Fatigue at Work
Fatigue at Work
Why this is important:
To work safely, workers need to be physically and mentally alert. Fatigue is a major risk that can reduce alertness, lead to errors, and increase workplace incidents and injuries. Both PCBUs (Persons Conducting a Business or Undertaking) and workers share the responsibility to manage fatigue.
What is Fatigue?
Fatigue is a state of physical and/or mental exhaustion. It can reduce your ability to work safely and effectively.
Common causes of fatigue include:
Work schedules: Long hours, night shifts, and irregular schedules reduce recovery time. Night work disrupts natural sleep rhythms.
Sleep disruption: Adults generally need 7.5–9 hours of deep, uninterrupted sleep. Poor quality or short sleep causes fatigue.
Environmental conditions: Extreme temperatures, noise, and vibration from tools increase fatigue.
Physical and mental demands: Physically strenuous work or tasks requiring intense concentration cause fatigue.
Emotional stress: Work pressure, criticism, or personal issues can contribute to fatigue.
Responsibilities of PCBUs
PCBUs must ensure the health and safety of workers so far as is reasonably practicable. This includes:
Managing fatigue risks by:
Work schedules:
Ensure regular breaks and rest periods.
Limit excessively long shifts; stagger start times if needed.
Avoid scheduling critical tasks during low alertness periods (3–5 am & 3–5 pm).
Monitor overtime, shift swaps, and on-call duties.
Sleep:
Design rosters allowing adequate sleep and recovery.
Avoid frequent night shifts and early starts.
Workplace/environment:
Minimise exposure to extreme temperatures, noise, or vibrating equipment.
Provide rest areas and drinking water.
Physical & mental demands:
Rotate tasks to limit prolonged high-demand work.
Ensure workloads are realistic and equipment is suitable.
Emotional well-being:
Provide support for personal circumstances affecting workers.
Encourage a positive work environment and good supervision.
Fatigue policy:
Include maximum shift lengths, procedures for reporting fatigue, and training for workers.
Responsibilities of Workers
Workers must take reasonable care of their own health and safety and that of others:
Attend work fit and rested.
Recognise and report signs of fatigue: tiredness, lack of focus, yawning, poor decision-making, slower reactions.
Inform supervisors if tasks exceed their capacity.
Report fatigue-related incidents.
Practical Steps to Minimise Fatigue
Sleep: 7.5–9 hours of good-quality sleep nightly.
Breaks: Use rest periods to restore energy and alertness.
Nutrition & hydration: Eat balanced meals and drink enough water.
Stimulants: Avoid relying on coffee, nicotine, or drugs as substitutes for rest.
Work/life balance: Maintain hobbies and time off to recover mentally.
Medical advice: Seek professional help if fatigue persists.
Fatigue Checklist
Check if risks are present:
Physically or mentally demanding tasks?
Night work or irregular schedules?
Long hours or insufficient breaks?
Harsh work environment or vibration/noise exposure?
Workers arriving at work already tired?
If yes, assess fatigue risks and implement strategies.
Further information:
