Driver fatigue is a hidden hazard for construction employees, whether they’re laborers, tradespeople, site supervisors, or office staff. If they’re fatigued when hauling tools or materials, travelling between job sites, or driving to see clients, they face an increased risk of crashing.
Fatigue can be mental or physical or both. It impairs reaction times, reduces alertness, and impacts decision-making. It doesn’t discriminate based on skill or experience, and its causes extend beyond inadequate sleep. For construction workers, early starts, long hours, and irregular schedules can all contribute to fatigue.
How driving-related claims affect your business
The general construction sector in B.C. had 1,122 driving-related claims over the last decade, according to WorkSafeBC stats. Construction trades helpers and labourers had the sixth most driving-related claims among all occupations.
Crashes don’t just harm employees. They hurt your business too. They can lead to:
- Lost productivity and staffing challenges. Workers injured in a vehicle-related incident are off the job for 91 days on average.
- Financial strain. The average driving-related claim in B.C. costs more than $56,000, which could affect your insurance premiums.
- Potential legal liability.
Steps employers can take
Developing a strategy for reducing driver fatigue is smart business. It can help save lives and reduce the risk of injuries. It can also help you meet your legal responsibilities.
Here are some things you can do:
- Make fatigue a priority. Include it in your fit-for-duty assessments and encourage workers to report it without fear of judgment.
- Add fatigue to your impairment policy. It impairs an employee's ability to work safely, just like drugs or alcohol.
- Use flexible scheduling. Rotate shifts to prevent the same employees from always taking on the longest shifts or earliest starts.
- Discuss fatigue regularly. Use toolbox talks or other staff meetings to review causes, warning signs, and prevention strategies.
- Promote healthy habits. Emphasize the importance of adequate sleep, a balanced diet, and staying hydrated to maintain energy.
No-cost resources to help you get started
Road Safety at Work provides practical resources suitable for construction firms of any size. Here are a few to check out:
For additional occupational road safety information and resources, visit RoadSafetyAtWork.ca.
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