Fact Sheet: Managing Work-Related Fatigue

What Is Fatigue?

Fatigue is more than just feeling tired. It’s a state of physical and/or mental exhaustion that reduces a person’s ability to perform work safely and effectively. Fatigue impacts alertness, decision-making, coordination, and reaction times. It can pose serious risks in the workplace if not recognised.

Why Does Fatigue Matter at Work?

• Increases the risk of workplace accidents and injuries
• Reduces productivity and work quality
• Contributes to long-term health problems
• Impacts morale and workplace culture

Common Workplace Causes of Fatigue

• Long shifts and excessive overtime
• Irregular or rotating shifts
• Night work disrupting natural sleep patterns
• High workloads or understaffing
• Monotonous or physically demanding tasks
• Lack of breaks or rest periods
• Workplace stress or unsafe conditions

Recognising Signs of Fatigue on the Job

• Slower reaction times
• Poor concentration and memory
• Increased error rates
• Irritability and low mood
• Microsleeps (brief moments of sleep while awake)
• Frequent yawning or drifting off

Employer Responsibilities

Under workplace health and safety laws, employers have a duty of care to manage fatigue risks by:

• Designing safe shift patterns and limiting overtime
• Ensuring adequate rest breaks and recovery time
• Assessing fatigue risks as part of regular hazard identification
• Encouraging reporting of fatigue without fear of punishment
• Supporting a healthy work environment

How Trade Unions Can Support Members

• Advocate for safe staffing levels and realistic workloads
• Push for strong fatigue risk management policies
• Promote fair and predictable scheduling of shifts and workload
• Support members in reporting fatigue without stigma
• Provide training and awareness campaigns
• Monitor employer compliance with safety laws

Tips for Workers to Manage Fatigue

• Prioritise sleep: Aim for regular hours of rest when off shift
• Take scheduled breaks—don’t work through them
• Avoid heavy meals, caffeine, and alcohol before sleep
• Use your voice and report fatigue to your supervisor or delegate
• Know your rights around working hours and breaks

Know Your Rights

The WEU is here to help and advise you if:

• You’re being pushed to work unsafely
• You’re penalised for reporting fatigue
• You need support negotiating safer work schedules

“Fatigue is a workplace hazard, not a personal failure.” Employers must manage it like any other safety risk. Please remember that the WEU is ready to give advice and support when needed—just call our office.