Employee fatigue appears to be a growing problem for many companies. Longer work weeks—which are now routine and, perhaps, even expected—can put extra pressure on already stressed workers. To add to the strain, technological advances that make employees constantly accessible can prevent workers from escaping their jobs at night and on weekends. Also, the effects of restructurings, mergers, and downsizing sometimes leave employees carrying heavier workloads while they fear losing their jobs. Workers may feel like hamsters scrambling on exercise wheels that never stop.

When employees are excessively tired, poor attention and slow reflexes may lead to less productivity and efficiency. Further, if employee fatigue results in an accident involving your business, you and your business may be held liable.

What can you do to reduce the risk of excessive tiredness in your work force? To begin, recognize the problem and the extent to which it affects your workers. Then, take steps to prevent fatigue on the job by addressing this issue in your risk management program: train your managers to watch for signs of sleep deprivation, investigate ways to adjust staffing levels so no employee is overworked, set realistic job expectations and assignment deadlines, and solicit input from your employees.

Workplace fatigue can be a serious problem that can affect your bottom line. By helping your employees remain alert, you may not only increase your productivity and reduce your liability, but you may also prevent personal injury, property damage, and loss of life.