Fatigue Management in the Workplace | WHS Training & Risk Control 2026

What is Fatigue?

Fatigue is not simply the feeling of being tired or drowsy. Instead, it refers to a condition where mental or physical performance becomes impaired.

This impairment can occur for several reasons, including a lack of quality restorative sleep, staying awake for extended periods, working during times when one would normally be sleeping, or undertaking demanding tasks. Such factors contribute to acute or ongoing tiredness, which can result in mental or physical exhaustion.

As a consequence, individuals may no longer be able to function within their usual boundaries.

When someone is fatigued, their alertness, judgment, and reaction time are negatively affected. This leads to greater risks in environments where safety is critical, putting both employees and employers at risk. It is important for both parties to take responsibility for managing the causes and effects of fatigue. Strategies include getting adequate rest, managing workload appropriately, and maintaining healthy habits.

Fatigue can result in reduced productivity and an increased likelihood of near misses, incidents, and injuries. These outcomes may occur even when the signs of fatigue are not immediately obvious, emphasising the importance of awareness and proactive management.

Fatigue: Key Signs and Symptoms
Fatigue can present itself in a variety of ways, affecting individuals both physically and mentally. Recognising these signs and symptoms is crucial in identifying fatigue early and managing its impact effectively, and these may include:

• Physical Signs – Some of the most common physical indicators of fatigue include constant yawning and heavy eyelids. In more severe cases, individuals may experience microsleeps, where they briefly fall asleep at work without realising it.
• Cognitive Symptoms – Fatigue can impair cognitive functioning, leading to difficulties in decision-making and noticeably slowed reaction times. Individuals may also experience short-term memory lapses and find it increasingly difficult to concentrate on tasks.
• Emotional Indicators – The emotional impact of fatigue often manifests as increased irritability and frequent mood swings. There may also be a reduced capacity or willingness to engage with others, which can affect personal and professional relationships.
• Behavioural Changes – Behavioural signs of fatigue include patterns such as repeatedly arriving late and an increase in unplanned absences. Productivity at work may also decline noticeably as a result of persistent tiredness.

Managing Fatigue in the Workplace

Managing fatigue is a shared responsibility between employers and workers. Both parties play crucial roles in ensuring a safe and healthy workplace by addressing and minimising fatigue-related risks, and employer responsibilities include:

• Employers are committed to maintaining a workplace that is free from risks associated with fatigue. It is essential to ensure that all workers are in a fit state to perform their duties safely and effectively.
• To reduce fatigue, employers will limit consecutive night shifts to a maximum of three. Additionally, there will be a minimum recovery period of 12 hours between all shifts. These rostering practices ensure that workers and contractors have sufficient rest before starting their next shift, promoting appropriate working time arrangements.
• Job rotation will be introduced to break up repetitive or monotonous tasks, helping to prevent mental and physical fatigue. Regular flexible breaks will also be provided to allow workers adequate time to rest and recover during their shifts. Working hours, including overtime, will be carefully monitored and controlled to avoid excessive periods of wakefulness and ensure reasonable time arrangements.
• Work areas will be maintained to be well-lit and comfortable, with attention given to temperature and noise levels. These environmental controls help create a conducive atmosphere that supports alertness and wellbeing.
• A formal fatigue policy will be implemented, along with a "no-blame" reporting system. This system encourages workers to raise any concerns about fatigue without fear of reprisal. The organisation will also promote a healthy lifestyle for all workers, both at work and at home, to further support overall wellbeing.
• Training and educational programs will be provided to workers and contractors. These programs aim to foster a shared understanding of fatigue management, equipping everyone with the knowledge and tools needed to effectively recognise and address fatigue-related risks in the workplace.

Workers General Safety Obligations

Workers are required to take reasonable care of their own safety and health in the workplace. In addition, you must ensure that your actions do not endanger the safety and health of others. This responsibility underpins a safe and healthy working environment for all.

Zenergy eLearning Fatigue Management Program

Zenergy has released the Fatigue Management eLearning Course, available on the Zenergy Online WHS Training Platform.

This course builds a foundational understanding of fatigue, recognising it as a significant risk to both physical and mental well-being. Learners will gain knowledge and practical strategies to:

• Understand fatigue as a risk
• Identify its signs and causes
• Implement effective management technique

Call Us Today!

Zenergy’s eLearning programs can transform your workforce and provide job-ready skills to help your business achieve its objectives. Choose from a range of courses including Workplace Health & Safety (WHS) and Chain of Responsibility (CoR) on the Zenergy Online Training Platform.

Find out more on the Zenergy Online Training Platform or contact us at 1300 333 400 or info@zenergygroup.com.au to discuss your training needs.