Making healthy lifestyle choices is the foundation for working safely.
Did you know that fatigue was cited as a root cause in many major industrial accidents, including the Chernobyl nuclear disaster, Texas City refinery explosion and Exxon Valdez oil spill?
A fatigued person can suffer from slower reactions, memory lapses, decreased awareness, underestimation of risk and reduced coordination. If not appropriately managed, fatigue can lead to errors, reduced productivity, accidents, ill health, injury and death.
Know the signs of fatigue, and take action when necessary for yourself and coworkers to ensure a safe, healthy work environment. See the table below for the signs to look for.
| Physical Symptoms | Mental Symptoms | Emotional Symptoms | |
| Mild | • Yawning • Heavy limbs • Sluggish |
• Disorganization • Easily distracted |
• Quiet and withdrawn • Lack of motivation • Increased stress |
| Moderate | • Headache • Sore/bloodshot eyes • Nausea • Poor coordination • Slow reaction speed |
• Poor communication • Poor concentration • Poor memory |
• Mood change • Decreased tolerance • Irritability |
| Extreme | • Extreme drowsiness • Heavy eyelids • Microsleep/headnods • Falling asleep |
• Poor decision-making • Risk-taking behavior • Errors |
• Uncontrolled temper • Aggression |
Prevent fatigue and make sure you’re READY to work safely by using this easy tool:
Want some tips to get better sleep? Try this website.