It’s no secret that fatigue is a common issue in the workplace. Unfortunately, fatigue can lead to decreased productivity, mistakes and even accidents. The question is: What causes fatigue in the workplace?

Overexertion

In many work environments, employees have to engage in a lot of physical activity. For instance, in construction, manufacturing or health care settings, employees are often on their feet and performing tasks that require a lot of energy. In these types of environments, it’s not uncommon for workers to experience fatigue from overexertion.

In addition to physical activity, mental activity can also lead to fatigue. For example, if you work in an office setting and you’re constantly multitasking or working under pressure, you may experience fatigue from mental exertion.

Poor work/life balance

Maintaining a good work/life balance is important. However, many people find it difficult to achieve this goal. When you’re constantly working and you don’t have enough time for yourself, it can lead to fatigue.

In addition to having too much work, another factor that can contribute to poor work/life balance is working long hours. If you’re required to work late nights or weekends, it can be hard to maintain a good balance. Failing to take enough time off to relax and rejuvenate can also lead to fatigue.

Lack of sleep

Most people need between seven and eight hours of sleep each night. Having enough sleep helps the body to recover from the day’s activities and prepare for the next day. If you’re not getting enough sleep, it’s going to be hard for you to stay alert and focused during the day, potentially leading to accidents and workers’ compensation claims.

How can you combat fatigue in the workplace?

Firstly, take regular breaks throughout the day. Get up and move around, or take a few minutes to relax and rejuvenate. Secondly, maintain a good work/life balance as much as possible. Take time for yourself and do things that you enjoy outside of work. Finally, make sure you’re getting enough sleep. To help you get a good night’s sleep, try to relax before bed and avoid using electronic devices in the hour leading up to sleep.

It’s important to be aware of the causes of workplace fatigue so that you can take steps to prevent it. If you’re experiencing fatigue, don’t be afraid to speak up and let your supervisor know.