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Research Highlights the Importance of Sleep Hygiene for FIFO Mining Shift Workers
Fly-in, fly-out (FIFO) workers in the mining industry, who often face the challenge of irregular hours and isolated locations, could benefit from better sleep hygiene practices, according to recent research from Edith Cowan University (ECU). The study, published in the Journal of Sleep Research, sheds light on how small changes in sleep habits and environments could significantly improve the quality of rest for these workers.
Sleep hygiene refers to practices and environmental factors that contribute to better sleep, such as maintaining a regular sleep schedule, limiting screen time, and creating an optimal sleep environment. Despite its simplicity, these practices are not always easy to implement, especially for FIFO workers who operate in remote mining areas across Australia, often in difficult conditions.
Mr. Philipp Beranek, a Ph.D. candidate at ECU and lead author of the study, noted that shift workers face the most significant challenges in obtaining quality sleep. The research reveals that average sleep durations for FIFO workers vary, ranging from 6 hours to 6 hours and 19 minutes for those on day shifts, to as little as 5 hours and 32 minutes for night shift workers. Workers on their days off reported better sleep, averaging between 6 hours and 49 minutes to 7 hours and 18 minutes.
“The irregular hours and the demands of FIFO work make it tough to maintain a stable sleep pattern,” said Mr. Beranek. “For example, night shift workers are required to sleep during the day, a time when their bodies are typically alert and active, making it harder to fall asleep.”
Additionally, the study highlights that the remote locations of many mining sites create further obstacles for workers to achieve restful sleep. For instance, during hot summer months in regions like the Pilbara in Western Australia, elevated room temperatures can disrupt sleep for workers on night shifts who need to rest during daylight hours.
Despite these challenges, the research found that FIFO workers who adopted better sleep hygiene practices enjoyed improved sleep health. Factors like a consistent sleep schedule, a comfortable sleep environment, and effective mental health management were all associated with better overall well-being.
To improve sleep hygiene on-site, Mr. Beranek recommends several strategies:
- Setting air-conditioning between 16 and 20°C for a cooler, more comfortable sleep environment
- Using a more comfortable pillow to support better sleep posture
- Sticking to a regular bedtime and wake-up time, even during rotating shifts
- Practicing mindfulness or meditation to alleviate stress and promote relaxation before bedtime
“Having a regular sleep schedule, particularly for day shifts, night shifts, and time off at home, can significantly improve sleep quality for FIFO workers,” Mr. Beranek explained. “While rotating shifts make it challenging, aiming for consistency where possible is key.”
Disclaimer: This article is based on research published by Philipp Beranek et al. in the Journal of Sleep Research (2025), DOI: 10.1111/jsr.14457. The recommendations provided are based on the findings of this study and may not apply universally to all individuals. Workers are encouraged to consult healthcare professionals before making any significant changes to their sleep habits.
