Drowsy driving prevention week

Hettrick Cyr & Associates advocates saftey in shipping and transportation. 

November 1–7 is Drowsy Driving Prevention Week. Fatigue can impair reaction time, judgment and attention, increasing the risk of serious crashes.

As days shorten and holiday schedules become busier, remind employees who drive for work to recognize fatigue. Warning signs include frequent yawning, difficulty focusing, lane drifting and missed signs or exits. Employees should also pay attention to changes in alertness before getting behind the wheel. Starting a trip already tired can make it harder to stay focused as the drive continues, particularly during long or demanding workdays.

Drivers should take early signs of fatigue seriously rather than trying to push through them. Before leaving, consider whether you are alert enough to drive safely, especially after a long shift or an unusually demanding day. If fatigue develops on the road, finding a safe place to stop should take priority over staying on schedule.

Persistent daytime sleepiness may indicate a sleep disorder, such as sleep apnea. Anyone with ongoing fatigue should consult a healthcare provider and avoid driving when unsafe.

To help reduce the risk of drowsy driving:

• Get adequate sleep before driving.
• Plan realistic schedules and regular rest breaks.
• Check medications for drowsiness warnings and avoid alcohol or other substances that increase fatigue.
• If drowsy, stop in a safe place and rest. Fresh air, loud music and caffeine are not substitutes for sleep.
• Prioritize safety over deadlines and support employees who report fatigue.

Employers can also help prevent fatigue-related incidents by building adequate rest into work schedules and encouraging employees to report when they are too tired to drive safely. Regular conversations about fatigue can help make drowsy driving prevention part of an organization’s everyday safety culture, rather than a concern addressed only during awareness campaigns.

Please share this message with employees, supervisors and anyone who drives for work. During November, discuss fatigue in a toolbox talk or safety meeting and explain how employees can report concerns or request schedule changes without penalty. Supervisors can reinforce these conversations throughout the year by encouraging drivers to speak up when they feel too tired to continue safely and by treating fatigue as a legitimate workplace safety concern. You can download our tip sheet HERE.