Driver fatigue is one of the major causes of road crashes in Australia. The Transport Accident Commission reports that driver fatigue is a factor in 20 per cent of all fatal road crashes in Victoria. Meanwhile, in Queensland, the Centre for Accident Research and Road Safety estimates that drowsiness contributes to 20 to 30 per cent of all road fatalities and serious injuries.
Fatigue is also four times more likely to impair a driver than drugs or alcohol. For fleet managers who oversee drivers operating around the clock, it’s crucial to understand how driver fatigue affects their fleet’s safety.
The Toll of Fatigue on Driving Performance
Fatigue can severely impair both physical and mental capabilities, reducing a driver’s ability to operate a vehicle safely. It impacts driver performance in several ways:
- Decreased Attention and Concentration: Fatigue compromises a driver’s ability to focus on the road, making them more susceptible to distractions and errors.
- Slowed Reaction Times: A tired driver may take longer to respond to changing conditions, which can be the difference between a safe journey and a tragic accident.
- Inconsistent Speeds: Fatigued drivers may struggle to maintain a steady speed, leading to erratic driving patterns that can confuse other road users.
- Increased Crash Risk: Research has shown that the risk of crashing rises dramatically with inadequate sleep. Drivers who sleep only five hours face a staggering 4.4 times greater risk of an accident compared to those who get the recommended eight hours.
Recognising the Signs of Fatigue
Understanding the early signs of fatigue is crucial for preventing accidents. One of the key indicators is poor concentration, which makes it difficult for a driver to focus on the road or the task at hand. Mood changes, such as increased irritability or emotional instability, as well as daydreaming or drifting off in thought, are also common signs of fatigue.
Fatigued drivers may have difficulty maintaining a constant speed, indicating lapses in attention. Additionally, increased blinking can be a sign of tiredness or drowsiness.
There are also physical symptoms that drivers need to watch out for, including stiffness, aches, cramps, and tired eyes.
By recognising these symptoms early, drivers can take appropriate actions to prevent accidents and ensure road safety.
Recommendations for Drivers
To mitigate the risk of fatigue, drivers should adhere to the following best practices:
- Plan Journeys Ahead of Time: Effective trip planning can help avoid fatigue by considering factors like travel distance, timing, and breaks.
- Prioritise Adequate Sleep: Drivers should aim for a good night’s sleep before hitting the road.
- Avoid Long Drives After Long Workdays: Fatigue is compounded after extended work hours, so it’s crucial to avoid lengthy drives in such situations.
- Do Not Rely on Stimulants: Caffeine and energy drinks are ineffective long-term solutions for fatigue; rest is the only real remedy.
- Limit Night Travel: If possible, avoid driving during early morning hours (1 am to 6 am), when natural body rhythms dictate sleep.
- Take Regular Breaks: Drivers should recognise their signs of fatigue and stop to take breaks or power naps when necessary.
Recommendations for Fleet Managers
Fleet managers play a pivotal role in fostering a culture of safety regarding driver fatigue. Here are several strategies to enhance fatigue management:
- Empower Drivers: Encourage workers to feel confident about pulling over to take breaks whenever they need to.
- Foster a Culture of Safety: Promote open and transparent communication about fatigue and the importance of sleep within your organisation.
- Incorporate Fatigue Management Practices: Integrate fatigue management into your risk management framework by organising shifts, breaks, and ensuring compliance with fatigue management protocols.
- Prioritise Sleep as a Core Value: Emphasise the importance of adequate rest and sleep as integral components of driver wellbeing.
- Encourage Self-Awareness: Create an environment where employees feel comfortable reporting early signs of fatigue. Setting an example by discussing fatigue openly can encourage this practice.
- Implement Safe Trip Planning: Introduce flexible work measures that accommodate drivers’ needs and minimise stress during travel.
Take Action Today
To assist fleet managers in addressing driver fatigue, the National Road Safety Partnership Program (NRSPP) has developed a comprehensive resource called the Light Vehicle Toolbox Talk: Sleep First, Drive Second. This resource provides valuable insights and strategies for managing fatigue effectively within your fleet operations.
Prioritising sleep and safety can make a significant difference in protecting your drivers and ensuring the wellbeing of your organisation. Download the toolbox from the NRSPP website today.
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