Fatigue can affect alertness, reaction time, communication and decision-making. Poor sleep is a common cause, but extended hours, irregular shifts and physically or mentally demanding work can also contribute.
It can help to notice when tiredness occurs. Consider whether it follows a particular shift pattern, repeated overtime or several nights of interrupted sleep. The
Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) identifies both workplace and personal factors as contributors to fatigue, so prevention needs to consider what happens during work and between shifts.