What is fatigue?
Fatigue is more than just a sense of tiredness or drowsiness. It may involve both emotional and physical distress which can have an effect on your ability to perform your job safely. It’s possible that you’ll get hurt as a result of this. Are you able to spot the signs?

What are the causes of fatigue?
It’s important to comprehend the root causes. It may be linked to personal circumstances and/or occupational variables that play a role.

Workplace fatigue can be more prevalent in some workplaces or sectors. Shift employees, night workers, remote workers, fly-in/fly-out workers, emergency service workers, seasonal workers, health professionals, and disability support workers are only a few examples.

This list is not comprehensive, and you can conduct a thorough risk assessment to determine if your employees will be affected.

10 signs of Fatigue

• Poor visual perception or blurred vision
• Excessive tiredness or drowsiness/lack of energy
• Migraines or headaches
• Feeling light-headed
• Having trouble concentrating/memory issues
• Finding it difficult to wake up on days off from work
• Muscle ache or soreness/muscle fatigue
• Reactions and reflexes are slower.
• Changes in behavior, such as irritability and moodiness
• Impaired judgment and decision-making

What can be done to reduce the risk of fatigue in the workplace?
Consultation is important. Risk assessments should be carried out in collaboration with administrators, team leaders, and employees. Include the following risk-management steps to be implemented:

• Maintain Workplace Safety Systems
• Examine and re-evaluate work schedules and rosters
• Assist staff in recognizing and reporting fatigue-related hazards.
• Conduct safety surveys that include fatigue management-related questions.
• Implement a wellness program for employees.
• Check to see if employees are regularly working long hours or showing up to work sick.

Due to the pandemic, many people are working from home, so make sure to check on the workload effect at home.

If you would like to know more about how to manage risk, give us a call today at 1300 027 057 and speak with our safety experts.