Source: https://regulations.justia.com/regulations/fedreg/2017/06/06/2017-11642.html
Timestamp: 2020-08-06 20:05:21
Document Index: 305704755

Matched Legal Cases: ['§ 5206', 'art 381', 'art 381', 'art 381', 'art 381', 'art 381', 'art 381']

Hours of Service of Drivers; Pilot Program To Allow Commercial Drivers To Split Sleeper Berth Time, 26232-26237 [2017-11642] :: Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration :: Department Of Transportation :: Regulation Tracker :: Justia
Justia Regulation Tracker Department Of Transportation Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Hours of Service of Drivers; Pilot Program To Allow Commercial Drivers To Split Sleeper Berth Time, 26232-26237 [2017-11642]
Hours of Service of Drivers; Pilot Program To Allow Commercial Drivers To Split Sleeper Berth Time, 26232-26237 [2017-11642]
Download as PDF mstockstill on DSK30JT082PROD with NOTICES 26232 Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 107 / Tuesday, June 6, 2017 / Notices 72 FR 8417; 72 FR 21313; 72 FR 32703; 72 FR 36099; 72 FR 39879; 72 FR 40360; 72 FR 40362; 72 FR 52419; 72 FR 54971; 74 FR 26461; 74 FR 26464; 74 FR 34394; 74 FR 34630; 74 FR 37295; 74 FR 41971; 74 FR 43217; 74 FR 48343; 74 FR 49069; 74 FR 57551; 76 FR 18824; 76 FR 29024; 76 FR 34136; 76 FR 37168; 76 FR 37173; 76 FR 53708; 76 FR 54530; 76 FR 55463; 76 FR 55465; 76 FR 62143; 76 FR 66123; 76 FR 67246; 78 FR 27281; 78 FR 34143; 78 FR 41188; 78 FR 41975; 78 FR 47818; 78 FR 52602; 78 FR 56986; 78 FR 57679; 78 FR 63307; 78 FR 77782; 78 FR 78477; 79 FR 24298; 79 FR 53708; 80 FR 63869): Martin R. Anaya (NM) Kevan M. Burke (PA) Thomas F. Caithamer (IL) Juan Carranco (TX) Westcott Clarke (MA) James J. Doan (PA) Kenneth J. Fisk (MI) James E. Fix (SC) James E. Goodman (AL) James P. Greene (NY) Bradley O. Hart (UT) Randy L. Huelster (OK) Jesus J. Huerta (NV) Roger D. Kloss (IL) Michael A. Lawson (KY) Steven R. Lechtenberg (NE) Joseph L. Mast (OR) David Matos (NY) Jesse R. McClary, Sr. (MO) Roy L. Morgan (IL) Earl R. Neugerbauer (CO) Steven D. O’Donnell (NJ) Robert M. Pickett II (MI) Gerald J. Shamla (MN) Steven C. Sheeder (IA) Halman Smith (DE) Jerry W. Stanfill (AR) Brian C. Tate (OH) Scott C. Teich (MN) Bruce E. Thulin (NE) Virgil E. Walker (TX) The drivers were included in one of the following docket Nos: FMCSA– 2003–15268; FMCSA–2005–20560; FMCSA–2005–21711; FMCSA–2006– 26653; FMCSA–2007–27515; FMCSA– 2007–27897; FMCSA–2009–0121; FMCSA–2009–0154; FMCSA–2009– 0206; FMCSA–2011–0057; FMCSA– 2011–0124; FMCSA–2011–0189; FMCSA–2013–0028; FMCSA–2013– 0029; FMCSA–2013–0030; FMCSA– 2013–0165. Their exemptions are effective as of November 6, 2015, and will expire on November 6, 2017. As of November 25, 2015, and in accordance with 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 31315, Dennis E. White (PA), has satisfied the conditions for obtaining a renewed exemption from the vision requirements (78 FR 62935; 78 FR 76395; 80 FR 63869): VerDate Sep<11>2014 20:52 Jun 05, 2017 Jkt 241001 The driver was included in docket No. FMCSA–2013–0166. His exemption is effective as of November 25, 2015, and will expire on November 25, 2017. As of November 26, 2015, and in accordance with 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 31315, Albert M. Divella (NV), has satisfied the conditions for obtaining a renewed exemption from the vision requirements (78 FR 62935; 78 FR 76395; 80 FR 63869). The driver was included in docket No. FMCSA–2013–0166. His exemption is effective as of November 26, 2015, and will expire on November 26, 2017. As of November 28, 2015, and in accordance with 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 31315, the following 17 individuals have satisfied the conditions for obtaining a renewed exemption from the vision requirements (69 FR 33997; 69 FR 61292; 70 FR 48797; 70 FR 61493; 71 FR 55820; 72 FR 39879; 72 FR 52421; 72 FR 54971; 72 FR 58362; 72 FR 67344; 73 FR 65009; 74 FR 41971; 74 FR 49069; 74 FR 57553; 76 FR 4413; 76 FR 62143; 76 FR 70212; 80 FR 63869): Robert W. Bequeaith (IA) Lloyd K. Brown (WY) Kecia D. Clark-Welch (NC) Charles A. DeKnikker, Sr. (NV) Clarence N. Florey, Jr. (PA) Loren H. Geiken (SD) John N. Guilford (AL) John E. Halcomb (GA) Michael A. Hershberger (OH) Patrick J. Hogan, Jr. (DE) Raul Martinez (FL) Robert A. Miller (KY) Amilton T. Monteiro (MA) David G. Oakley (SC) John S. Olsen (PA) Thomas J. Prusik (NJ) Brent L. Seaux (LA) The drivers were included in one of the following docket Nos: FMCSA– 2004–17984; FMCSA–2005–21711; FMCSA–2007–27897; FMCSA–2007– 29019. Their exemptions are effective as of November 28, 2015, and will expire on November 28, 2017. As of November 30, 2015, and in accordance with 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 31315, the following 14 individuals have satisfied the conditions for obtaining a renewed exemption from the vision requirements (64 FR 27027; 64 FR 40404; 64 FR 51568; 64 FR 66962; 66 FR 63289; 67 FR 68719; 68 FR 2629; 68 FR 52811; 68 FR 61860; 68 FR 64944; 70 FR 48797; 70 FR 61165; 70 FR 61493; 70 FR 67776; 72 FR 64273; 74 FR 62632; 76 FR 70215; 78 FR 64280; 80 FR 63869): Thomas E. Adams (IN) Terry J. Aldridge (MS) Lennie D. Baker, Jr. (NC) Jerry D. Bridges (TX) PO 00000 Frm 00191 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 William J. Corder (NC) Gary R. Gutschow (WI) James J. Hewitt (WI) Rodney M. Mimbs (GA) Walter F. Moniowczak (MI) James R. Murphy (NY) Chris A. Ritenour (MI) Ronald L. Roy (IL) Thomas E. Walsh (CA) Kevin P. Weinhold (MA) The drivers were included in one of the following docket Nos: FMCSA– 1999–5578; FMCSA–1999–5748; FMCSA–2002–12844; FMCSA–2003– 15892; FMCSA–2005–21711. Their exemptions are effective as of November 30, 2015, and will expire on November 30, 2017. In accordance with 49 U.S.C. 31315, each exemption will be valid for two years from the effective date unless revoked earlier by FMCSA. The exemption will be revoked if the following occurs: (1) The person fails to comply with the terms and conditions of the exemption; (2) the exemption has resulted in a lower level of safety than was maintained prior to being granted; or (3) continuation of the exemption would not be consistent with the goals and objectives of 49 U.S.C. 31136 and 31315. Issued on: May 12, 2017. Larry W. Minor, Associate Administrator for Policy. [FR Doc. 2017–11648 Filed 6–5–17; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–EX–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration [Docket No. FMCSA–2016–0260] Hours of Service of Drivers; Pilot Program To Allow Commercial Drivers To Split Sleeper Berth Time Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), DOT. ACTION: Notice; request for comments. AGENCY: FMCSA proposes a pilot program to allow temporary regulatory relief from the Agency’s sleeper berth regulation, for a limited number of commercial drivers who have a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL), and who regularly use a sleeper berth to accumulate their required 10 hours of non-duty work status. During the pilot program, participating drivers would have the option to split their sleeper berth time within parameters specified by FMCSA. Driver metrics would be collected for the duration of the study, and participants’ safety performance SUMMARY: E:\FR\FM\06JNN1.SGM 06JNN1 mstockstill on DSK30JT082PROD with NOTICES Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 107 / Tuesday, June 6, 2017 / Notices and fatigue levels would be analyzed. This pilot program seeks to produce statistically reliable evidence on the question whether split sleeper berth time affects driver safety performance and fatigue levels. The Agency proposes criteria for participating drivers and carriers, outlines procedural steps and a data collection plan, and requests comments on these elements. DATES: Comments must be received on or before August 7, 2017. The implementation date of the Pilot Program will be announced in subsequent Federal Register notices. ADDRESSES: You may submit comments bearing the Federal Docket Management System (FDMS) Docket ID FMCSA– 2016–0260 using any of the following methods: • Federal eRulemaking Portal: http:// www.regulations.gov. Follow the online instructions for submitting comments. • Fax: 1–202–493–2251. • Mail: Docket Operations, U.S. Department of Transportation, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., West Building, Ground Floor, Room W12–140, Washington, DC 20590–0001. • Hand Delivery or Courier: 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., West Building, Ground Floor, Room W12–140, Washington, DC 20590 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. Instructions: All submission must include the Agency name and the docket number. For detailed instructions on submitting comments and additional information on the exemption process, see the Public Participation heading below. Note that all comments received will be posted without change to http:// www.regulations.gov, including any personal information provided. Please see the Privacy Act heading below. Docket: For access to the docket to read background documents or comments received, go to http:// www.regulations.gov, and follow the online instructions for accessing the dockets, or go to the street address listed above. Privacy Act: In accordance with 5 U.S.C. 553(c), DOT solicits comments from the public to better inform its rulemaking process. DOT posts these comments, without edit, including any personal information the commenter provides, to www.regulations.gov, as described in the system of records notice (DOT/ALL–14 FDMS), which can be reviewed at www.dot.gov/privacy. Public Participation: The Federal eRulemaking Portal is available 24 hours each day, 365 days each year. You VerDate Sep<11>2014 20:52 Jun 05, 2017 Jkt 241001 26233 can obtain electronic submission and retrieval help and guidelines under the ‘‘help’’ section of the Federal eRulemaking Portal Web site. If you want us to notify you that we received your comments, please include a selfaddressed, stamped envelope or postcard, or print the acknowledgement page that appears after submitting comments online. Comments received after the comment closing date will be included in the docket and will be considered to the extent practicable. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Nicole Michel, Research Division, Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590– 0001, by email at Nicole.michel@ dot.gov, or by telephone at 202–366– 4354. If you have questions on viewing or submitting material to the docket, contact Docket Services, telephone (202) 366–9826. Further information will be posted at the Web site for the proposed pilot program: www.sleeperberthstudy.com. larger than 81⁄2 by 11 inches, suitable for copying and electronic filing. If you submit comments by mail and would like to know that they reached the facility, please enclose a stamped, selfaddressed postcard or envelope. FMCSA will consider all comments and material received during the comment period. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: II. Legal Basis On June 9, 1998, the President signed the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century (TEA–21) (Pub. L. 105– 178, 112 Stat. 107). Section 4007 of TEA–21 amended 49 U.S.C. 31315 and 31136(e) to authorize the Secretary of Transportation (Secretary) to grant waivers and exemptions from some of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs). The duration of a waiver is limited to 3 months, and the Secretary may grant the waiver without requesting public comment. By contrast, an exemption may be granted for up to 5 years,1 and may be renewed. The Secretary must provide the public with an opportunity to comment on each exemption prior to granting or denying the request. Section 4007 also authorizes the Secretary to conduct pilot programs, which are research studies where one or more exemptions are granted to allow for the testing of innovative alternatives to certain FMCSRs. FMCSA must publish in the Federal Register a detailed description of each pilot program, including the exemptions being considered, and provide notice and an opportunity for public comment before the effective date of the program. The Agency is required to ensure that the safety measures in the pilot programs are designed to achieve a level of safety that is equivalent to, or greater than, the level of safety that would be I. Public Participation and Request for Comments FMCSA encourages you to participate by submitting comments and related materials. In this notice, FMCSA requests certain information, but comments need not be limited to those requests. Submitting Comments If you submit a comment, please include the docket number for this notice (FMCSA–2016–0260), indicate the specific section of this document to which the comment applies, and provide a reason for suggestions or recommendations. You may submit your comments and material online, by fax, mail, or hand delivery, but please use only one of these means. FMCSA recommends that you include your name and a mailing address, an email address, or a phone number in the body of your document so the Agency can contact you if it has questions regarding your submission. To submit your comment online, go to www.regulations.gov, put the docket number, ‘‘FMCSA–2016–0260’’ in the ‘‘Keyword’’ box, and click ‘‘Search.’’ When the new screen appears, click on the ‘‘Comment Now!’’ button and type your comment into the text box in the following screen. Choose whether you are submitting your comment as an individual or on behalf of a third party and then submit. If you submit your comments by mail or hand delivery, submit them in an unbound format, no PO 00000 Frm 00192 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 Viewing Comments and Documents To view comments, as well as documents mentioned in this notice as being available in the docket, go to www.regulations.gov and insert the docket number, ‘‘FMCSA–2016–0260’’ in the ‘‘Keyword’’ box and click ‘‘Search.’’ Next, click the ‘‘Open Docket Folder’’ button and choose the document listed to review. If you do not have access to the Internet, you may view the docket online by visiting the Docket Management Facility in Room W12–140 on the ground floor of the DOT West Building, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., e.t., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. 1 Changed from 2 years to 5 years by § 5206(a)(3) of the Fixing America’s Surface Transportation (FAST) Act, effective October 1, 2015. E:\FR\FM\06JNN1.SGM 06JNN1 26234 Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 107 / Tuesday, June 6, 2017 / Notices achieved through compliance with the safety regulations. Pilot programs are limited to 3 years from the starting date. At the conclusion of each pilot program, FMCSA must report to Congress its findings, conclusions, and recommendations, including suggested amendments to laws and regulations that would enhance motor carrier, commercial motor vehicle (CMV), and driver safety, and improve compliance with the FMCSRs. Section 4007 was implemented as an interim final rule (IFR) that created 49 CFR part 381 (63 FR 67600, Dec. 8, 1998). On August 20, 2004 (69 FR 51589), FMCSA adopted the IFR as a final rule (69 FR 51589). Part 381 established procedures to request waivers, apply for exemptions, and to propose pilot programs. It also required publishing notice of proposed pilot programs in the Federal Register to afford the public an opportunity for comment. III. Background Earlier Proposals In early 2013, FMCSA informally expressed an interest in conducting a pilot program to study variations in the types of ‘‘splits’’ of the required off-duty periods that were allowed when using a sleeper berth. In June 2013, the National Association of Small Trucking Companies advised that it supported such a study and its members would be willing to participate. In December 2013, the American Trucking Associations, Inc. and the Minnesota Trucking Association submitted a joint proposal for a split sleeper-berth pilot program. FMCSA has developed today’s proposal based in part on these prior expressions of support and interest. FMCSA also took into account new sleep studies and findings when developing the proposal to ensure valid results, without detrimental safety impacts throughout the program, were reasonably expected. Applicable Regulations As described in 49 CFR 395.1(g)(1), a driver who operates a property-carrying CMV equipped with a sleeper berth 2 and who uses the sleeper berth provision must take at least 8 consecutive hours in the sleeper berth, plus a separate period of 2 consecutive hours either in the sleeper berth, off duty, or any combination of the two, before returning to on-duty status. The Flexible Sleeper Berth Pilot Program offers participating drivers relief from the requirement for 8 consecutive hours in the sleeper berth. Previous Research During listening sessions for the Agency’s 2010 notice of proposed hours-of-service rulemaking, many drivers said they would like some regulatory flexibility (i.e., an exemption from consolidated sleeper berth time) to be able to sleep when they get tired or as a countermeasure to traffic congestion. Although the Agency’s 2011 final rule did not include a split sleeper berth option, FMCSA determined that the issue should be explored in greater depth. Subsequently, FMCSA reviewed the literature and completed its own laboratory study on the safety impacts of split sleep. The majority of sleep studies to date demonstrate that well-timed split sleep has either a positive or no effect on subsequent neurobehavioral performance. This supports the theory that the restorative effects of sleep on performance may be maintained when splitting total sleep time into multiple segments. Further, split sleep does not negatively affect daytime neurobehavioral performance when compared to a consolidated sleep period of the same total duration. Table 1 provides a list of selected studies that support the safety benefits of split sleep for transportation operators. TABLE 1—SELECTED STUDIES SUPPORTING THE BENEFITS OF SPLIT SLEEP FOR TRANSPORTATION OPERATORS Description Thomas G. Raslear , Judith Gertler, and Amanda DiFiore (2013): ‘‘Work schedules, sleep, fatigue, and accidents in the U.S. railroad industry,’’ Fatigue: Biomedicine, Health & Behavior, 1:1–2, 99–115. Gianluca Ficca, John Axelsson, Daniel J. Mollicone, Vincenzo Muto, Michael V. Vitiello (2010): ‘‘Naps, cognition and performance,’’ Sleep Medicine Reviews 14, 249–258. mstockstill on DSK30JT082PROD with NOTICES Reference Study analyzes results from five surveys administered between 2006 and 2011 and provides a comprehensive description of fatigue in U.S. railroad workers employed in safety-sensitive positions. Literature review explores daytime split-sleep schedules and their effects on recovery (compared with consolidated sleep schedules) and the benefits of naps in terms of wakefulness performance and cognition. Laboratory study of 93 adults investigates physiological sleep obtained in a range of restricted sleep schedules. Daniel J. Mollicone, Hans P.A. Van Dongen, David F. Dinges (2007): ‘‘Optimizing sleep/wake schedules in space: Sleep during chronic nocturnal sleep restriction with and without diurnal naps,’’ Acta Astronautica 60, 354–361. Daniel J. Mollicone, Hans P.A. Van Dongen, Ph.D., Naomi L. Rogers, Ph.D., and David F. Dinges, Ph.D. (2008): ‘‘Response Surface Mapping of Neurobehavioral Performance: Testing the Feasibility of Split Sleep Schedules for Space Operations,’’ Acta Astronautica, 63(7– 10): 833–840. J. Horne (2011): ‘‘Obesity and short sleep: unlikely bedfellows?,’’ Obesity Reviews, 12: e84–e94. L. Di Milia, G. Kecklund (2013): ‘‘The distribution of sleepiness, sleep and work hours during a long distance morning trip: A comparison between night- and non-night workers,’’ Accident Analysis and Prevention, 53:17–22. Gregory Belenky, M.D., Steven R. Hursh, Ph.D., James Fitzpatrick, Hans P. A. Van Dongen, Ph.D. (2008): ‘‘Split Sleeper Berth Use and Driver Performance: A Review of the Literature and Application of a Mathematical Model Predicting Performance from Sleep/Wake History and Circadian Phase,’’ American Trucking Associations. Laboratory study of 90 adults examined feasibility of split-sleep schedules for astronauts with mission-critical space operations involving restricted nighttime sleep. Analysis critically examines the link between habitual short sleep and obesity, using a previously collected data set. Study estimates the prevalence of chronic sleepiness and sleep restriction in a sample of 649 drivers. Study reviews the literature to examine the recuperative value of split versus consolidated sleep for performance and applies a mathematical model to evaluate the effects on performance of 288 sleeper berth provision compliant and non-compliant schedules. 2 A ‘‘sleeper berth’’ is a sleeping compartment installed on a CMV that complies with the specifications in 49 CFR 393.76. VerDate Sep<11>2014 20:52 Jun 05, 2017 Jkt 241001 PO 00000 Frm 00193 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 E:\FR\FM\06JNN1.SGM 06JNN1 Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 107 / Tuesday, June 6, 2017 / Notices 26235 TABLE 1—SELECTED STUDIES SUPPORTING THE BENEFITS OF SPLIT SLEEP FOR TRANSPORTATION OPERATORS— Continued Reference Description Gregory Belenky, M.D., Melinda L. Jackson, Ph.D., Lindsey Tompkins, Brieann Satterfield, Amy Bender (2012): ‘‘Investigation of the Effects of Split Sleep Schedules on Commercial Vehicle Driver Safety and Health,’’ FMCSA. In-residence laboratory study of 53 healthy participants provides between-group comparisons of nighttime, split, or daytime sleep across a 5-day simulated workweek. FMCSA sponsored an in-residence laboratory study entitled ‘‘Investigation of the Effects of Split Sleep Schedules on Commercial Vehicle Driver Safety and Health.’’ The study was conducted from January 2010 through May 2011. A copy of the report is filed in the docket identified at the beginning of this notice. Three sleep conditions were examined: Consolidated nighttime sleep, split sleep, and consolidated daytime sleep. With respect to objectively measured sleep, during the 5-day simulated workweek, participants in the nighttime condition slept the most (8.4 hours ± 13.4 minutes), participants in the daytime condition slept the least (6.4 hours ± 15.3 minutes), and participants in the splitsleep condition fell somewhere in between (7.16 hours ± 14.2 minutes). The study found that consolidated daytime sleep resulted in less total sleep time, increased sleepiness, and an increase in blood glucose and testosterone at the end of the workweek. However, performance was not significantly affected by sleep opportunity placement. The findings suggest that, with respect to total sleep time, consolidated sleep is better than split sleep if the consolidated sleep opportunity is placed at night, but that split sleep is better than consolidated sleep if the consolidated sleep opportunity is placed during the day. This laboratory study and the studies referenced in Table 1 (as well as others) provide the scientific basis for the present study. Previous sleep studies that have shown detrimental effects caused by split sleep are described in Table 2. TABLE 2—SELECTED STUDIES SHOWING NEGATIVE IMPACTS OF SPLIT SLEEP FOR TRANSPORTATION OPERATORS Description NTSB (1995). Factors that affect Fatigue in Heavy Truck Accidents. Volume I: Analysis. Safety Study NTSB Number: SS–95/01, NTIS Number: PB95–917001, Washington, DC. Hertz, R.P., ‘‘Tractor-Trailer Driver Fatality: The Role of Nonconsecutive Rest in a Sleeper Berth,’’ Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, October 1987. Revised February 1988. http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/ rules-regulations/administration/rulemakings/final/05-16498-HOSFinal-Rule-8-25-05.htm. Dingus, et al, ‘‘Impact of Sleeper Berth Usage on Driver Fatigue,’’ NHTSA, 2002. FMCSA–2004–19608–1994. Pilcher, JJ and Huffcutt, Al. ‘‘Effects of sleep deprivation on performance: a meta-analysis.’’ Pubmed.gov, May1996. https:// www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/8776790. mstockstill on DSK30JT082PROD with NOTICES Reference Study determined that split-shift sleeper berth use increased the risk of fatality and that duration of last sleep as well as continuous sleep were the most important predictors of fatigue-related accidents. Study found that CMV driver fatality was significantly associated with split sleeper berth use and that the quality and quantity of sleep obtained in the sleeper berth was less than that obtained when sleeping at home. Most of these studies shown in Table 2 have findings that are potentially outdated due to advances in methods of conducting studies as well as advances in the understanding of fatigue, fatigue management, and how different sleep patterns affect performance and fatigue. More recent studies provide overwhelming documentation that the circadian rhythm affects fatigue far more than splitting sleep does, and that splitting sleep may be more beneficial than sleeping in a single day time period only. A literature review published by Belenky, et al in 2008 provides a strong case for conducting this pilot program, despite the earlier findings shown in Table 2. This literature review furthermore addresses 3 Note that study is only relevant to driver’s who participate in team driving scenarios, since this is the only situation where the vehicle can be moving while a driver is in the sleeper berth. VerDate Sep<11>2014 20:52 Jun 05, 2017 Jkt 241001 Concluded that sleeping in a moving vehicle impaired the quality of rest.3 Found that a single, longer sleeping period was more refreshing that splitting sleep into multiple shorter periods and that fatigue and micro sleeps were more likely when an individual experienced disturbed sleep. the majority of publications mentioned in Table 2 with respect to why the subject of split sleep should be revisited. IV. Pilot Program Requirements Specific requirements for pilot programs are found in Subparts D and E of 49 CFR part 381. A pilot program is a study in which participants are given exemptions from one or more provisions of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs) for up to 3 years to gather data to evaluate alternatives or innovative approaches to regulations, while ensuring that an equivalent level of safety is maintained. A pilot program must include a program plan that incorporates the following six elements: (1) A scheduled duration of three years or less; PO 00000 Frm 00194 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 (2) A specific data collection and safety analysis plan that identifies a method of comparing the safety performance for motor carriers, CMVs, and drivers operating under the terms and conditions of the pilot program, with the safety performance of motor carriers, CMVs, and drivers that comply with the regulation; (3) A reasonable number of participants necessary to yield statistically valid findings; (4) A monitoring plan to ensure that participants comply with the terms and conditions of participation in the pilot program; (5) Adequate safeguards to protect the health and safety of study participants and the general public; and (6) A plan to inform the States and the public about the pilot program and to identify approved participants to E:\FR\FM\06JNN1.SGM 06JNN1 26236 Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 107 / Tuesday, June 6, 2017 / Notices enforcement personnel and the general public. (49 CFR 381.500) At the conclusion of each pilot program, the FMCSA will report to Congress the findings and conclusions of the program and any recommendations it considers appropriate, including suggested amendments to laws and regulations that would enhance motor carrier, CMV, and driver safety and improve compliance with the FMCSRs. (49 CFR 381.520) mstockstill on DSK30JT082PROD with NOTICES V. Structure of the Pilot Program The purpose of this pilot program is to examine whether regulatory flexibility related to the sleeper berth provision could be used to improve driver rest and alertness. Currently, any interstate driver who (1) operates a property-carrying CMV equipped with a sleeper berth, and (2) uses the sleeper berth provision, must take at least 8 consecutive hours in the sleeper berth, plus a separate 2 consecutive hours either in the sleeper berth, off duty, or any combination of the two, before returning to on-duty status. The pilot program would give participating drivers a temporary exemption from this requirement for consolidated sleeper berth time, within parameters specified by the Agency. For study purposes, drivers would be allowed to split their sleep into no more than two sleeper berth segments. Current regulations allow drivers to use one 10 hour period, or splits of 9 and 1 hours or 8 and 2 hours. Drivers operating under the exemption for this study would be allowed to use any combination of split sleeper periods, totaling 10 hours, with neither period being less than 3 hours,4 allowing for the driver to use splits of 3 and 7 hours, 4 and 6 hours, or two 5 hour periods. Following study enrollment, drivers would be able to use split or consolidated sleep schedules as they choose (within study parameters), but they must still meet the daily minimum rest requirements. This pilot program would recruit CDL drivers who operate a CMV equipped with a sleeper berth and who regularly use the sleeper berth provision. The study group would include drivers from small, medium, and large carriers, as well as team drivers and owneroperators. To ensure statistical significance, approximately 200 study group participants are desired. Each participating driver would be recommended, but not required, to 4 Note that if a driver has one period which is less than 3 hours, they are in compliance with current rules and therefore not driving under the exemption. VerDate Sep<11>2014 20:52 Jun 05, 2017 Jkt 241001 complete the Driver Education Module (Module 3) and Driver Sleep Disorders and Management Module (module 8) of the NAFMP before data collection starts to ensure participants are aware of the risks of driving fatigued and have tools available to manage their fatigue throughout the study. Drivers will be asked whether or not they chose to complete these modules, or whether they had completed them prior to study application. Participating carriers that meet the eligibility criteria, as described later in this notice, may assist in recruiting study group drivers. Drivers will be enrolled in the study contingent upon approval from their carrier, as applicable (owner-operators will not need to meet this requirement). The pilot program would also collect driver identification details and data on sleep, safety-critical events (SCEs), subjective sleepiness ratings, and behavioral alertness for up to a 90-day period per driver. VI. Management of the Pilot Program FMCSA has designated a project manager for the pilot program. Participating carriers would be publicly announced. FMCSA would develop the applications, agreements, and forms to be used by interested carriers and potential study group members. Eligibility requirements and procedural matters are discussed in Sections VII and VIII of this notice. VII. Eligibility Criteria To Participate A. Motor Carriers Motor carriers who have drivers participating in the pilot program must meet the following requirements: • Grant permission for drivers to participate in the Flexible Sleeper Berth Pilot Program. • Agree to comply with all pilot program procedures, which will be established and made available in written form to carrier-applicants prior to initiation of the pilot program. • Grant permission for researchers to install an onboard monitoring system (OBMS) and/or electronic logging device (ELD) in each participating driver’s vehicle throughout the study duration. • Grant permission for drivers participating in the study to operate under the flexible sleeper berth exemption, as well as an exemption allowing participating drivers to maintain two hours of service logs (the study-provided ELD system will be the only way to properly track flexible sleeper berth hours of service). PO 00000 Frm 00195 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 B. Study Group Drivers In order to participate in the Flexible Sleeper Berth Pilot Program, drivers must meet the following eligibility requirements: • Be at least 21 years of age when the pilot begins. • Operate a CMV equipped with a sleeper berth and regularly use the sleeper berth. • Have a valid CDL. • Be medically fit for duty (have a medical certificate that is valid throughout the period of participation). • Have carrier approval for participation in the study (unless driver is an owner-operator). • May not be a slip-seat driver who shares use of the same truck or trucktractor with another driver(s) during separate periods such as shifts, days, or weeks. • May not drive outside of the United States. • Agree to the release of specific information 5 to FMCSA for purposes of the pilot. • Agree to study procedures,6 including the use of ELDs and camerabased OBMSs. VIII. Process To Apply To Participate A. Motor Carriers • Visit the pilot program Web site (www.sleeperberthstudy.com) and complete an electronic application with screening questionnaire, which will request the following details, at a minimum: Name, carrier information, company name, job title, carrier size, and whether the carrier’s drivers have previously completed the NAFMP (specifically modules 3 and 8). The carrier must grant permission for OBMS and/or ELD equipment to be temporarily installed in the vehicles of participating drivers, and for drivers to use the studyprovided ELD system for recording HOS during the period of data collection (up to 90 days). • The carrier’s representative must acknowledge that driver data to include OBMS video, driving data, sleep data, performance data, and caffeine data must remain confidential and will not be shared with the company. The exception to this is ELD data for properly recording a driver’s HOS. 5 Information will be specified by the time drivers apply to participate. Collection of specified information must be approved prior to initiation of pilot program. 6 Procedures will be specified by the time drivers apply to participate. Specific procedures must be established and approved prior to initiation of the pilot program. E:\FR\FM\06JNN1.SGM 06JNN1 Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 107 / Tuesday, June 6, 2017 / Notices mstockstill on DSK30JT082PROD with NOTICES B. Study Group Drivers • Visit the pilot program Web site (www.sleeperberthstudy.com) and complete an electronic application and screening questionnaire, which will request the following details, at a minimum: Name, contact information, MEC expiration date, CDL status, typical operation type (solo, team, or slip seat), location of their home terminal, whether they regularly drive a truck equipped with a sleeper berth, whether they regularly use their sleeper berth, whether they have previously completed modules 3 and 8 of the NAFMP, and whether they currently use paper or electronic HOS logs. • Participate in a phone call with a member of the research team to confirm interest and eligibility. • Obtain carrier permission to participate (unless the individual is an independent owner operator). • Provide written, informed consent after a briefing session on data collection techniques and methods. VIII. Data Collection Plan Details of the data collection plan for this pilot program are subject to change based on comments to the docket and further review by analysts. Factors to be collected from each participating carrier and driver before the pilot program begins are discussed in Section VII of this notice. Participating drivers will drive an instrumented vehicle (instrumented by the research team with a study-provided OBMS and custom ELD) for up to 90 days. During a prestudy briefing, participants will receive a study-provided smartphone (installed with a variety of data collection applications), as well as a wrist actigraphy device.7 Participants whose vehicles are not already equipped with a compatible ELD will be provided with an approved ELD application (installed on the study-provided smartphone). At a minimum, FMCSA will gather the following data during the study: • ELD data, to evaluate duty hours and timing, driving hours and timing, rest breaks, off-duty time, and restart breaks. • OBMS data, to evaluate driving behaviors, SCEs (crashes, near-crashes, and other safety-related events), reaction time, fatigue, lane deviations, and traffic density (as discerned from viewpoints of the multiple cameras), road curvature, and speed variability. • Roadside violation data (from carriers and drivers, as well as the 7 Participants will wear wrist actigraphy devices (similar to commercially available smart fitness watches) throughout their time in the study. Actigraphy is a minimally obtrusive, validated approach to assessing sleep/wake patterns. VerDate Sep<11>2014 20:52 Jun 05, 2017 Jkt 241001 Commercial Driver’s License Information System (CDLIS)), including vehicle, duty status, hazardous materials, and cargo-related violations (contingent upon inspections). • Wrist actigraphy data, to evaluate total sleep time, time of day sleep was taken, sleep latency, and intermittent wakefulness. • Psychomotor Vigilance Test (PVT) 8 data, to evaluate drivers’ behavioral alertness based on reaction times. • Subjective sleepiness ratings, using the Karolinska Sleepiness Scale,9 to measure drivers’ perceptions of their fatigue levels. • Sleep logs, in which drivers will document when they are going to sleep, when they wake up, and whether they are using the sleeper berth. For splitsleep days, drivers will record how and why they chose to split their sleep. Other information that may be needed will also be collected through the participating carrier. Every effort will be made to reduce the burden on the carrier in collecting and reporting this data. IX. Paperwork Reduction Act The pilot program will require participating motor carriers to collect, maintain, and report to FMCSA certain information about their drivers who are participating in the pilot program. This will include identifying information and safety performance data for use in analyzing the drivers’ safety history. The Agency will develop forms to promote uniformity in the data collected by the pilot carriers. The Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (the PRA) (44 U.S.C. 3501–3520) prohibits agencies from conducting information collection (IC) activities until they analyze the need for the collection of information and how the collected data will be managed. Agencies must also analyze whether technology could be used to reduce the burden imposed on those providing the data. The Agency must estimate the time burden required to respond to the IC requirements, such as the time required to complete a particular form. The Agency submits its IC analysis and burden estimate to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) as a formal information collection request (ICR); the Agency cannot conduct the 8 For this study, drivers will be required to complete daily iterations of a brief PVT, a 3-minute behavioral alertness test which measures drivers’ alertness levels by timing their reactions to visual stimuli. 9 The KSS is a 9-point Likert-type scale ranging from ‘‘extremely alert’’ to ‘‘extremely sleepy’’ and has been widely used in the literature as a subjective assessment of alertness. PO 00000 Frm 00196 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 26237 information collection until OMB approves the ICR. Because certain aspects of this pilot program—such as the content of forms and reports—have not been finalized, the Agency is not posting possible IC burden data at this time. When the pilot program is implemented, this information will be posted and additional comments will be taken. X. Removal From the Program FMCSA reserves the right to remove any motor carrier or driver from the pilot program for reasons related, but not limited to, failure to meet all program requirements. XI. Request for Public Comments Instructions for filing comments to the public docket are included earlier in this notice. FMCSA seeks information in the following areas, but responses need not be limited to these questions: 1. Are any additional safeguards needed to ensure that the pilot program provides a level of safety equivalent to that without the consolidated sleeper berth time exemption? 2. Should completion of modules 3 and 8 of the NAFMP be required for study participation (instead of recommended)? 3. Are the data collection efforts proposed for carriers and drivers so burdensome as to discourage participation? 4. How should data collection efforts differ for team drivers? Issued on: May 31, 2017. Daphne Y. Jefferson, Deputy Administrator. [FR Doc. 2017–11642 Filed 6–5–17; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–EX–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Maritime Administration [Docket No. DOT–MARAD–2017–0100] Request for Comments on the Renewal of a Previously Approved Information Collection: War Risk Insurance, Applications and Related Information Maritime Administration, Department of Transportation. ACTION: Notice and request for comments. AGENCY: In compliance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, this notice announces that the Information Collection Request (ICR) abstracted below is being forwarded to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for review and comments. The Secretary of the U.S. Department of Transportation SUMMARY: E:\FR\FM\06JNN1.SGM 06JNN1
[Pages 26232-26237]
[FR Doc No: 2017-11642]
[Docket No. FMCSA-2016-0260]
Hours of Service of Drivers; Pilot Program To Allow Commercial
Drivers To Split Sleeper Berth Time
SUMMARY: FMCSA proposes a pilot program to allow temporary regulatory
relief from the Agency's sleeper berth regulation, for a limited number
of commercial drivers who have a valid commercial driver's license
(CDL), and who regularly use a sleeper berth to accumulate their
required 10 hours of non-duty work status. During the pilot program,
participating drivers would have the option to split their sleeper
berth time within parameters specified by FMCSA. Driver metrics would
be collected for the duration of the study, and participants' safety
and fatigue levels would be analyzed. This pilot program seeks to
produce statistically reliable evidence on the question whether split
The Agency proposes criteria for participating drivers and
carriers, outlines procedural steps and a data collection plan, and
requests comments on these elements.
DATES: Comments must be received on or before August 7, 2017. The
implementation date of the Pilot Program will be announced in
subsequent Federal Register notices.
Management System (FDMS) Docket ID FMCSA-2016-0260 using any of the
Instructions: All submission must include the Agency name and the
by telephone at 202-366-4354. If you have questions on viewing or
(202) 366-9826. Further information will be posted at the Web site for
the proposed pilot program: www.sleeperberthstudy.com.
related materials. In this notice, FMCSA requests certain information,
but comments need not be limited to those requests.
notice (FMCSA-2016-0260), indicate the specific section of this
material online, by fax, mail, or hand delivery, but please use only
To submit your comment online, go to www.regulations.gov, put the
docket number, ``FMCSA-2016-0260'' in the ``Keyword'' box, and click
button and type your comment into the text box in the following screen.
behalf of a third party and then submit. If you submit your comments by
envelope. FMCSA will consider all comments and material received during
being available in the docket, go to www.regulations.gov and insert the
docket number, ``FMCSA-2016-0260'' in the ``Keyword'' box and click
On June 9, 1998, the President signed the Transportation Equity Act
for the 21st Century (TEA-21) (Pub. L. 105-178, 112 Stat. 107). Section
4007 of TEA-21 amended 49 U.S.C. 31315 and 31136(e) to authorize the
Secretary of Transportation (Secretary) to grant waivers and exemptions
from some of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs). The
duration of a waiver is limited to 3 months, and the Secretary may
grant the waiver without requesting public comment. By contrast, an
exemption may be granted for up to 5 years,\1\ and may be renewed. The
Secretary must provide the public with an opportunity to comment on
each exemption prior to granting or denying the request.
\1\ Changed from 2 years to 5 years by Sec.  5206(a)(3) of the
Fixing America's Surface Transportation (FAST) Act, effective
Section 4007 also authorizes the Secretary to conduct pilot
programs, which are research studies where one or more exemptions are
granted to allow for the testing of innovative alternatives to certain
FMCSRs. FMCSA must publish in the Federal Register a detailed
description of each pilot program, including the exemptions being
considered, and provide notice and an opportunity for public comment
before the effective date of the program. The Agency is required to
ensure that the safety measures in the pilot programs are designed to
achieve a level of safety that is equivalent to, or greater than, the
level of safety that would be
achieved through compliance with the safety regulations. Pilot programs
are limited to 3 years from the starting date.
At the conclusion of each pilot program, FMCSA must report to
Congress its findings, conclusions, and recommendations, including
suggested amendments to laws and regulations that would enhance motor
carrier, commercial motor vehicle (CMV), and driver safety, and improve
Section 4007 was implemented as an interim final rule (IFR) that
created 49 CFR part 381 (63 FR 67600, Dec. 8, 1998). On August 20, 2004
(69 FR 51589), FMCSA adopted the IFR as a final rule (69 FR 51589).
Part 381 established procedures to request waivers, apply for
exemptions, and to propose pilot programs. It also required publishing
notice of proposed pilot programs in the Federal Register to afford the
public an opportunity for comment.
In early 2013, FMCSA informally expressed an interest in conducting
a pilot program to study variations in the types of ``splits'' of the
required off-duty periods that were allowed when using a sleeper berth.
In June 2013, the National Association of Small Trucking Companies
advised that it supported such a study and its members would be willing
to participate. In December 2013, the American Trucking Associations,
Inc. and the Minnesota Trucking Association submitted a joint proposal
for a split sleeper-berth pilot program. FMCSA has developed today's
proposal based in part on these prior expressions of support and
interest. FMCSA also took into account new sleep studies and findings
when developing the proposal to ensure valid results, without
detrimental safety impacts throughout the program, were reasonably
property-carrying CMV equipped with a sleeper berth \2\ and who uses
the sleeper berth, plus a separate period of 2 consecutive hours either
in the sleeper berth, off duty, or any combination of the two, before
\2\ A ``sleeper berth'' is a sleeping compartment installed on a
The Flexible Sleeper Berth Pilot Program offers participating
drivers relief from the requirement for 8 consecutive hours in the
sleeper berth.
During listening sessions for the Agency's 2010 notice of proposed
hours-of-service rulemaking, many drivers said they would like some
regulatory flexibility (i.e., an exemption from consolidated sleeper
berth time) to be able to sleep when they get tired or as a
countermeasure to traffic congestion. Although the Agency's 2011 final
rule did not include a split sleeper berth option, FMCSA determined
that the issue should be explored in greater depth. Subsequently, FMCSA
reviewed the literature and completed its own laboratory study on the
safety impacts of split sleep.
The majority of sleep studies to date demonstrate that well-timed
split sleep has either a positive or no effect on subsequent
neurobehavioral performance. This supports the theory that the
restorative effects of sleep on performance may be maintained when
splitting total sleep time into multiple segments. Further, split sleep
does not negatively affect daytime neurobehavioral performance when
compared to a consolidated sleep period of the same total duration.
Table 1 provides a list of selected studies that support the safety
benefits of split sleep for transportation operators.
Table 1--Selected Studies Supporting the Benefits of Split Sleep for
Reference                           Description
Thomas G. Raslear , Judith Gertler, and  Study analyzes results from
Amanda DiFiore (2013): ``Work            five surveys administered
schedules, sleep, fatigue, and           between 2006 and 2011 and
accidents in the U.S. railroad           provides a comprehensive
industry,'' Fatigue: Biomedicine,        description of fatigue in U.S.
Health & Behavior, 1:1-2, 99-115.        railroad workers employed in
safety-sensitive positions.
Gianluca Ficca, John Axelsson, Daniel    Literature review explores
J. Mollicone, Vincenzo Muto, Michael     daytime split-sleep schedules
V. Vitiello (2010): ``Naps, cognition    and their effects on recovery
and performance,'' Sleep Medicine        (compared with consolidated
Reviews 14, 249-258.                     sleep schedules) and the
benefits of naps in terms of
wakefulness performance and
Daniel J. Mollicone, Hans P.A. Van       Laboratory study of 93 adults
Dongen, David F. Dinges (2007):          investigates physiological
``Optimizing sleep/wake schedules in     sleep obtained in a range of
space: Sleep during chronic nocturnal    restricted sleep schedules.
sleep restriction with and without
diurnal naps,'' Acta Astronautica 60,
Daniel J. Mollicone, Hans P.A. Van       Laboratory study of 90 adults
Dongen, Ph.D., Naomi L. Rogers, Ph.D.,   examined feasibility of split-
and David F. Dinges, Ph.D. (2008):       sleep schedules for astronauts
``Response Surface Mapping of            with mission-critical space
Neurobehavioral Performance: Testing     operations involving
the Feasibility of Split Sleep           restricted nighttime sleep.
Schedules for Space Operations,'' Acta
Astronautica, 63(7-10): 833-840.
J. Horne (2011): ``Obesity and short     Analysis critically examines
sleep: unlikely bedfellows?,'' Obesity   the link between habitual
Reviews, 12: e84-e94.                    short sleep and obesity, using
a previously collected data
L. Di Milia, G. Kecklund (2013): ``The   Study estimates the prevalence
distribution of sleepiness, sleep and    of chronic sleepiness and
work hours during a long distance        sleep restriction in a sample
morning trip: A comparison between       of 649 drivers.
night- and non-night workers,''
53:17-22.
Gregory Belenky, M.D., Steven R. Hursh,  Study reviews the literature to
Ph.D., James Fitzpatrick, Hans P. A.     examine the recuperative value
Van Dongen, Ph.D. (2008): ``Split        of split versus consolidated
Sleeper Berth Use and Driver             sleep for performance and
Performance: A Review of the             applies a mathematical model
Literature and Application of a          to evaluate the effects on
Mathematical Model Predicting            performance of 288 sleeper
Performance from Sleep/Wake History      berth provision compliant and
and Circadian Phase,'' American          non-compliant schedules.
Trucking Associations.
Gregory Belenky, M.D., Melinda L.        In-residence laboratory study
Jackson, Ph.D., Lindsey Tompkins,        of 53 healthy participants
Brieann Satterfield, Amy Bender          provides between-group
(2012): ``Investigation of the Effects   comparisons of nighttime,
of Split Sleep Schedules on Commercial   split, or daytime sleep across
Vehicle Driver Safety and Health,''      a 5-day simulated workweek.
FMCSA sponsored an in-residence laboratory study entitled
``Investigation of the Effects of Split Sleep Schedules on Commercial
Vehicle Driver Safety and Health.'' The study was conducted from
January 2010 through May 2011. A copy of the report is filed in the
docket identified at the beginning of this notice. Three sleep
conditions were examined: Consolidated nighttime sleep, split sleep,
and consolidated daytime sleep. With respect to objectively measured
sleep, during the 5-day simulated workweek, participants in the
nighttime condition slept the most (8.4 hours  13.4
minutes), participants in the daytime condition slept the least (6.4
hours  15.3 minutes), and participants in the split-sleep
condition fell somewhere in between (7.16 hours  14.2
minutes). The study found that consolidated daytime sleep resulted in
less total sleep time, increased sleepiness, and an increase in blood
glucose and testosterone at the end of the workweek. However,
performance was not significantly affected by sleep opportunity
placement. The findings suggest that, with respect to total sleep time,
consolidated sleep is better than split sleep if the consolidated sleep
opportunity is placed at night, but that split sleep is better than
consolidated sleep if the consolidated sleep opportunity is placed
during the day. This laboratory study and the studies referenced in
Table 1 (as well as others) provide the scientific basis for the
Previous sleep studies that have shown detrimental effects caused
by split sleep are described in Table 2.
Table 2--Selected Studies Showing Negative Impacts of Split Sleep for
NTSB (1995). Factors that affect         Study determined that split-
Fatigue in Heavy Truck Accidents.        shift sleeper berth use
Volume I: Analysis. Safety Study NTSB    increased the risk of fatality
Number: SS-95/01, NTIS Number: PB95-     and that duration of last
917001, Washington, DC.                  sleep as well as continuous
sleep were the most important
predictors of fatigue-related
Hertz, R.P., ``Tractor-Trailer Driver    Study found that CMV driver
Fatality: The Role of Nonconsecutive     fatality was significantly
Rest in a Sleeper Berth,'' Insurance     associated with split sleeper
Institute for Highway Safety, October    berth use and that the quality
1987. Revised February 1988. http://     and quantity of sleep obtained
www.fmcsa.dot.gov/rules-regulations/     in the sleeper berth was less
administration/rulemakings/final/05-     than that obtained when
16498-HOS-Final-Rule-8-25-05.htm.        sleeping at home.
Dingus, et al, ``Impact of Sleeper       Concluded that sleeping in a
Berth Usage on Driver Fatigue,''         moving vehicle impaired the
NHTSA, 2002. FMCSA-2004-19608-1994.      quality of rest.\3\
Pilcher, JJ and Huffcutt, Al. ``Effects  Found that a single, longer
of sleep deprivation on performance: a   sleeping period was more
meta-analysis.'' Pubmed.gov, May1996.    refreshing that splitting
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/     sleep into multiple shorter
8776790.                                 periods and that fatigue and
micro sleeps were more likely
when an individual experienced
Most of these studies shown in Table 2 have findings that are
potentially outdated due to advances in methods of conducting studies
as well as advances in the understanding of fatigue, fatigue
management, and how different sleep patterns affect performance and
fatigue. More recent studies provide overwhelming documentation that
the circadian rhythm affects fatigue far more than splitting sleep
does, and that splitting sleep may be more beneficial than sleeping in
a single day time period only. A literature review published by
Belenky, et al in 2008 provides a strong case for conducting this pilot
program, despite the earlier findings shown in Table 2. This literature
review furthermore addresses the majority of publications mentioned in
Table 2 with respect to why the subject of split sleep should be
\3\ Note that study is only relevant to driver's who participate
in team driving scenarios, since this is the only situation where
the vehicle can be moving while a driver is in the sleeper berth.
Specific requirements for pilot programs are found in Subparts D
and E of 49 CFR part 381. A pilot program is a study in which
participants are given exemptions from one or more provisions of the
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs) for up to 3 years to
gather data to evaluate alternatives or innovative approaches to
regulations, while ensuring that an equivalent level of safety is
A pilot program must include a program plan that incorporates the
(2) A specific data collection and safety analysis plan that
identifies a method of comparing the safety performance for motor
carriers, CMVs, and drivers operating under the terms and conditions of
the pilot program, with the safety performance of motor carriers, CMVs,
and drivers that comply with the regulation;
(3) A reasonable number of participants necessary to yield
statistically valid findings;
(4) A monitoring plan to ensure that participants comply with the
terms and conditions of participation in the pilot program;
(5) Adequate safeguards to protect the health and safety of study
participants and the general public; and
(6) A plan to inform the States and the public about the pilot
program and to identify approved participants to
enforcement personnel and the general public. (49 CFR 381.500)
At the conclusion of each pilot program, the FMCSA will report to
Congress the findings and conclusions of the program and any
recommendations it considers appropriate, including suggested
amendments to laws and regulations that would enhance motor carrier,
CMV, and driver safety and improve compliance with the FMCSRs. (49 CFR
381.520)
The purpose of this pilot program is to examine whether regulatory
flexibility related to the sleeper berth provision could be used to
improve driver rest and alertness. Currently, any interstate driver who
(1) operates a property-carrying CMV equipped with a sleeper berth, and
(2) uses the sleeper berth provision, must take at least 8 consecutive
hours in the sleeper berth, plus a separate 2 consecutive hours either
returning to on-duty status. The pilot program would give participating
drivers a temporary exemption from this requirement for consolidated
sleeper berth time, within parameters specified by the Agency. For
study purposes, drivers would be allowed to split their sleep into no
more than two sleeper berth segments. Current regulations allow drivers
to use one 10 hour period, or splits of 9 and 1 hours or 8 and 2 hours.
Drivers operating under the exemption for this study would be allowed
to use any combination of split sleeper periods, totaling 10 hours,
with neither period being less than 3 hours,\4\ allowing for the driver
to use splits of 3 and 7 hours, 4 and 6 hours, or two 5 hour periods.
Following study enrollment, drivers would be able to use split or
consolidated sleep schedules as they choose (within study parameters),
but they must still meet the daily minimum rest requirements.
\4\ Note that if a driver has one period which is less than 3
hours, they are in compliance with current rules and therefore not
driving under the exemption.
This pilot program would recruit CDL drivers who operate a CMV
equipped with a sleeper berth and who regularly use the sleeper berth
provision. The study group would include drivers from small, medium,
and large carriers, as well as team drivers and owner-operators. To
ensure statistical significance, approximately 200 study group
participants are desired. Each participating driver would be
recommended, but not required, to complete the Driver Education Module
(Module 3) and Driver Sleep Disorders and Management Module (module 8)
of the NAFMP before data collection starts to ensure participants are
aware of the risks of driving fatigued and have tools available to
manage their fatigue throughout the study. Drivers will be asked
whether or not they chose to complete these modules, or whether they
had completed them prior to study application.
Participating carriers that meet the eligibility criteria, as
described later in this notice, may assist in recruiting study group
drivers. Drivers will be enrolled in the study contingent upon approval
from their carrier, as applicable (owner-operators will not need to
meet this requirement).
The pilot program would also collect driver identification details
and data on sleep, safety-critical events (SCEs), subjective sleepiness
ratings, and behavioral alertness for up to a 90-day period per driver.
FMCSA has designated a project manager for the pilot program.
Participating carriers would be publicly announced. FMCSA would develop
the applications, agreements, and forms to be used by interested
carriers and potential study group members.
Eligibility requirements and procedural matters are discussed in
Sections VII and VIII of this notice.
Motor carriers who have drivers participating in the pilot program
Grant permission for drivers to participate in the
Flexible Sleeper Berth Pilot Program.
Agree to comply with all pilot program procedures, which
will be established and made available in written form to carrier-
applicants prior to initiation of the pilot program.
Grant permission for researchers to install an onboard
monitoring system (OBMS) and/or electronic logging device (ELD) in each
participating driver's vehicle throughout the study duration.
Grant permission for drivers participating in the study to
operate under the flexible sleeper berth exemption, as well as an
exemption allowing participating drivers to maintain two hours of
service logs (the study-provided ELD system will be the only way to
properly track flexible sleeper berth hours of service).
In order to participate in the Flexible Sleeper Berth Pilot
Program, drivers must meet the following eligibility requirements:
Operate a CMV equipped with a sleeper berth and regularly
use the sleeper berth.
Be medically fit for duty (have a medical certificate that
is valid throughout the period of participation).
Have carrier approval for participation in the study
(unless driver is an owner-operator).
May not be a slip-seat driver who shares use of the same
truck or truck-tractor with another driver(s) during separate periods
such as shifts, days, or weeks.
Agree to the release of specific information \5\ to FMCSA
for purposes of the pilot.
\5\ Information will be specified by the time drivers apply to
participate. Collection of specified information must be approved
prior to initiation of pilot program.
Agree to study procedures,\6\ including the use of ELDs
and camera-based OBMSs.
\6\ Procedures will be specified by the time drivers apply to
participate. Specific procedures must be established and approved
prior to initiation of the pilot program.
Visit the pilot program Web site
(www.sleeperberthstudy.com) and complete an electronic application with
screening questionnaire, which will request the following details, at a
minimum: Name, carrier information, company name, job title, carrier
size, and whether the carrier's drivers have previously completed the
NAFMP (specifically modules 3 and 8). The carrier must grant permission
for OBMS and/or ELD equipment to be temporarily installed in the
vehicles of participating drivers, and for drivers to use the study-
provided ELD system for recording HOS during the period of data
collection (up to 90 days).
The carrier's representative must acknowledge that driver
data to include OBMS video, driving data, sleep data, performance data,
and caffeine data must remain confidential and will not be shared with
the company. The exception to this is ELD data for properly recording a
driver's HOS.
(www.sleeperberthstudy.com) and complete an electronic application and
minimum: Name, contact information, MEC expiration date, CDL status,
typical operation type (solo, team, or slip seat), location of their
home terminal, whether they regularly drive a truck equipped with a
sleeper berth, whether they regularly use their sleeper berth, whether
they have previously completed modules 3 and 8 of the NAFMP, and
whether they currently use paper or electronic HOS logs.
Participate in a phone call with a member of the research
team to confirm interest and eligibility.
Obtain carrier permission to participate (unless the
individual is an independent owner operator).
Provide written, informed consent after a briefing session
on data collection techniques and methods.
analysts. Factors to be collected from each participating carrier and
driver before the pilot program begins are discussed in Section VII of
this notice. Participating drivers will drive an instrumented vehicle
(instrumented by the research team with a study-provided OBMS and
custom ELD) for up to 90 days. During a pre-study briefing,
participants will receive a study-provided smartphone (installed with a
variety of data collection applications), as well as a wrist actigraphy
device.\7\ Participants whose vehicles are not already equipped with a
compatible ELD will be provided with an approved ELD application
(installed on the study-provided smartphone). At a minimum, FMCSA will
gather the following data during the study:
\7\ Participants will wear wrist actigraphy devices (similar to
ELD data, to evaluate duty hours and timing, driving hours
and timing, rest breaks, off-duty time, and restart breaks.
OBMS data, to evaluate driving behaviors, SCEs (crashes,
lane deviations, and traffic density (as discerned from viewpoints of
the multiple cameras), road curvature, and speed variability.
Roadside violation data (from carriers and drivers, as
well as the Commercial Driver's License Information System (CDLIS)),
Wrist actigraphy data, to evaluate total sleep time, time
of day sleep was taken, sleep latency, and intermittent wakefulness.
Psychomotor Vigilance Test (PVT) \8\ data, to evaluate
\8\ For this study, drivers will be required to complete daily
Sleepiness Scale,\9\ to measure drivers' perceptions of their fatigue
\9\ The KSS is a 9-point Likert-type scale ranging from
Other information that may be needed will also be collected through the
participating carrier. Every effort will be made to reduce the burden
on the carrier in collecting and reporting this data.
The pilot program will require participating motor carriers to
collect, maintain, and report to FMCSA certain information about their
drivers who are participating in the pilot program. This will include
identifying information and safety performance data for use in
analyzing the drivers' safety history. The Agency will develop forms to
promote uniformity in the data collected by the pilot carriers.
analysis and burden estimate to the Office of Management and Budget
(OMB) as a formal information collection request (ICR); the Agency
cannot conduct the information collection until OMB approves the ICR.
Because certain aspects of this pilot program--such as the content
of forms and reports--have not been finalized, the Agency is not
posting possible IC burden data at this time. When the pilot program is
implemented, this information will be posted and additional comments
FMCSA reserves the right to remove any motor carrier or driver from
the pilot program for reasons related, but not limited to, failure to
Instructions for filing comments to the public docket are included
earlier in this notice. FMCSA seeks information in the following areas,
but responses need not be limited to these questions:
1. Are any additional safeguards needed to ensure that the pilot
program provides a level of safety equivalent to that without the
consolidated sleeper berth time exemption?
2. Should completion of modules 3 and 8 of the NAFMP be required
for study participation (instead of recommended)?
3. Are the data collection efforts proposed for carriers and
drivers so burdensome as to discourage participation?