Sleepiness or drowsiness is the irresistible urge to fall asleep. When someone
is fatigued it means that he or she is physically exhausted, but it also means
that the ability to concentrate or do a task is reduced.
Some of the general effects of fatigue are:
- reduced attention
- reduced reaction time, both in speed and thought (a few studies have shown
this effect as similar to being legally drunk)
- failure to respond to changes in surroundings or information
- greater tendency for risk-taking
- more errors in judgement.
When driving, fatigue result in
- erratic driving like driving too fast or too slow,
- failing to obey traffic signs
- wandering out of your lane, over the centre line, or off the road.
What are some causes of fatigue?
Most people need around 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night. There are many causes
of fatigue, including working shift work or long hours, lots of physical or
mental activity, excessive stress, or a combination of these factors. Sometimes,
a sleep disorder may cause fatigue. Sleep disorders include insomnia, sleep
apnea, restless legs syndrome, and narcolepsy. The use of prescription medications,
as well as using nicotine, caffeine and alcohol can also affect sleep patterns.
What are some tips if I'm driving for a long time and might become fatigued?
The best advice is to not drive if you are tired. However, if you have to,
you can try some of these tips:
- change drivers if you are travelling with others.
- eat lightly and avoid heavy fatty foods
- stop often (about every two hours).
- stop and take a nap if possible
- taking a walk and getting some fresh air may help temporarily
Listening to the radio and driving with the window down are often suggested
but in studies, they have not been shown to be effective ways to stay awake.
Can't I just drink more coffee?
Some reports suggest that sleepy drivers could have 2 cups of coffee (or a
high caffeine alternative) and a 15-20 minute nap until the caffeine "kicks"
in. Other studies suggest avoiding caffeine and other stimulants because you
will feel very tired when they wear off. Overall, taking stimulants like caffeine
isn't really recommended because there really isn't much benefit and the effects
don't last for long. Nothing can overcome fatigue but a good long sleep.
How can workplaces help?
Workplaces can help by educating workers on the effects of drowsy driving,
especially those workers who work evening or night shifts.
If long hours of driving are required for the job (such as deliveries), workloads
should be monitored so that drivers are able to complete their tasks in a reasonable
amount of time. If periods of extended driving are required, rest breaks should
be scheduled.
If extended hours or overtime are common, workplaces should remember to consider
the time required for their workers' commute home, their meal preparation, eating
and socializing time with their families, etc. Workplaces might want to think
about providing:
- on-site accommodations
- prepared meals for workers
- places where employees can take a nap before they drive home
- pre-arranged car-pooling, public transportation, or a van or bus and driver
to bring employees home.
Resources
Fatigue
From: Canada Safety Council
Traffic
Safety
From: Canada Safety Council
Sleep
disorders
Source: Canadian Lung Association
Working
Safety Behind the Wheel
From: Workers' Compensation Board of Alberta
Fatigue
From: Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety
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