For the first time, this study systematically tested in a within-subject design the efficacy of increased intensity and blue-enriched light exposure to enhance alertness in rapidly rotating night shift workers in an operational occupational setting. The study has shown that exposure to a higher intensity light with increased blue light content enhances subjective alertness and objective performance at the middle and end of the night shift. The team selected a dual-faceted lighting intervention (increased intensity and blue wavelength composition) to induce maximal improvements in alertness, and to be readily translated into practice. Improvements in alertness and performance seen in this study provide support for the potential benefits of light as a countermeasure against sleepiness during night shift in rapidly rotating shift workers. Findings suggest light interventions that capitalize on enhancing melanopsin-based responses may be an effective component of an occupational fatigue management program. Outcomes from this workplace intervention may inform future lighting standards to improve safety, productivity and wellbeing in operational settings. Further studies can examine the benefits of targeted lighting interventions in individuals most vulnerable to alertness impairment during night work.
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