Technological innovation in the automation of vehicles is progressing faster than standards or regulatory bodies can keep up with. The overall market share for automated vehicles is expected to increase to approximately 40% of vehicle travel by 2040. However, automated driving is fundamentally different to manual driving. The driver must be prepared to take over control of the vehicle whenever necessary. This shifts the driver’s role from being actively engaged in the driving task to that of a passive supervisor of the system. Studies on cognitive workload and performance show how humans who are overburdened tend to hurry their performance; commit more errors and become frustrated and fatigued. However, humans who are underworked can exhibit many of the same symptoms. This presentation discusses the implications of automated driving on human performance and considers possible countermeasures.
You may also be interested in:
Health and wellbeing data dashboard
Research analysts and health & wellbeing specialists showcase the new dashboard designed to help the rail industry and rail organisations to measure employee wellbeing – with data insights and discussion.
Tips for staying alert and energised during your shift
Deborah Edmonds and Rupert Lown will explore how we can all contribute to improving our alertness when we are working on shifts. Shift working can be a bind, but a bit of thinking and with some small adjustments we can make ourselves more alert – and you won’t need cans of energy drink or treble expressos! Our lives are hectic, we often have young families, caring for parents, grappling to sleep in very hot weather. All of these are things we have to live with, but there are tips and tricks to help us and we will explore these with you.
BACK-on-LINE (TM): Digital technology to help rail workers better manage their back pain in work
Back pain is a common issue among rail workers, with as much as 69% experiencing it every month. Currently, access to effective help is limited to hospitals with long waiting lists and requires therapist involvement. Dr Sheeran has developed a new work-based intervention called BACK-on-LINE (TM).