Many factors make workers more susceptible to workplace injuries in Pennsylvania and throughout the U.S. Conditions such as being sick or coming in to work under the influence contribute to a higher rate of injury.
The condition of fatigue or not getting enough sleep also places office and production workers at greater risk of injury. While this condition is a known risk for the transportation industry, the role of fatigue in other work environments is perhaps less publicized.
Study highlights impact of workplace fatigue
A report by the National Law Review considered information from a National Safety Council study on fatigue: Managing Fatigue: Developing an Effective Fatigue Risk Management System. Important findings from the study include the following information:
- Roughly 13% of workplace injuries originate from fatigue of workers
- About $400 billion in lost economic impact comes from fatigue of workers
- A culture that downplays the importance of fatigue permeates some businesses
A data-driven approach to fatigue reveals that the transportation industry faces some of the most important challenges for workers. The National Transportation Safety Board describes fatigue as a “pervasive problem.”
Study looks at solutions
The report by the NSC wanted to recommend solutions to reduce fatigue and fatigue-related injuries in the workplace. A suite of recommendations for businesses include the following programs:
- More education and training
- Shared responsibility among workers and employers
- Fatigue mitigation such as environmental controls and rest opportunities
- Better policies and practices such as shift scheduling and limits to work hours
The goal of the study sought to implement continuous improvement in workplaces through data that allowed for measuring outcomes and applying key lessons. A long list of solutions could lead to higher quality of life and reduced injuries for workers.
