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Fatigue: Staying Alert on Site and on the Road
Fatigue is as dangerous as being drunk: rest properly to stay alive on site and on the road.
Why this matters
- Fatigue is among the most common causes of accidents on the road and on site. It works like a drug. It slows your brain and your hands. If you are tired, you cannot see a hazard coming or react fast enough to save yourself.
- The danger does not end when you clock out. Many accidents happen during the commute home when your body finally tries to shut down. This is especially true after long shifts or night work. Your safety depends on how you spend your time off the site: rest is part of your job.
Talking points
- Prioritize sleep: Try to get a full, uninterrupted rest period between every single shift.
- Recognize the signs: Heavy eyelids, constant yawning, and drifting thoughts mean you are a risk to everyone.
- Eat for energy: Avoid very heavy, greasy meals during your break as they can make you feel more sluggish.
- The drive home: If you are driving or in a carpool, keep the air moving and talk to each other to stay alert.
- Stop if you are drifting: If you feel your eyes closing while driving, pull over safely at the first opportunity.
- Look out for your buddy: If a teammate is making simple mistakes or seems dazed, they might be dangerously tired.
- Hydration matters: Not drinking enough water makes your body feel much more exhausted than it actually is.
Ask the crew
- What are the first signs you feel when you are becoming dangerously tired?
- How can we help each other stay alert during the final hour of a long shift?
- What is your plan to ensure you get enough sleep before tomorrow morning?
Download the PDF with attendance sheet
More health & body talks
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