MAXIMIZING HUMAN POTENTIAL THROUGH WORK SCHEDULE ENGINEERING

The past decade has been a time of dynamic change in the physical security posture within the nuclear industry. We have enhanced and new technology, combined with an enlarged work force. Societal factors, and the changing demographics of human resources, have added a new dimension and complexity to operations and training. The new technology, and heightened concerns about terrorism, have increased training requirements. At the same time, operational needs have continued to rise. We are now faced with an era of fiscal restraint and must maximize our resources. Most of the physical upgrades have been completed, or at least are being addressed. The larger problem, and recurring expense, are the people. We must find a way to maximize our human potential. Engineering is the application of scientific principles to practical ends, as in the design, construction, and operation of efficient and economical structures, equipment, and systems. Recently, \"work schedule engineering\" has been evolving in security management. We are breaking from the traditional eight hour, three shift operation. A number of alternative schedules have emerged. These initiatives have been mixed with a variety of rotations, days off, and training relief squads. We need to continue experimenting with these options until we find the schedule that maximizes our human potential, but in doing so we must apply sound scientific principles to insure we do not damage our most valuable resource.