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34 355-BQD-01-IAAP © 2024, Workplace Safety & Prevention Services (WSPS) | 1 877 494 WSPS (9777) | WSPS.CA Landscape Ontario – Workplace Safety Tailgate Talks FATIGUE AND REACTION TIME Personal Protective Equipment Equipment Hazards How much sleep do people need on average to be alert, safe and produc�vely effec�ve? Fa�gue can be due to physical work and can cause muscle �ghtness and cramping. The combina�on of loss of muscular output and control, decreased aten�on, diminished reac�on �mes, and loss of sensi�vity, can result in higher tendency of injuries and incidents. Prevention Points Outdoor workers often work long hours. Strenuous and physical work can push the body to the point of fatigue. Fatigue may affect the brain, long before you even recognize it as physical exhaustion, and can impact your concentration levels, reaction time and productivity. To avoid an injury due to fatigue, consider: Review the General Health & Safety Best Practices section on page 7 before performing any task. Taking regular rest breaks – and if possible, take extra breaks when needed, typically late morning and late afternoon. Avoid repeated tasks for long periods of time, rotate tasks during the shift. Be familiar with the potential hazards of the task and how you would react to various emergencies before starting. If you or a co-worker are feeling fatigued, inform the supervisor immediately. Avoid using machinery, driving or power tools if you are feeling fatigued. Ensure to get an average of 7-8 hours of undisturbed sleep every day, there is no replacement for sleep. ! ?