Citation

Wilde GJS, Stinson JF. Accid. Anal. Prev. 1983; 15(2): 87-93.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1983, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

About three out of four train collisions and derailments (other than at level crossings) have been found to be due to deficiencies in operator performance. Although the evidence regarding the precise nature of these deficiencies is unclear, monotony and frequently low task demands together with adverse organismic and workplace conditions suggest that lack of vigilance may be a major underlying factor. Existing principles of countermeasure equipment aiming at monitoring wakefulness are reviewed, analyzed and evaluated. A new design concept is introduced. The proposed device does not only attempt to assure that the locomotive crew is awake but actually pays attention to important cues in the task of controlling a train. The possible application in workstations other than locomotive cabs is pointed out.