive all alarm calls, even if that particular station is not required to attend the alarm.