Optimising Work and Rest Schedules

Determining optimal work rest schedules can enhance or prolong performance during physically demanding work. Due to Optimal Performance Limited’s (OPL) extensive experience of working with the Military and Emergency Services we have a strong understanding of the demands placed upon personnel. This experience helps identify limitations to performance during prolonged or repeated bouts of work.

We have used data gathered on physical performance during simulated job tasks to help prescribe safe working procedures for Police Officers and Ambulance Personnel during CBRN operations and Fire Fighters during live fire, search and rescue activities.

Our capabilities in this area include:

  • Field and laboratory based monitoring of up to 50 individuals using our own equipment, with live feedback and/or logging of data
  • Range of field and laboratory measurements including: heart rate, core and skin temperature, oxygen uptake, body composition, pulmonary function and energy expenditure. For full list and details see technical expertise page
  • Using data to underpin policy to set safe work and rest schedules.

Example Optimal Work and Rest Schedules projects:

Carter JC, Wilkinson DM, Richmond VL, Blacker SD, Rayson MP. (2008) Core Temperature, Recovery and Re-Deployment during a Firefighting, Search and Rescue Scenario. Optimal Performance Ltd., Bristol, UK, 18/2008: December 2008

Carter J, Rayson MP, Wilkinson DM, Richmond V, Blacker S, Nevill AM. (2005) Strategies to Combat Heat Strain During and After Emergency Service Activities. Optimal Performance Ltd., Bristol, UK, 19 January 2005

Rayson MP, Wilkinson DM, Carter J, Richmond V, Blacker S. (2005) Physiological Assessment of Emergency Service Personnel performing Civil Resilience Scenarios in an alternative Personal Protective Ensemble. Optimal Performance Ltd., Bristol, UK, 18 March 2005

Rayson MP, Wilkinson DM, Carter J, Richmond V, Blacker S. (2004) Physiological Assessment of Police Officers during CBRN Operations. Optimal Performance Ltd., Bristol, UK, 9 July 2004