Driving for long periods without a break increases the risk of fatigue-related incidents. So it's crucial to recognise the signs and learn how to deal with fatigue.
Understanding Driver Fatigue
Feeling fatigued means being sleepy, tired, or exhausted, to the point that it impairs your ability to function.
Crashes caused by fatigue are twice as likely to result in fatalities. Fatigued drivers lack the ability to brake and can be as dangerous as drunk drivers. It impairs concentration, judgment, and reaction time. Studies indicate that being awake for approximately 17 hours has a similar impact on driving as having a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.05.
Recognise the Signs
To prevent fatigue crashes, it is important to identify the early warning signs:
- Yawning
- Poor concentration
- Sore/tired eyes
- Restlessness
- Drowsiness
- Slow reactions
- Boredom
- Oversteering
Assess Your Competency
Before accepting deliveries, ensure you are physically and mentally capable, especially in relation to driver fatigue.
Sherpa's Safety Recommendations
Take regular breaks
Plan to take regular breaks from driving, even if you don’t feel tired. Taking breaks during long drives is crucial for maintaining focus and alertness on the road, reducing the risk of accidents due to driver fatigue.
Limit working hours
Avoid working more than 10 consecutive hours within a 24-hour period. This is crucial for maintaining a healthy work-life balance, preventing burnout, and ensuring overall well-being. Working excessively long hours can lead to fatigue, decreased productivity, and increased stress levels, which can have detrimental effects on both physical and mental health. When working long hours, it becomes challenging to maintain focus and concentration, which can result in errors and mistakes.
Maintain healthy sleeping habits
Make sure you are well-rested by getting sufficient sleep. If you don't get enough sleep, you accumulate a 'sleep debt' which can only be repaid by sleeping. After waking up, wait at least 30 minutes before driving as there is a heightened risk of fatigue, known as 'sleep inertia', which typically lasts 15 to 30 minutes.
Stretch and walk
It is important to take regular breaks to stretch and walk, especially if you have been sitting for an extended period of time. Take a break to stretch and walk at least every 4 hours to prevent stiffness and improve circulation. It can help you stay more alert and focused, improve your mood, and boost your overall productivity.
These principles are detailed in the driver’s onboarding manual under “Road Safety”.
For more information, check your State or Territory's road agency for additional tips.