Driver Fatigue

Driver fatigue is a foreseeable risk for all drivers. For drivers of commercial vehicles it is a workplace hazard which, under Workplace Safety and Health laws, must be managed by a safe system of work.

Fatigue means a gradual loss of alertness which leads to occasional nodding off and then sleep. Fatigue causes drowsy driving. Drowsy drivers are more likely to have a crash by running off the road or having a head-on collision.

The three main causes of drowsy driving are too little sleep, driving when you would normally be asleep and working or being awake for very long hours. Other factors like highway boredom, road conditions and weather compound these major causes.
Legislation requires that work and rest times be counted to ensure that drivers are not at risk of fatigue. Employers and drivers need to understand these rules and ensure they adhere to them.

Driver fatigue is one of the most significant safety hazards facing the road transport industry world wide. Bus and truck crashes are dangerous and costly to all road users, and fatigue is a major contributor.