Effect of Shift Schedules on Firefighter Sleep Outcomes

Abstract Objective To descriptively compare sleep outcomes between fire agencies utilizing different shift configurations. Methods Firefighters employed by three departments utilizing a 24/48, 48/96, 4 Platoon system (4P) and a control group of day shift first responders completed the Emergency Service Sleep Diary and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) to compare sleep quantity and quality outcomes. Results After controlling for differences in nighttime emergency call volume, the 24/48 resulted in less on-duty sleep time than the 48/96, whereas the 4P was similar to 24/48. The 24/48 displayed greater total PSQI scores than all other shift configurations. Conclusions Sleep quantity and quality were worse among firefighters working a 24/48 shift compared to some shifts. Many firefighters across shifts did not obtain the recommended amount of sleep on- and off-duty.