Human Factors 2

Body Rhythm Our body operates on a circadian rhythm or 24 hour rhythm related to the earth's rotation, time especially lightness and darkness While disruption of this rhythm can be caused by late nights, long range flights, and irregular schedules can have varying effects on the body and the mind and can be very dangerous if operating an aircraft. Alcohol The effects of alcohol are multiplied with increases in altitude, so a drink at altitude can have two to three times the effect of a drink at sea level. Even a hangover has detrimental effects on performance causing headaches and impairing emotional stability and judgment. This is why the new regulations state that no person shall act as a crew member of an RPAS within 12 hours of consuming an alcoholic beverage as it can take up to three hours for the effects of 1 ounce of alcohol to wear off. Even small amounts of alcohol can: Dull judgment, comprehension, and attention Lessen the sense of responsibility Slow reflexes Reduce coordination Decrease eye efficiency Increase errors Decrease memory and reasoning Hypoxia Occurs when there is insufficient oxygen transport in the blood, most commonly occurs when ascending to a high altitude where the air contains less oxygen. It can be very dangerous because people are not aware that they have it, symptoms may include: Euphoria Blurred vision Confusion Inability to concentrate Impaired judgment Slowed reflexes There are four different types of hypoxia: Hypoxi Hypoxia - Normal effect of reduced oxygen at altitude Anaemic Hypoxia - Deficient oxygen transport in the blood Stagnant Hypoxia - The brain is deprived of an adequate blood supply Histotoxic Hypoxia - Chemical poisoning or high blood alcohol