Productivity & Health Care Costs For Tired Employees

Occupational fatigue affects more than 20 percent of the United States working population.

In fact, a National Sleep Foundation report showed that 29% of Americans became sleepy at work, or fell asleep on the job. Consequently, workplace fatigue results in over $136 billion in lost productivity and health care costs each year.

OSHA defines fatigue as “a message to the body to rest.”

Typically, it’s caused by staying awake too long, or lacking quality sleep over time. When fatigued, workers experience mental or physical exhaustion. That leads to the inability to function and perform normal tasks.

Thus, for employers, workplace fatigue is dangerous, if not properly managed.

The CCHOS categorizes fatigue as either acute or chronic.

Acute fatigue, generally linked to lack of adequate sleep, is easily fixed with rest and relaxation.

Chronic fatigue, however, is harder to manage. More than 1 million Americans suffer from Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) – a constant and severe tiredness not improved by rest.

It mostly occurs with people in their 40s and 50s; an age group that covers over one-third of the American working population. Its symptoms affect several body systems, and they worsen with physical and/or mental activity.

The Dangers of Occupational Fatigue

Whether it’s acute or chronic, occupational fatigue presents many dangers. Researchers compare lack of sleep to alcohol consumption, and it’s universally known that drinking alcohol before work is a bad idea.

So, consider this:

• 17 consecutive hours awake is equivalent to a blood-alcohol content of 0.05
• 21 consecutive hours awake is equivalent to a blood-alcohol content of 0.08
• 24-25 consecutive hours awake is equivalent to a blood-alcohol content of .10

A 2016 study conducted at the University of Colorado at Boulder concluded that the major drivers of occupational fatigue were sleep deprivation and work environment factors, such as noise and temperature.

Also, the study cited the most notable consequences of fatigue as “short-term degradation in cognitive (thinking) and physical functioning.” Those repercussions result in human error, illnesses and accidents.

Research suggests that fatigue played a role in disasters such as the Exxon Valdez oil spill and Chernobyl nuclear accident.

How to Address Workplace Fatigue

OSHA recommends that managers, if possible, limit extended shifts and increase the number of days that employees work as a means to manage fatigue.

By taking breaks, relaxing, and eating consistent meals in quiet areas, workers can re-establish energy. It’s also vital for employers to limit hazardous chemicals in work areas, especially ones in which employees work extended shifts.

High-stress environments, repetitive work, and extreme temperatures all increase the likelihood of workplace fatigue.

Thus, by promoting wellness,  allowing more breaks, and maintaining stable temperatures (when possible), you’re putting your employees in a position to succeed. In turn, you’re also creating a safe work environment and productive workforce.