COMDTINST 3500.2
(2) Modulating Risk Factors.
(a)
High Workload. Sustained high workload compromises endurance because higher
energy expenditure is needed to fulfill task demands. Research also shows that
maintaining high workload for sustained periods of time can lead to `burnout', which
is a chronic state of endurance compromise.
(b)
Lack of Control over Work Environment. Research shows that individuals who have
(or perceive) little control over their work conditions experience higher levels of
stress, lower performance, and lower job satisfaction, and are detached from their job.
As a result, they expend greater amounts of energy to perform their job.
(c)
Exposure to Extreme Environments. The body must expend higher amounts of energy
to protect itself from extreme conditions. For example, the body uses extra energy to
heat itself when cold, and to maintain balance in heavy seas. Sustained exposure to
extreme environments requires more energy, and increases the potential for injury and
negative health consequences.
(d)
Poor Diet. Foods high in carbohydrates, fat and sugar induce drowsiness and promote
sleepiness. Potatoes, rice, dairy products, turkey and foods high in sugar can induce a
biochemical reaction in the brain that promotes sleepiness. These foods should be
avoided during night operations, when sleepiness is already elevated due to circadian
rhythms. Vegetables, fruits, whole-grain foods, fish and poultry are healthier and
promote alertness.
(e)
Lack of Exercise. Exercise promotes sleep and aids in replenishing energy stores.
Physically fit individuals burn less energy when performing their job, and replenish
energy more efficiently during sleep.
(f)
High Stress. Although stress can actually improve performance in the short term, by
releasing hormones that prepare an individual to act, these same hormones, sustained
at high levels, can actually debilitate and paralyze an individual. Three sources of
stress are particularly relevant for CG operations: (1) work stress, (2) family stress,
and (3) isolation from family. All three require higher amounts of energy to maintain
focus and performance; hence, if they are sustained over long periods, they can
compromise endurance. In addition, stress disrupts sleep so that full restoration of
physical and mental resources is not possible.
(1) Work Stress. Time pressure, pace of work, volume of work, communication,
interpersonal relations, and environmental conditions all contribute to work stress.
These sources of stress can degrade endurance and job performance.
(2) Family Stress. Child and parent care, finances, marital problems, conflict with
others, and poor support systems are examples of family stress that can
compromise endurance. Crewmembers confronting these stressors should be
identified and offered support programs.
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