The Lack of Sleep and Workplace Accidents

Sleep deprivation is a serious issue in the workplace. Not getting enough sleep can lead to accidents and injuries. In a Swedish study of over 50,000 workers, those who self-reported disturbed sleep were twice as likely to die in a workplace accident.

This blog post will discuss sleep’s impact on workplace safety. We will also share tips for getting a good night’s sleep. So Stay safe and get enough sleep!

Guess what factor at least partially caused the following disasters?

  • The incident at Three Mile Island nuclear facility in 1979.
  • Bhopal Union Carbide tragedy in 1984.
  • Chernobyl in 1986.
  • The space shuttle Challenger accident in 1986.
  • Exxon Valdez oil spill in 1989.
  • Estonia ferry disaster in 1994.

Here’s a hint. The commonality is also related to each of the following:

  • A 32% reduction in performance and alertness in the workplace.
  • Impaired ability to think and process information.
  • Relationship problems.
  • Inability to pay attention.
  • Twofold higher risk of sustaining an occupational injury.
  • Unscheduled absenteeism.
  • 20% of all motor vehicle crashes.

What’s the link? What do all of these have in common? Sleep deprivation.

Solar Panel Construction Workers

Workers need adequate rest to safely perform their jobs.

The Problem of a Lack of Sleep

CNN reports that doctors believe fatigue to be “dangerous.” Additionally, research shows that “America’s sleep problems have reached epidemic proportions, and maybe the country’s number-one health problem.”

The National Commission on Sleep Disorders, as reported by CNN, believes the price tag for sleep deprivation in the workplace is $150 billion yearly in higher stress and reduced workplace productivity. This is because, as The State Compensation Insurance Fund reports, “sleep deprivation or fatigue affects a worker’s manual dexterity, reaction time and alertness.”

Sleep deprivation sets the stage for potential safety hazards, and severe accidents and costs, employers, money as well as often puts the public’s safety at risk, and this in addition to the price individual employees pay as they struggle with the impact of a lack of sleep.

Fortunately, sleep deprivation has many possible solutions.

Suggestions for Employees

The individual employee must first determine if sleep deprivation is a problem. While difficulty sleeping and/or lack of sleep are often apparent, many sleep problems are not easily identified.

First, determine if you are getting enough sleep. The CDC reported that most adults need 7-9 hours of sleep every night, but most actually get less than 6 hours.

Then, if sleep appears to be a problem, look for ways to improve your sleep and create patterns and conditions that promote healthy sleep. This includes maintaining a regular sleep/wake schedule, establishing a relaxing bedtime routine, avoiding or reducing caffeine and nicotine, and making sure your bed and pillows are comfortable.

Other suggestions include learning to leave stress at the office by writing the next day’s to-do list before leaving work for the day and establishing a relaxation routine for the drive home.

Most sleep problems lie within an individual’s ability to control. Your “sleep hygiene” can significantly impact your ability to get a good night’s sleep, wake feeling refreshed, and remain alert throughout the day.

Be aware that there are sleep conditions that you cannot fix on your own, and know “When to Call a Doctor About Sleep Disorders.”

Suggestions for Employers

While the onus for getting enough sleep lies primarily with the individual, employers can promote the idea of adequate sleep by implementing ideas such as the following:

  • First, promote regular rest by the amount of time off employees receive.
  • Second, provide frequent rest breaks during the workday.
  • Third, avoid shift lengths, such as those often found in hospitals, that often add to the number of mental errors.
  • Fourth, avoid requiring work beyond a regular shift, especially if a worker is obviously tired.
  • Finally, educate workers on the effects of inadequate sleep.

While employers are definitely limited in their impact on how much sleep employees get, they can still promote the importance of proper sleep and integrate information about sleep deprivation into workplace safety programs. The problem of sleep deprivation will not go away on its own. Therefore, employers and employees must take steps to promote the value of adequate sleep.

Summary

Sleep is a crucial component of our health and well-being. Without it, we can’t function properly as individuals or perform tasks effectively at work; this has serious consequences for safety in the workplace because tired employees are more likely to make mistakes that cause injury (or worse). The good news? You’re not alone if your sleep routine is less than ideal. Establishing proper rest habits and working with employers who understand the importance of rest will put you on the right path.