10/12/2025
Fatigue is more than feeling worn out after a long day - it’s a genuine workplace hazard that can affect anyone, in any industry. When fatigue sets in, focus fades, reactions slow and judgment becomes less reliable. Across Australia, it has been linked to a substantial number of workplace incidents, highlighting just how much tiredness can compromise safety.
In busy or high-pressure environments, even small lapses can lead to serious mistakes. That’s why managing fatigue is just as important as managing any other risk on site. Encouraging proper rest and recovery between shifts, supporting reasonable workloads and ensuring workers have time to switch off can make a measurable difference. During tasks, taking short resets helps maintain alertness, and revisiting isolations, measurements or critical steps reduces the chance of something being overlooked.
Fatigue management isn’t just a personal responsibility, it’s a workplace responsibility. Good systems, fair rostering practices, open communication and early recognition of warning signs all contribute to safer outcomes.
At Work OH&S works with organisations to identify fatigue risks and put practical measures in place, helping teams stay alert, capable and safe throughout the working day. Reach out for more information - https://ap1.hubs.ly/y0r0d60