Chronobiological considerations in shiftworker sleep and performance and shiftwork scheduling

Abstract

The time shifts imposed on workers by shiftwork schedules affect both worker sleep and performance. Associated disruptions of circadian rhythms can result in performance decrements during night (third) shift hours. These decrements can be worsened by the effects of sleep deprivation secondary to the biological rhythm disruption experienced by night workers. Chronobiological considerations should be included in shift scheduling to minimize the potentially detrimental effects of shiftwork on sleep and performance.