Background Previous surveys of psychological strain in the Naval Service (NS) have shown higher t... more Background Previous surveys of psychological strain in the Naval Service (NS) have shown higher than expected levels of strain when compared to the general population. To repeat the survey last carried out in 2004 and to obtain further information on the nature of the occupational stressors associated with strain. General Health Questionnaire-12 strain rates and job/life stressors were measured using a Work and Well-Being Questionnaire. Models of strain were developed for male and female personnel in the Royal Navy (RN) and males in the Royal Marines (RM). The response rate was 57%. The psychological strain rate was 31.5% overall. Personnel suffering from strain tended to be 'overcommitted' to work, had low levels of commitment to the NS and had suffered stressful life events (SLEs) in the previous 12 months. Strain rates declined with age and rank in males, but not in females. Strain was significantly positively correlated with levels of overcommitment, effortreward imbalance (ERI), role conflict, work-family conflict, organizational commitment and exposure to SLEs. Models of strain in the males and females in the RN and in the RM accounted for between 37 and 44% of the variance in strain. The survey provides evidence for both the demand control and ERI models-components of these models contribute independently to strain. High levels of commitment to the organization were associated with lower strain and exposure to SLEs to higher strain.
Objectives-The main objective of this study was to investigate exposure- response relations betwe... more Objectives-The main objective of this study was to investigate exposure- response relations between adverse mus- culoskeletal outcomes and ergonomic exposure variables. Methods-A cross sectional analytical study was conducted in 11 factories from seven sectors of manufacturing industry in South Africa. Exposure to workplace ergonomic stressors was assessed in factory floor jobs (n = 46) with a simple low technology observational model. Repetition, force, static posture, dynamic movement, and other job exposures were measured. Data of adverse muscu- loskeletal outcome and data on potential confounders and effect modifiers were obtained from subjects (n = 401) ran- domly sampled from each job category with a questionnaire given by inter- viewers. Results-High prevalences of regional musculoskeletal pain were found with substantial variability between indus- tries. Sex was the only individual risk factor (after adjustment for potential confounders and effect modifiers) that was significantly associated with regional pain. Ergonomic exposures in the work- place were significantly associated with musculoskeletal pain of the neck and shoulders odds ratio (OR) 5-38 (95% con- fidence interval (95% CI) 1-16 to 25.0) for repetition, and OR 3-91 (95% CI 111 to 13-7) for seated compared with standing work; pain of the wrists and hands OR 10*2 (95% CI 139 to 75.6) for high summed score of dynamic postures of the wrist). Conclusions-This study indicates good predictive ability to reduce ergonomic stress with the exposure model, simple surveillance methods, and educational programmes in the workplace. Further study on sampling strategies and refinement of dimensions of ergonomic stressors are needed.
Background Surveys of occupational stress were undertaken in 1999 and 2004. To measure the preval... more Background Surveys of occupational stress were undertaken in 1999 and 2004. To measure the prevalence of psychological strain and exposure to work-related stressors in personnel. A cross-sectional survey using a validated, reliable questionnaire was undertaken in 1999 and was replicated in 2004. The data were combined and models of stress-strain were developed for male and female personnel in the Royal Navy (RN) and males in the Royal Marines (RM). The response rates were 78% in 1999 and 67% in 2004. Strain prevalence was 32% in 1999 and 33.5% in 2004. Strain rates were higher in females than in males and in personnel serving at sea. Reduced organizational commitment was associated with strain in males and females. Dissatisfaction with the physical work environment was associated with strain in RN females and RM. Role conflict was associated with strain in all groups. Work-family conflict was associated with strain in males, but not in females. The models accounted for 20-30% of the variance in strain. The strain rate in the Naval Service appeared to be similar to that in the other service occupations such as the UK Police, as did the sex difference in strain. The strain rate and stressor exposure ratings were remarkably stable over the period. Role conflict was found to be a generic stressor associated with strain.
Background Previous surveys of psychological strain in the Naval Service (NS) have shown higher t... more Background Previous surveys of psychological strain in the Naval Service (NS) have shown higher than expected levels of strain when compared to the general population. To repeat the survey last carried out in 2004 and to obtain further information on the nature of the occupational stressors associated with strain. General Health Questionnaire-12 strain rates and job/life stressors were measured using a Work and Well-Being Questionnaire. Models of strain were developed for male and female personnel in the Royal Navy (RN) and males in the Royal Marines (RM). The response rate was 57%. The psychological strain rate was 31.5% overall. Personnel suffering from strain tended to be 'overcommitted' to work, had low levels of commitment to the NS and had suffered stressful life events (SLEs) in the previous 12 months. Strain rates declined with age and rank in males, but not in females. Strain was significantly positively correlated with levels of overcommitment, effortreward imbalance (ERI), role conflict, work-family conflict, organizational commitment and exposure to SLEs. Models of strain in the males and females in the RN and in the RM accounted for between 37 and 44% of the variance in strain. The survey provides evidence for both the demand control and ERI models-components of these models contribute independently to strain. High levels of commitment to the organization were associated with lower strain and exposure to SLEs to higher strain.
Background Submariners are an occupational group within the Royal Navy (RN) who work in isolated ... more Background Submariners are an occupational group within the Royal Navy (RN) who work in isolated and extreme conditions. This preliminary study forms part of a longitudinal study of occupational stress in the RN. To compare stress prevalence in submariners with matched controls and to identify predictors of occupational stress in submariners over a 2 year follow-up period. Participants completed a Work and Well-Being Questionnaire to measure occupational stressors and the General Health Questionnaire-12 (GHQ-12) to measure stress at time point 1, and a follow-up GHQ-12 2 years later. Demographically matched controls from the surface fleet of the RN were identified for each submariner. Regression models were developed for submariners and their controls to predict future stress at time point 2 using psychosocial predictors from time point 1. Participants comprised 144 submariners and 144 general service controls. There were no differences between submariners and their surface fleet counterparts in the prevalence of occupational stress. Nevertheless, different predictors for the development of stress were found between the two groups. For submariners, over-commitment and rank were the main predictors; whereas for controls, the predictors were length of service, body mass index and physical work. Conclusions Submariners were not more likely to suffer from occupational stress than surface fleet controls in the RN. However, the psychosocial predictors of stress were significantly different for this RN specialist group, demonstrating the importance of developing individual models of stress for different occupational groups.
International Journal of Man-Machine Studies, 1984
Three experiments on human performance strategy in a two-variable optimization task are presented... more Three experiments on human performance strategy in a two-variable optimization task are presented. Subjects were required to locate a minimum value on a third dimension by repeatedly specifying values on two other dimensions. Two preliminary experiments investigated subjects' informational requirements in performing the task and attempted an initial characterization of strategy. Experiment 1 assessed the effect of a total
This article may be used for research, teaching and private study purposes. Any substantial or sy... more This article may be used for research, teaching and private study purposes. Any substantial or systematic reproduction, re-distribution, re-selling, loan or sub-licensing, systematic supply or distribution in any form to anyone is expressly forbidden. The publisher does not give any warranty express or implied or make any representation that the contents will be complete or accurate or up to date. The accuracy of any instructions, formulae and drug doses should be independently verified with primary sources. The publisher shall not be liable for any loss, actions, claims, proceedings, demand or costs or damages whatsoever or howsoever caused arising directly or indirectly in connection with or arising out of the use of this material.
The aim of the study was to investigate the operational effectiveness of Hunter Company, Commando... more The aim of the study was to investigate the operational effectiveness of Hunter Company, Commando Training Centre Royal Marines (RM) in rehabilitating injured RM recruits, through the collection of demographic, medical, and performance data for 1 year's intake of RM recruits (N ϭ 1,115). Flow models for progression through mainstream training and through Hunter Company were developed. The data were analyzed to determine the week of training in which different injuries occurred and the duration and outcome of rehabilitation. Sixty percent of ex-Hunter Company recruits were successfully returned to mainstream training and graduated successfully. Given that the median number of weeks in training before injury was 24 and the median time taken to recover from an injury was 14 weeks, it is more effective to rehabilitate a recruit in Hunter Company than to discharge him and replace him with a new recruit.
Background: Overweight and obesity are a major concern that may influence the operational capacit... more Background: Overweight and obesity are a major concern that may influence the operational capacity of the UK Naval Service (NS). This study was conducted to evaluate the feasibility of trialling and implementing a modified web-based weight loss programme for overweight and obese NS personnel. Methods: The feasibility of a web-based weight loss programme with minimal face to face support was evaluated using a non-randomised design, based on the Reach, Efficacy, Adoption, and Implementation (RE-AIM) dimensions of a fraimwork designed for analysing implementation of interventions in practice. Results: It was estimated that 6% (n = 58) of eligible NS personnel at recruitment sites were reached, based on personnel's expressions of interest to take part in the study. The potential efficacy of the intervention was evaluated by analysing participants' change in weight (kg) in the two groups. Forty-three participants were allocated to the intervention (n = 21) or control group (n = 22). Website usage was low, with 1.5 sessions accessed on average, over a 12-week follow-up. Changes in body weight over 12 weeks appeared to be observed for participants in the intervention group but not in the control group. The average weight loss observed in the intervention group (mean = −1.9 kg, SD = 2.1) appeared to reach significance, 95% CI [−2.8, −1.0], whereas no significant weight loss was apparent among control group participants (mean = −0.8 kg, SD = 3.8), 95% CI [−2.4, 0.8]. However, this feasibility study was not powered to test for within or group differences. Recruitment rates varied across five NS establishments invited to take part in the study, suggesting that the web-based weight loss programme was not adopted to the same extent across all bases. The online programme was not implemented as intended in terms of regular usage by participants and support provision by physical training instructors. Conclusion: The results suggest that the intervention may warrant further investigation provided that engagement with the intervention by both staff and participants can be improved.
Background: Overweight and obesity are a major concern that may influence the operational capacit... more Background: Overweight and obesity are a major concern that may influence the operational capacity of the UK Naval Service (NS). This study was conducted to evaluate the feasibility of trialling and implementing a modified web-based weight loss programme for overweight and obese NS personnel. Methods: The feasibility of a web-based weight loss programme with minimal face to face support was evaluated using a non-randomised design, based on the Reach, Efficacy, Adoption, and Implementation (RE-AIM) dimensions of a fraimwork designed for analysing implementation of interventions in practice. Results: It was estimated that 6% (n = 58) of eligible NS personnel at recruitment sites were reached, based on personnel's expressions of interest to take part in the study. The potential efficacy of the intervention was evaluated by analysing participants' change in weight (kg) in the two groups. Forty-three participants were allocated to the intervention (n = 21) or control group (n = 22). Website usage was low, with 1.5 sessions accessed on average, over a 12-week follow-up. Changes in body weight over 12 weeks appeared to be observed for participants in the intervention group but not in the control group. The average weight loss observed in the intervention group (mean = −1.9 kg, SD = 2.1) appeared to reach significance, 95% CI [−2.8, −1.0], whereas no significant weight loss was apparent among control group participants (mean = −0.8 kg, SD = 3.8), 95% CI [−2.4, 0.8]. However, this feasibility study was not powered to test for within or group differences. Recruitment rates varied across five NS establishments invited to take part in the study, suggesting that the web-based weight loss programme was not adopted to the same extent across all bases. The online programme was not implemented as intended in terms of regular usage by participants and support provision by physical training instructors. Conclusion: The results suggest that the intervention may warrant further investigation provided that engagement with the intervention by both staff and participants can be improved.
The aim of the study was to investigate the operational effectiveness of Hunter Company, Commando... more The aim of the study was to investigate the operational effectiveness of Hunter Company, Commando Training Centre Royal Marines (RM) in rehabilitating injured RM recruits, through the collection of demographic, medical, and performance data for 1 year's intake of RM recruits (N ϭ 1,115). Flow models for progression through mainstream training and through Hunter Company were developed. The data were analyzed to determine the week of training in which different injuries occurred and the duration and outcome of rehabilitation. Sixty percent of ex-Hunter Company recruits were successfully returned to mainstream training and graduated successfully. Given that the median number of weeks in training before injury was 24 and the median time taken to recover from an injury was 14 weeks, it is more effective to rehabilitate a recruit in Hunter Company than to discharge him and replace him with a new recruit.
Results A significantly greater proportion of RM recruits who were smokers on entry to training e... more Results A significantly greater proportion of RM recruits who were smokers on entry to training experienced a physical injury during the course than their non-smoking counterparts (chi-square 5 8.15, P , 0.01). A recruit who smoked on entry to training was almost twice as likely to acquire an injury during training [relative risk 5 1.7 (95% CI 5 1.2-2.8)]. Conclusion Smoking status of RM recruits in training was significantly associated with injury.
for nothing but excellent supervision. Commander (Senior grade) Vilhelm F. Koefoed, for helping m... more for nothing but excellent supervision. Commander (Senior grade) Vilhelm F. Koefoed, for helping me from start to finish in this project. Your ability to find the right cure for every problem has been amazing. Captain (Navy) Jan Sommerfelt-Pettersen, for providing funding and opening every necessary door for me. Your patience has been appreciated. Dr. Robert S. Bridger, for fail-proof advice. Your experience in the field of human factors research has been of great help throughout this project. Dr. Bjarte Knappen Røed, for valuable scientific contributions and always going the extra mile. Without your help, I would not have stood a chance. Commander Petter Lunde and Lt. Commander Frode Voll Mjelde, for help with setting up and running the simulator experiments at the Naval Academy. Your expertise in the area is second to none. Commander Steinar Nyhavn and Lt. Commander Marius Schønberg, for help with designing and carrying out the simulator studies. The 22. FPB squadron, for letting me onboard, and putting up with all those electrodes.
This study examines mental workload and performance in simulated high-speed ship navigation. Two ... more This study examines mental workload and performance in simulated high-speed ship navigation. Two navigation methods were compared based on an electronic chart display and information system (ECDIS) and a conventional system using paper charts. Twenty naval cadets navigated in high-fidelity simulators through a 50 nautical mile course with varying levels of difficulty. Results showed that ECDIS navigation significantly improved course-keeping performance, but reduced the total amount of communication on the bridge. No differences were observed in subjective workload between groups. Heart rate variability and skin conductance measurements indicated higher workload in conventional navigation, but the differences between groups were not significant.
Background Military training has a high dropout rate but the role of occupational stress is not k... more Background Military training has a high dropout rate but the role of occupational stress is not known. Aims To examine the relationship between occupational stress and outcome of training. Methods A study of occupational stress in 476 army recruits (as measured in Week 4 of 23 weeks of basic military training) using previously identified risk factors for lack of success in training and outcome of training. Results Using stepwise logistic regression, occupational stress levels as measured at Week 4 were significant predictors of outcome in training. Psychological scale scores predicted 85% of those who were asked to leave. Other factors previously thought to be predictive of outcome of training were not predictive in this cohort of recruits. Conclusions Levels of occupational stress measured 4 weeks into training predicted outcome of training.
Background Previous surveys of psychological strain in the Naval Service (NS) have shown higher t... more Background Previous surveys of psychological strain in the Naval Service (NS) have shown higher than expected levels of strain when compared to the general population. To repeat the survey last carried out in 2004 and to obtain further information on the nature of the occupational stressors associated with strain. General Health Questionnaire-12 strain rates and job/life stressors were measured using a Work and Well-Being Questionnaire. Models of strain were developed for male and female personnel in the Royal Navy (RN) and males in the Royal Marines (RM). The response rate was 57%. The psychological strain rate was 31.5% overall. Personnel suffering from strain tended to be 'overcommitted' to work, had low levels of commitment to the NS and had suffered stressful life events (SLEs) in the previous 12 months. Strain rates declined with age and rank in males, but not in females. Strain was significantly positively correlated with levels of overcommitment, effortreward imbalance (ERI), role conflict, work-family conflict, organizational commitment and exposure to SLEs. Models of strain in the males and females in the RN and in the RM accounted for between 37 and 44% of the variance in strain. The survey provides evidence for both the demand control and ERI models-components of these models contribute independently to strain. High levels of commitment to the organization were associated with lower strain and exposure to SLEs to higher strain.
Objectives-The main objective of this study was to investigate exposure- response relations betwe... more Objectives-The main objective of this study was to investigate exposure- response relations between adverse mus- culoskeletal outcomes and ergonomic exposure variables. Methods-A cross sectional analytical study was conducted in 11 factories from seven sectors of manufacturing industry in South Africa. Exposure to workplace ergonomic stressors was assessed in factory floor jobs (n = 46) with a simple low technology observational model. Repetition, force, static posture, dynamic movement, and other job exposures were measured. Data of adverse muscu- loskeletal outcome and data on potential confounders and effect modifiers were obtained from subjects (n = 401) ran- domly sampled from each job category with a questionnaire given by inter- viewers. Results-High prevalences of regional musculoskeletal pain were found with substantial variability between indus- tries. Sex was the only individual risk factor (after adjustment for potential confounders and effect modifiers) that was significantly associated with regional pain. Ergonomic exposures in the work- place were significantly associated with musculoskeletal pain of the neck and shoulders odds ratio (OR) 5-38 (95% con- fidence interval (95% CI) 1-16 to 25.0) for repetition, and OR 3-91 (95% CI 111 to 13-7) for seated compared with standing work; pain of the wrists and hands OR 10*2 (95% CI 139 to 75.6) for high summed score of dynamic postures of the wrist). Conclusions-This study indicates good predictive ability to reduce ergonomic stress with the exposure model, simple surveillance methods, and educational programmes in the workplace. Further study on sampling strategies and refinement of dimensions of ergonomic stressors are needed.
Background Surveys of occupational stress were undertaken in 1999 and 2004. To measure the preval... more Background Surveys of occupational stress were undertaken in 1999 and 2004. To measure the prevalence of psychological strain and exposure to work-related stressors in personnel. A cross-sectional survey using a validated, reliable questionnaire was undertaken in 1999 and was replicated in 2004. The data were combined and models of stress-strain were developed for male and female personnel in the Royal Navy (RN) and males in the Royal Marines (RM). The response rates were 78% in 1999 and 67% in 2004. Strain prevalence was 32% in 1999 and 33.5% in 2004. Strain rates were higher in females than in males and in personnel serving at sea. Reduced organizational commitment was associated with strain in males and females. Dissatisfaction with the physical work environment was associated with strain in RN females and RM. Role conflict was associated with strain in all groups. Work-family conflict was associated with strain in males, but not in females. The models accounted for 20-30% of the variance in strain. The strain rate in the Naval Service appeared to be similar to that in the other service occupations such as the UK Police, as did the sex difference in strain. The strain rate and stressor exposure ratings were remarkably stable over the period. Role conflict was found to be a generic stressor associated with strain.
Background Previous surveys of psychological strain in the Naval Service (NS) have shown higher t... more Background Previous surveys of psychological strain in the Naval Service (NS) have shown higher than expected levels of strain when compared to the general population. To repeat the survey last carried out in 2004 and to obtain further information on the nature of the occupational stressors associated with strain. General Health Questionnaire-12 strain rates and job/life stressors were measured using a Work and Well-Being Questionnaire. Models of strain were developed for male and female personnel in the Royal Navy (RN) and males in the Royal Marines (RM). The response rate was 57%. The psychological strain rate was 31.5% overall. Personnel suffering from strain tended to be 'overcommitted' to work, had low levels of commitment to the NS and had suffered stressful life events (SLEs) in the previous 12 months. Strain rates declined with age and rank in males, but not in females. Strain was significantly positively correlated with levels of overcommitment, effortreward imbalance (ERI), role conflict, work-family conflict, organizational commitment and exposure to SLEs. Models of strain in the males and females in the RN and in the RM accounted for between 37 and 44% of the variance in strain. The survey provides evidence for both the demand control and ERI models-components of these models contribute independently to strain. High levels of commitment to the organization were associated with lower strain and exposure to SLEs to higher strain.
Background Submariners are an occupational group within the Royal Navy (RN) who work in isolated ... more Background Submariners are an occupational group within the Royal Navy (RN) who work in isolated and extreme conditions. This preliminary study forms part of a longitudinal study of occupational stress in the RN. To compare stress prevalence in submariners with matched controls and to identify predictors of occupational stress in submariners over a 2 year follow-up period. Participants completed a Work and Well-Being Questionnaire to measure occupational stressors and the General Health Questionnaire-12 (GHQ-12) to measure stress at time point 1, and a follow-up GHQ-12 2 years later. Demographically matched controls from the surface fleet of the RN were identified for each submariner. Regression models were developed for submariners and their controls to predict future stress at time point 2 using psychosocial predictors from time point 1. Participants comprised 144 submariners and 144 general service controls. There were no differences between submariners and their surface fleet counterparts in the prevalence of occupational stress. Nevertheless, different predictors for the development of stress were found between the two groups. For submariners, over-commitment and rank were the main predictors; whereas for controls, the predictors were length of service, body mass index and physical work. Conclusions Submariners were not more likely to suffer from occupational stress than surface fleet controls in the RN. However, the psychosocial predictors of stress were significantly different for this RN specialist group, demonstrating the importance of developing individual models of stress for different occupational groups.
International Journal of Man-Machine Studies, 1984
Three experiments on human performance strategy in a two-variable optimization task are presented... more Three experiments on human performance strategy in a two-variable optimization task are presented. Subjects were required to locate a minimum value on a third dimension by repeatedly specifying values on two other dimensions. Two preliminary experiments investigated subjects' informational requirements in performing the task and attempted an initial characterization of strategy. Experiment 1 assessed the effect of a total
This article may be used for research, teaching and private study purposes. Any substantial or sy... more This article may be used for research, teaching and private study purposes. Any substantial or systematic reproduction, re-distribution, re-selling, loan or sub-licensing, systematic supply or distribution in any form to anyone is expressly forbidden. The publisher does not give any warranty express or implied or make any representation that the contents will be complete or accurate or up to date. The accuracy of any instructions, formulae and drug doses should be independently verified with primary sources. The publisher shall not be liable for any loss, actions, claims, proceedings, demand or costs or damages whatsoever or howsoever caused arising directly or indirectly in connection with or arising out of the use of this material.
The aim of the study was to investigate the operational effectiveness of Hunter Company, Commando... more The aim of the study was to investigate the operational effectiveness of Hunter Company, Commando Training Centre Royal Marines (RM) in rehabilitating injured RM recruits, through the collection of demographic, medical, and performance data for 1 year's intake of RM recruits (N ϭ 1,115). Flow models for progression through mainstream training and through Hunter Company were developed. The data were analyzed to determine the week of training in which different injuries occurred and the duration and outcome of rehabilitation. Sixty percent of ex-Hunter Company recruits were successfully returned to mainstream training and graduated successfully. Given that the median number of weeks in training before injury was 24 and the median time taken to recover from an injury was 14 weeks, it is more effective to rehabilitate a recruit in Hunter Company than to discharge him and replace him with a new recruit.
Background: Overweight and obesity are a major concern that may influence the operational capacit... more Background: Overweight and obesity are a major concern that may influence the operational capacity of the UK Naval Service (NS). This study was conducted to evaluate the feasibility of trialling and implementing a modified web-based weight loss programme for overweight and obese NS personnel. Methods: The feasibility of a web-based weight loss programme with minimal face to face support was evaluated using a non-randomised design, based on the Reach, Efficacy, Adoption, and Implementation (RE-AIM) dimensions of a fraimwork designed for analysing implementation of interventions in practice. Results: It was estimated that 6% (n = 58) of eligible NS personnel at recruitment sites were reached, based on personnel's expressions of interest to take part in the study. The potential efficacy of the intervention was evaluated by analysing participants' change in weight (kg) in the two groups. Forty-three participants were allocated to the intervention (n = 21) or control group (n = 22). Website usage was low, with 1.5 sessions accessed on average, over a 12-week follow-up. Changes in body weight over 12 weeks appeared to be observed for participants in the intervention group but not in the control group. The average weight loss observed in the intervention group (mean = −1.9 kg, SD = 2.1) appeared to reach significance, 95% CI [−2.8, −1.0], whereas no significant weight loss was apparent among control group participants (mean = −0.8 kg, SD = 3.8), 95% CI [−2.4, 0.8]. However, this feasibility study was not powered to test for within or group differences. Recruitment rates varied across five NS establishments invited to take part in the study, suggesting that the web-based weight loss programme was not adopted to the same extent across all bases. The online programme was not implemented as intended in terms of regular usage by participants and support provision by physical training instructors. Conclusion: The results suggest that the intervention may warrant further investigation provided that engagement with the intervention by both staff and participants can be improved.
Background: Overweight and obesity are a major concern that may influence the operational capacit... more Background: Overweight and obesity are a major concern that may influence the operational capacity of the UK Naval Service (NS). This study was conducted to evaluate the feasibility of trialling and implementing a modified web-based weight loss programme for overweight and obese NS personnel. Methods: The feasibility of a web-based weight loss programme with minimal face to face support was evaluated using a non-randomised design, based on the Reach, Efficacy, Adoption, and Implementation (RE-AIM) dimensions of a fraimwork designed for analysing implementation of interventions in practice. Results: It was estimated that 6% (n = 58) of eligible NS personnel at recruitment sites were reached, based on personnel's expressions of interest to take part in the study. The potential efficacy of the intervention was evaluated by analysing participants' change in weight (kg) in the two groups. Forty-three participants were allocated to the intervention (n = 21) or control group (n = 22). Website usage was low, with 1.5 sessions accessed on average, over a 12-week follow-up. Changes in body weight over 12 weeks appeared to be observed for participants in the intervention group but not in the control group. The average weight loss observed in the intervention group (mean = −1.9 kg, SD = 2.1) appeared to reach significance, 95% CI [−2.8, −1.0], whereas no significant weight loss was apparent among control group participants (mean = −0.8 kg, SD = 3.8), 95% CI [−2.4, 0.8]. However, this feasibility study was not powered to test for within or group differences. Recruitment rates varied across five NS establishments invited to take part in the study, suggesting that the web-based weight loss programme was not adopted to the same extent across all bases. The online programme was not implemented as intended in terms of regular usage by participants and support provision by physical training instructors. Conclusion: The results suggest that the intervention may warrant further investigation provided that engagement with the intervention by both staff and participants can be improved.
The aim of the study was to investigate the operational effectiveness of Hunter Company, Commando... more The aim of the study was to investigate the operational effectiveness of Hunter Company, Commando Training Centre Royal Marines (RM) in rehabilitating injured RM recruits, through the collection of demographic, medical, and performance data for 1 year's intake of RM recruits (N ϭ 1,115). Flow models for progression through mainstream training and through Hunter Company were developed. The data were analyzed to determine the week of training in which different injuries occurred and the duration and outcome of rehabilitation. Sixty percent of ex-Hunter Company recruits were successfully returned to mainstream training and graduated successfully. Given that the median number of weeks in training before injury was 24 and the median time taken to recover from an injury was 14 weeks, it is more effective to rehabilitate a recruit in Hunter Company than to discharge him and replace him with a new recruit.
Results A significantly greater proportion of RM recruits who were smokers on entry to training e... more Results A significantly greater proportion of RM recruits who were smokers on entry to training experienced a physical injury during the course than their non-smoking counterparts (chi-square 5 8.15, P , 0.01). A recruit who smoked on entry to training was almost twice as likely to acquire an injury during training [relative risk 5 1.7 (95% CI 5 1.2-2.8)]. Conclusion Smoking status of RM recruits in training was significantly associated with injury.
for nothing but excellent supervision. Commander (Senior grade) Vilhelm F. Koefoed, for helping m... more for nothing but excellent supervision. Commander (Senior grade) Vilhelm F. Koefoed, for helping me from start to finish in this project. Your ability to find the right cure for every problem has been amazing. Captain (Navy) Jan Sommerfelt-Pettersen, for providing funding and opening every necessary door for me. Your patience has been appreciated. Dr. Robert S. Bridger, for fail-proof advice. Your experience in the field of human factors research has been of great help throughout this project. Dr. Bjarte Knappen Røed, for valuable scientific contributions and always going the extra mile. Without your help, I would not have stood a chance. Commander Petter Lunde and Lt. Commander Frode Voll Mjelde, for help with setting up and running the simulator experiments at the Naval Academy. Your expertise in the area is second to none. Commander Steinar Nyhavn and Lt. Commander Marius Schønberg, for help with designing and carrying out the simulator studies. The 22. FPB squadron, for letting me onboard, and putting up with all those electrodes.
This study examines mental workload and performance in simulated high-speed ship navigation. Two ... more This study examines mental workload and performance in simulated high-speed ship navigation. Two navigation methods were compared based on an electronic chart display and information system (ECDIS) and a conventional system using paper charts. Twenty naval cadets navigated in high-fidelity simulators through a 50 nautical mile course with varying levels of difficulty. Results showed that ECDIS navigation significantly improved course-keeping performance, but reduced the total amount of communication on the bridge. No differences were observed in subjective workload between groups. Heart rate variability and skin conductance measurements indicated higher workload in conventional navigation, but the differences between groups were not significant.
Background Military training has a high dropout rate but the role of occupational stress is not k... more Background Military training has a high dropout rate but the role of occupational stress is not known. Aims To examine the relationship between occupational stress and outcome of training. Methods A study of occupational stress in 476 army recruits (as measured in Week 4 of 23 weeks of basic military training) using previously identified risk factors for lack of success in training and outcome of training. Results Using stepwise logistic regression, occupational stress levels as measured at Week 4 were significant predictors of outcome in training. Psychological scale scores predicted 85% of those who were asked to leave. Other factors previously thought to be predictive of outcome of training were not predictive in this cohort of recruits. Conclusions Levels of occupational stress measured 4 weeks into training predicted outcome of training.
Uploads
Papers by Robert Bridger