National Safety Month: Recharge to be in Charge
Too little sleep can be dangerous at work. The National Safety Council (NSC) states that in addition to skewing situational awareness, it can significantly reduce reaction time, affect motor control and impair decision making.
We are an NSC member and make safety a priority everyday. In fact, it is a cornerstone of how we help our customers build safer communities, and safety plays into how we operate internally.
Avoid Workplace Fatigue
- Use a sleep schedule to go to bed and wake up at the same time each day.
- Keep your bedroom or sleeping area quiet, dark and comfortable while resting.
- Remember – beds are for sleeping; not reading or watching TV. Your bed should be a comfortable place to rest.
- Avoid using technology or any gadgets like smartphones or tablets that emit light. It can prevent solid, restful sleep.
- Avoid heavy meals directly before bedtime.
Sleep Tips for Shift Workers
The National Sleep Foundation recommends the following tips for shift workers:
- Where possible, avoid long commutes and extended working hours
- Take breaks throughout your shift and keep active
- Drink caffeinated beverages moderately
- Use the buddy system with other co-workers to keep one another alert
- On your commute home, wear sunglasses to block the sun
- Start and maintain a consistent bedtime and wake schedule
- Do your best to eliminate light and excess sound from your sleep environment
- If you are fatigued, do not drive or operate machinery
Visit the NSC’s website for more information and resources on National Safety Month.
