The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration is preparing to launch a fatigue management study of union drivers.

The study, to be conducted by the Motor Freight Carriers Assn. (MFCA), will survey some 2,000 Teamster drivers who operate on overnight runs. Researchers will gather detailed information on items such as the nature of their job, what helps them cope, the challenges, how much and how long the drivers sleep, their physical condition, the use of naps, and the impact of other road users on their alertness.
A sample of drivers will wear actigraphy watches to monitor sleep/wake behaviors identified in the survey as being most likely to mitigate fatigue and maintain alertness during nighttime operations.
In a 2002 appropriations bill, Congress directed FMCSA to conduct a Truck Drivers’ Fatigue Management Survey with an organization representing unionized motor carriers in cooperation with their labor organization. Congress appropriated $400,000 for the project and MFCA was awarded the contract last year.
FMCSA is currently seeking routine approval for the study from the Office of Management and Budget and has invited interested parties to comment. Comments are due July 29.
For more information, see the May 30 Federal Register which can be accessed via www.gpoaccess.gov.