
Sitting at my desk with my trusty computer in front of me
does not put me in a position where I can do too much damage. But what if I were
in a factory or warehouse operating heavy machinery, or driving a forklift, or
loading racks, or unloading trucks? That could – and would – be a totally
different case. Lack of sleep affects working safely in a number of ways; it
can reduce reaction times, motor control, decision-making ability and awareness.
In fact lack of sleep not only affects workers’ ability to
perform their work safely, but can also put others in harm’s way. Lack of sleep
can cause serious or even fatal accidents.
Think about this. A person awake for 20 hours performs at a
level equal to someone with a blood alcohol level of 0.08%. Would you want that
person to be operating heavy machinery or driving a forklift in your facility?
Not likely. According to a National Sleep Foundation study revealed that 103
million people admitted to falling asleep at the wheel. The National Highway
Traffic Administration conservatively estimated that 100,000 police-reported
crashes are the direct result of driver fatigue resulting in deaths, injuries
and billions in monetary losses.
Yet, sleep is not generally looked upon as a priority. Most
likely each of us has at one time boasted about pulling an all-nighter and
still being on time for work the next day like it was some sort of badge of
honor. Wrong. Anything that can compromise safety should be high on the list of
things to be monitored.
Look for the signs in your employees – frequent yawning,
drooping eyelids, difficulty in concentration, forgetfulness and mood swings
are just a few. Educate your employees on the importance of good sleeping
habits and the consequences of bad ones. Include it in your training programs
and as part of a comprehensive safety program. After all, it could just save a
life.
Posted by MJ Thomas
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