Daily Work Hours on a Submarine: Understanding Schedules and Management
Working on a submarine involves complex schedules and management systems designed to ensure the safety and efficiency of the vessel. From British boats to ballistic missile submarines, crew members follow specific routines that are crucial for their duties.
British Boats and Submarine Routines
British submarines follow a 6 on 6 off routine in the forward part of the sub. This schedule ensures that engineers back aft work under a different shift system, specifically a one in three rotation. Here is a detailed breakdown of their work shifts:
0700–1000 1000–1300 1300–1600 1600–1900 1900–2300 2300–0300 0300–0700This system helps in balancing the workload and ensuring consistent performance by rotating the crew through different shifts.
Submarine Crew Management
For the ballistic missile submarines, especially those serving on submarines designated SSBN (submersible sanitary boats for ballistic missiles), the work schedules are even more critical. As a Department Head (DH), the daily work hours can extend to about 16–18 hours a day. This includes management duties, administrative tasks, and standing watch.
Initial Shift Routines
When the submarine first leaves the dock, the initial shift routines often involve 6 hours on and 6 hours off. This system helps in gradually qualifying the sailors to stand full watches. After sufficient sailors are qualified, the schedules change to a more efficient 6 hours on and 12 hours off, which is essentially 8 hours in a 24-hour day. This structure is designed to keep the crew focused and alert without overextending them.
8 and 12 Hour Watches
It is crucial to note that 8 and 12 hour watches are never stood at sea on these submarines. Instead, a 6-hour watch is deemed sufficient for maintaining focus and productivity. Longer shifts can pose serious risks to crew safety and operational effectiveness.
Final Thoughts
The management of work schedules on submarines is a delicate balance between ensuring the crew's safety and maintaining operational readiness. Understanding these scheduling systems is essential for any personnel involved in submarine operations. Whether it's a British boat or a ballistic missile submarine, the key is to maintain a balance that supports both the crew and the vessel.