Sleep environment is associated with sleep control in fly-in, fly-out mining shift workers.

Abstract

Control over sleep timing, duration, and quality is essential for obtaining healthy sleep. Fly-in, Fly-out (FIFO) mining shift workers face unique challenges in maintaining control over their sleep due to their roster. However, the impact of their sleep environment on perceived sleep control in this population remains underexplored. This study evaluates the sleep environment of FIFO mining shift workers and its association with sleep control. A cross-sectional study was conducted (2023-2024) on Australian FIFO mining shift workers residing in remote camp accommodations. Data were collected via an online survey using the Assessment of Sleep Environment (ASE) and the Brief Index of Sleep Control (BRISC). Linear regression and Random Forest analyses were used to explore associations and identify key environmental factors influencing sleep control. Respondents (n = 538, 29% female) reported a mean ASE score of 12.6 ± 7.4 and a BRISC score of 2.3 ± 0.9. Two-thirds (n = 366) rated their sleep environment as moderately or highly sleep-disruptive. Higher ASE scores were negatively associated with BRISC scores (p < 0.001). Key environmental factors included pillow/blanket comfort, mattress comfort, room temperature, noise, light, and safety, of which all were negatively correlated (p < 0.05) with sleep control. The findings highlight the importance of optimising sleep environments to improve FIFO mining shift workers' sleep control. Addressing bedding comfort, noise and light levels, temperature, and safety could improve sleep in this population. However, the cross-sectional design does not allow for the identification of causal relationships. Longitudinal and objective studies are warranted to confirm causality and guide interventions.