Fatigue at Work

Lack of sleep leads to an increase in mistakes, and accidents, at work

April 28 marks the International Day of Mourning, a day to remember and honour those who have lost their lives to a workplace accident or illness. 

One factor common to all occupations that increases the risk of accidents is fatigue. Studies have shown that when workers have slept for less than five hours before work or when they have been awake for more than 16 hours, their chance of making mistakes due to fatigue greatly increases. Workers should get at least between 7.5 to 8.5 hours of sleep per day. Shift workers are particularly at risk.

In our March 2021 issue of the Guide, we looked at some fatigue facts, signs, reasons, and workers who are particularly at risk. Download the PDF below for more.