Tired at work: accident risk almost twice as high
Sleep problems are widespread: One in three people sleep poorly and one in ten suffers from a chronic sleep disorder (insomnia). The consequences can also be seen in the workplace.
Tiredness is a safety risk
Lack of sleep reduces the ability to react and concentrate. Motor skills are also impaired: Overtired people are more likely to stumble, drop objects or underestimate dangers. According to international studies, people with chronic insomnia even have a two to two-and-a-half times higher risk of work errors and accidents.
«Lack of sleep is serious for safety in the workplace,» says Inglina Keller, prevention advisor and health specialist at Suva. Short lapses in attention can have serious consequences, especially in professions with increased risk potential. Fatigued employees are almost twice as likely to have an accident - in road traffic, the risk is even seven to eight times higher.
Less sleep, more absences
Anyone who sleeps less than six hours a night loses an average of around seven working days a year due to illness or reduced performance. Even with six to seven hours of sleep, this is still around 3.7 days more compared to well-rested employees. Sleep problems are also often a long-term phenomenon: around half of those affected continue to suffer from persistent complaints even after several years.
Chronic sleep deprivation also increases the risk of mental illness and cardiovascular diseases such as high blood pressure and strokes.
The economic consequences are considerable: in Europe, chronic sleep disorders cost billions of euros every year - mainly through lost productivity, absenteeism and increased healthcare expenditure.
Sleep is therefore not just a private issue, but also a factor for success at work: well-rested employees are more focused, make better decisions and are less likely to be absent due to illness.
How companies strengthen sleep health
- Clearly regulate availability and limit overtime
- Sensitize managers
- Enable flexible working hours where feasible
- Encourage breaks and short power naps (15-20 minutes)
- Offer training on stress management and sleep hygiene
Important for restful sleep
- Maintain regular sleeping and rising times
- Switch off electronic devices at least one hour before going to bed
- Keep the bedroom quiet, dark and cool (16-18 degrees)
- Avoid caffeine four to six hours before sleep
- If lying awake for a long time, get up and carry out a quiet activity
Source: Suva
