Shift Schedule Change From 24/48 to 1/3/2/3 Improves Markers of Stress and Quality of Life in Career Firefighters.

Abstract

This study seeks to better understand the impact of schedule change on physiological and self-report measures of stress and quality of life among career firefighters. This study examined the impact of a schedule change from 24/48 to a 24-hour on/72-hour off, 48-hour on/72-hour off (i.e., 1/3/2/3) shift rotation on markers of stress among career firefighters over a 7-month period. Physiological measures such as salivary biomarkers (cortisol, testosterone, testosterone-to-cortisol ratio, interleukin-6) and blood pressure as well as self-reported survey instruments for occupational stress and job satisfaction were assessed throughout the study. By the end of the study, participants demonstrated significantly lower salivary cortisol concentrations, improved quality of life, and better sleep quality. These findings suggest that transitioning to a 1/3/2/3 schedule may reduce physiological stress and improve quality of life among career firefighters.