Haul truck drivers at a large mine were experiencing ‘micro-sleeps’ of up to 5 seconds long while in control of their vehicles. This was occurring despite a comprehensive and well-implemented fatigue management program. Management saw it as a wake-up call and decided to involve employees more in managing their own fatigue factors.
How information about health education, fatigue management and lifestyle training is presented to shift workers makes a difference. Creating a real learning experience for shift workers is a key strategy.
In this case, Shiftwork Solutions developed a Fatigue Champions program which provided specialised training to selected employees on fatigue, health and lifestyle for shift workers. These employees were also taught how to take the role of mentors and advisors for their co-workers increasing fatigue awareness and encouraging cultural changes that improved alertness.
