RESEARCH conducted by the University of Sydney has found fatigue to be the number one accident risk factor for construction workers.
According to the University of Sydney, the research also highlights fatigue within the industry needs to be better recognised by occupational health and safety managers.
University of Sydney’s Dr Margaret Chan conducted PhD research which focused on four high profile oil and gas Sino joint-venture construction projects in Mainland China. Dr Chan interviewed workers, managers and safety supervisors to establish perceived causes of workplace accidents. All three groups are said to have considered fatigue to be the most significant risk factor in workplace accidents at these sites.
Dr Chan says although her work was based in China, she believes the findings are equally applicable in Australia.
“It’s well known Australia has more stringent OH&S regulations than China but these do not address fatigue, particularly in construction,” Dr Chan said.
“Australian construction companies, based locally or overseas, need to place greater emphasis on the importance of recovery, a significant moderator of fatigue.
“Managers should ensure workers take regular breaks from work, and schedule shift rosters to allow the body to adapt to the circadian rhythm. They should also provide facilities allowing workers to recover from the fatigue and stress that comes with working in a high-risk environment.”
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