Aircrew
In-flight emergency Response
We collected real-time physiological data such as heart rate, respiration rate, and galvanic skin response during simulated in-flight emergencies. We also collected flight instrument visual scanning through wireless eye tracking. The findings have been published in two peer-reviewed journal articles.
Helicopter underwater egress training
While working for several organizations, we have completed a number of studies to explore human performance during the completion of helicopter underwater egress training. Primary areas of focus explored the influence of crash attenuating seats, forces required to jettison emergency exits, immersion suit snag hazards analyses, integration of emergency breathing systems during egress, and how types of emergency exits influence overall survival rates. The results of these studies have been published in 15 peer-reviewed journal articles.
Cognition in
long-term cold exposure
To replicate the conditions that might be experienced after a ship grounding or plane crash in a remote northern location, we explored physiological and cognitive functioning during 24-hours of exposure at an ambient temperature 7.5˚C. To date, this is the longest cold-exposure experiment ever completed under controlled conditions. Participants completed a battery of cognitive tests every 6 hours while all physiological functions (heart rate, respiration rate, and heat flow) were continuously monitored. Cortisol levels, neuromuscular functioning, and cold induced vasodilation measures were also collected at regular intervals. Findings from this study have been published in two peer-reviewed journal articles.
Offshore Emergency response
We explored the offshore emergency response process through a human system integration approach. Specifically, we considered the team's response in relationship to internal and external resources, available technology, and individuals involved in managing the situation. As part of this research, we developed an emergency response focus board that provided real-time visual aids to increase the level of situation awareness for the entire onshore and offshore team. The findings have been published in a peer-reviewed journal article.