Fatigue management

Fatigue management (in shift work): Strategies to minimize worker tiredness in scheduling.

Fatigue management

The methods and strategies designed to minimize worker tiredness during scheduling. They focus on creating schedules that allow for adequate rest periods, reduces long consecutive work hours, and incorporates input from workers about their availability and preferences.

What is fatigue management

Fatigue management is all about recognizing and mitigating the tiredness that can affect workers’ performance and safety. It involves thoughtful shift design that respects natural circadian rhythms and acknowledges the importance of recovery time after shifts.

For instance, scheduling employees for rotating shifts at least every four to six weeks can help them adapt better to changes, rather than pulling them between early and late shifts in short bursts. This is different from a static schedule that doesn’t take into account the fatigue levels of workers and results in decreased productivity, accidents, and employee dissatisfaction.

Giving employees a voice in their own schedules allows them to manage their fatigue more effectively. They know best when they’re at their peak performance, whether it’s early in the morning or after their coffee break.

Implementing mandatory breaks can also make a bright difference—giving staff time to recharge during a long shift not only improves morale but also reduces the risks associated with fatigue-related mistakes.

Effective fatigue management is an ongoing process that requires consistent evaluation and adaptation of the scheduling strategy. Regular feedback from employees is crucial, as it helps refine the balance between operational needs and employee wellbeing.

Best practices

• Listen to your employees when they express their preferred work times. Create a schedule that accommodates these preferences as much as possible.
• Ensure your staff has sufficient rest between shifts. Avoid scheduling back-to-back shifts, particularly overnight ones, to give employees the chance to recover.
• Involve your team in the shift planning process. Use tools that allow them to suggest their desired hours and days off to improve overall engagement and reduce burnout.

Common pitfalls

• Don’t assume everyone can work the same hours without a hitch; one-size-fits-all doesn’t cut it here.
• Be wary of ignoring the importance of breaks. Skipping breaks can lead to soaring fatigue levels.
• Avoid piling on mandatory overtime, unless absolutely necessary. This will not only lead to disgruntled employees but can severely affect their productivity and the overall work atmosphere.

How we can help

Self-scheduling software can significantly improve fatigue management for shift-based employees by allowing them to have more control over their work hours. By giving employees the ability to balance their work and rest periods more effectively, self-scheduling can lead to better sleep patterns and overall well-being.

Zelos Team Management is a simple shift signup software that can easily help your team self-schedule their shifts. Sign up for a free account today and take it for a spin to see if it’s a match for your needs.

Shift work glossary