Shift workers sought for new study

The human body clock is designed to be awake/ work during the day and sleep during the night. Shift work is therefore ‘at odds’ with our body clocks, resulting in increased fatigue, poor sleep and wellbeing and increased risks of workplace accidents.

Monash University is starting a trial, using strategic light exposure to help shift workers’ body clocks adapt better to shift work, improving alertness, sleep and wellbeing. In a world-first, we are moving beyond one-size-fits-all approaches to provide personalized methods tailored to each individual’s body clock.

Monash University is currently looking for shift workers who are:

1. aged between 18-65 years;
2. on average per month, work at least 4 night shifts (≥ 6 hours worked between 2200h – 0800h) OR 4 early morning shifts (defined as starting work before 0700); and
3. have a roster pattern incorporating ≥ 3 consecutive night/ early morning shifts.

The study involves:

• ~ 8 weeks of daily sleep & light monitoring with daily tasks (5 mins/day);
• Objective body clock assessments (2 times during study); and
• Following lighting recommendations that are tailored for your body clock (portable devices will be provided).

Participants will be reimbursed ~$425 for study completion.  All tasks will occur in the context of participants’ usual lives, meaning individuals do not need to visit a laboratory.

Interested?

The study will begin in mid-2022. Register your interest here

Questions?

Email base.switch@monash.edu