To sleep or not to sleep!
There is a reason why humans need sleep. The best reason is so we are equipped to make informed decisions. Nevertheless, some would argue the best decisions have been made whilst people have been half-asleep or dreaming! These decisions have probably been more self-indulgent type decisions!
We are forever reading or hearing such things as: “we need 8 hours of sleep a night”; “our best sleep is in the first few hours”; “broken sleep is detrimental”. All of these points are valid but common sense must always prevail because situations are not perfect!
Do we shut up shop for a siesta or introduce power naps? We are all going to be fresh at the beginning of the day rather than the end. All of us have nights out and are sleep deprived and a little fragile at times.
Our need for sleep and the challenge to achieve the perfect balance is why companies are required to do all they can to ensure the workplace is a safe one. Signs may sometimes seem silly to those alert and bouncing around, however, it could prevent a hazard being caused by a sleep deprived worker.
Luckily, the way we are made, when an accident occurs our body uses its reserve or adrenalin and our response is instantaneous.
Sleep is important, but let’s not be stressed about how much and let’s use our common sense. A tip: don’t schedule a safety and risk meeting at 5pm on a Friday afternoon. Hint: do it when people are bright eyed and bushy-tailed!
Dave C says
I think you nailed it!!! We go to so much effort and expense to identify, assess and control risks in the workplace and any administrative controls are based around normal human behaviour and perceptions. We can encourage people to show up for work by paying them. However, one of the most critical factors in preventing workplace injury is measuring and controlling HOW they show up for work. This includes not only their cognitive dissonance but also, as you point out, their cognitive functioning – which can be severely impaired by lack of sleep.
Shaz's Info says
thank you for your encouragement.