FATIGUE MANAGMENT
- Purpose
- The purpose of this program is to manage employee fatigue to prevent injury or illness related to human error caused by exhaustion.
- Requirements
- Employees shall be informed/trained on the requirements of this program.
- Supervisors are required to monitor workload, working hours and working conditions to adhere to this program. This will include monitoring direct report employees for fatigue and exhaustion.
- No employee’s work shift shall extend over 16 hours without prior management approval. This shall include transportation time, i.e. driving to and from the project location.
- The 16 hour rule applies to one shift and shall be followed by no less than two days of shifts less than or equal to 12 hours.
- Employees traveling back and forth daily for projects in excess of 90 minutes shall have optional company paid lodging offered to them by management if they are commuting more than 4 consecutive shifts.
- No employee shall be required to work more than 14 consecutive days without prior management approval.
- Employee’s workstations shall be ergonomically inspected (hazard assessment) for the use of the proper: lighting, anti-fatigue mats, assisted lifting devices, climate control and desk/computer station configuration.
- Supervision shall inspect the work practices and workstations of all individuals to confirm the proper fatigue management protocol is being followed.
- Employees are permitted to take rest breaks as needed if work is excessive (strenuous or in excessive heat). Employees are required to take a 15 minute rest break for every 4 hours of their shift, i.e. two per 8 hour shift and a minimum 30 minute dinner rest break is required per 8 hour shift.
- Employees shall immediately notify their supervision if fatigue or exhaustion are impeding their work ability or posing a safety hazard.
- Employees shall not consume substances (prescription/over-the-counter) or other products that impair their mental and physical alertness before or during work shift.