Massachusetts Workers' Compensation Lawyer Blog
When we are fatigued, even the most routine task can become challenging. But when the task at hand involves heavy machinery, high places, dangerous substances, or getting behind the wheel, fatigue can be deadly. When Massachusetts workers are fatigued they are less productive and prone to making more errors. So it stands to reason that employers wouldn’t want workers to be fatigued. Despite this logic, it’s not uncommon for employers to overwork employees; meeting deadlines and filling orders often take priority. But these short-sighted plans can create dangerous workplace conditions and can be costly for employers.
According to reports, employers lose about $136 billion annually to worker fatigue-related issues. In addition to lost productivity, fatigued workers can quadruple an employer’s workers’ compensation costs due to a higher frequency of accidents and subsequent injuries. Fatigued workers can hurt themselves, but they also put their co-workers at risk. If you’ve been injured in a work-related accident, contact a Boston work injury lawyer today.
Reducing Worker Fatigue
Employers can take steps to reduce worker fatigue, thus improving productivity, and reducing liability and associated costs. To do this they should:
- Discuss shift schedules with workers and take worker considerations into account.
- Meet the physiological and sociological criteria of individual workers.
- Test out different shift rotations for each worker to determine what works best.
Worker fatigue is not a minor concern. It is an issue that puts workers at risk on a daily basis and costs employers millions of dollars annually. If you feel that your workplace conditions are unsafe, report the conditions to a supervisor. If your supervisor does not respond to your concerns, you can contact the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), and contact a MA work injury lawyer today.
Signs and Symptoms of Fatigue
Although employers can take steps to prevent worker fatigue, some problems are rooted outside of the workplace. Insomnia, sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome, and narcolepsy can all disturb healthy sleep patterns and result in fatigue at work. Excessive alcohol use, some prescription and over the counter medications, and obesity are also contributing factors. The following signs are good indicators that a worker may be fatigued:
- General tiredness or sleepiness
- Depression
- Irritability
- Decreased appetite
- Digestive problems
- Chronic illness
When are Workers Sleepiest?
According to Alberta Human Resources and Employment, most fatigue-related work accidents occur during third shift hours, between midnight and six a.m. That’s no big surprise. But the one to three p.m. nap time came in at a close second. Fatigue reduces decision making abilities, communication skills, productivity and performance, attention and concentration, memory, reaction time, and a worker’s ability to handle stress. Being excessively tired on the job can also increase a tendency for risk taking, and can result in increased sick time, employee turnover, and overall medical costs. Bottom line – workplace fatigue is expensive.
Altman & Altman, LLP – Work Injury Lawyers Serving All of MA
If you have been injured in a work-related accident, the skilled work injury team at Altman & Altman, LLP can help. We have been fighting for the rights of MA workers for more than 50 years. Workers’ compensation should cover many of your expenses and a portion of your wages if you’ve been injured on the job, but application errors and missing information can result in delayed and reduced benefits. If you’ve been injured at work, it is in your best interest to consult with an experienced workers’ comp attorney immediately. At Altman & Altman, LLP, we will be by your side throughout the entire process. It is our goal to get you the full benefits you deserve in a timely manner. If you’ve been injured, we can help. Contact Altman & Altman, LLP today for a free and confidential consultation about your case.
