How Shiftwork Affects Safety

Shiftwork can disrupt natural sleep cycles, reduce mental alertness, and increase the risk of fatigue-related incidents. Workers on night, early morning, or rotating shifts face unique safety challenges that must be managed proactively.

Common Hazards for Shift Workers

• Fatigue and slowed reaction times.
• Decreased awareness of surroundings and hazards.
• Isolation and lack of supervision during off-peak hours.
• Increased stress and reduced social/family time.
• Greater likelihood of working alone or in low visibility.

Safety Strategies for Shiftwork

• Take scheduled breaks to recharge and stay alert.
• Eat light, healthy meals to maintain energy without sluggishness.
• Limit caffeine to early in the shift to avoid sleep disruption later.
• Use bright lighting and rotate tasks when possible to reduce monotony.
• Practice proper sleep hygiene between shifts (dark rooms, consistent schedules).

What Employers and Supervisors Can Do

• Provide awareness training and mental health resources.
• Ensure supervisors check in regularly with night crews.
• Encourage open reporting of fatigue or incidents.
• Design shift schedules that allow sufficient rest between shifts.