Worker fatigue has become more prevalent across industries, and it can be particularly dangerous in industries such as manufacturing where workers are in contact with equipment.
In fact, a recent study by the National Safety Council found that 97 percent of workers have at least one workplace fatigue risk factor, and more than 80 percent have two or more risk factors – increasing the likelihood of injuries on the job.
It’s important to watch for the signs of fatigue within your workforce, which can include:
- Loss of appetite, muscle pain, anxiety, headaches
- Reduced reaction times due to drowsiness
- Dozing off at the worksite, shortened attention spans
To combat fatigue in workers, businesses can implement a Fatigue Risk Management Plan:
- Develop a process to relieve a worker from duties if fatigued
- Rotate workers through repetitive or strenuous manufacturing tasks
- Schedule work in shorter shifts, capping shifts at 12 hours when possible
- Create an environment where workers feel comfortable reporting fatigue
- Provide sufficient off-duty time for workers to obtain adequate rest
For more ways to prevent worker fatigue, visit The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
