Drinking and driving campaigns
There are consequences for the choices you make behind the wheel. A moment of inattention, taking unnecessary risks or driving impaired can all have long-term consequences for you and your loved ones if you get in a collision
For people who drive as part of their work, fatigue is a major risk factor. It can slow reaction times, affect concentration and undermine their ability to drive safely.
Causes of fatigue
A number of factors in the workplace and in a person’s private life can lead to fatigue. Some factors include:
- Extended working hours, and irregular and unpredictable working hours
- Early starts, and working at night
- Shift work, and having more than one job
- Sleep disorders
- Social and community commitments, including babies and sick dependents at home
- Not getting enough sleep or having poor-quality sleep
- Stress
How to beat fatigue at home
Your staff can do a lot to avoid fatigue by changing some of the things they do at home. Suggest these helpful advises:
- Make sleep a priority – aim to get enough good-quality sleep every night; eight hours is ideal for adults
- Ask friends, family or flat mates to cooperate and support you to get enough sleep so that you avoid becoming fatigued
- Avoid eating and drinking too much before you go to bed – if you are hungry, have a light snack
- Avoid alcohol, caffeine and cigarettes before bed
- Take power naps – even a short power nap of 20 minutes improves your ability to function
- Each individual must take responsibility and communicate if they are fatigued.
How to beat fatigue at work
Encourage your drivers to consider the following tips to overcome tiredness while working:
- Pull over and take a power nap in the passenger seat – don’t nap behind the wheel
- Get out and walk around the vehicle – this will help you to become alert
- Get a good night’s sleep as soon as you can
- Look at how your work is structured, and talk to your employer about rotating work and varying tasks. If possible, plan short trips for the ends of shifts
- Talk to your employer about any fatigue problems
- Liven up the work environment with fresh air, music or conversation
- Always observe the legal driving hours, take regular rest breaks, eat nutritious food and drink plenty of water
- Advise your employer of any incidents, accidents or near misses while at work.
Please Click Here to Read more about Fatigue driving brochure 2012
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Road Safety Communication Team
