Daylight Saving Time (DST) ends at 2:00 a.m. on Sunday, November 3, 2024, when most of the U.S. will turn their clocks back one hour. It may seem like you are gaining an extra hour of sleep, but this shift disrupts our circadian rhythm, which regulates essential biological processes like hormone production and sleep patterns. Even little changes in sleep can lead to fatigue, affecting your performance at work and increasing the risk of accidents on the road. Fatigue isn't something to ignore—it can have serious, even deadly, consequences.
Fatigue in the Workplace
According to the CDC, more than 49% of full-time workers report not getting enough sleep, with women being more affected (55%) than men (45%). This is especially true for those who work night shifts, long hours, or irregular schedules. Fatigued employees can pose serious risks to workplace safety. Tired workers are far more likely to make costly mistakes that lead to accidents.
Consider these key facts:
Safety performance drops significantly when employees are tired.
62% of night shift workers experience sleep loss.
Fatigued workers cost employers between $1,200 and $3,100 per employee every year in lost productivity.
Workers on rotating shifts are at greater risk because their bodies struggle to adjust to inconsistent sleep patterns.
The Risks of Fatigue While Driving
Drowsy driving is just as dangerous as driving under the influence of alcohol. However, we’re much more likely to overlook fatigue as a risk factor when getting behind the wheel. The National Safety Council reports:
Fatigued drivers are three times more likely to be involved in a crash.
Losing just two hours of sleep has the same effect as drinking three beers.
Being awake for more than 20 hours is the equivalent of driving drunk.
As we head into the fall season and days get shorter, many people will adjust to driving in the dark during the evening rush hour. The CDC warns that this sudden change in lighting conditions increases the risk of crashes, as drivers may still need to adjust their habits to nighttime driving fully.
Why Sleep Matters
Sleep is essential to your overall health and well-being. Adults should aim for 7 to 9 hours of sleep per night, yet many average less than six. Chronic sleep deprivation can lead to a host of health problems, including:
Depression.
Obesity.
Cardiovascular disease.
Weakened immune systems.
Fatigue also has a significant economic impact. According to the National Safety Council, employers lose an estimated $136 billion yearly due to health-related productivity losses from tired employees.
It’s Time to Take Fatigue Seriously
Despite the severe consequences, many people receive little education on the importance of sleep and how to avoid fatigue-related dangers. Employers must address this issue by promoting awareness and implementing systems to manage workplace fatigue risks.
For most people, the effects of springing forward or falling back gradually subside over a few days or weeks. The Sleep Foundation recommends these tips to help limit the negative impacts on your sleep in the days and weeks leading to time changes.
Avoid Alcohol Before Bed.
Establish a Consistent Sleep Routine
Gradually Alter Your Bedtime
Spend Time Outdoors.
Nap in moderation
Don’t consume caffeine too close to bedtime.