Sleep problems and psychosocial work environment among Swedish commercial pilots

Abstract

Background: The aim of this study was to assess relationships between sleeping problems and the psychosocial work situation based on the job-strain and iso-strain models among Swedish commercial pilots. Methods: Three hundred fifty-four pilots participated (61%), who are in 2008 responded to a questionnaire concerning sleep problems, the psychosocial work situation, personal factors, and flight length. Results: Low social support was associated with sleep problems for pilots. High demands were associated with sleep problems among captains and long-haul flights were associated with sleep problems among first officers. Low skill discretion was associated with less sleep problems among first officers. Conclusions: Psychosocial climate at work such as low social support affects negatively sleep for both captains and for first officers. More research on what creates a best social support for pilots and cabin crew is needed. Adjusting scheduling work crew teams could increase social support at work and contribute to a better sleep quality. © 2011 Wiley-Liss, Inc.