Exploring the Relationship between Chronic Sleep Deprivation and Safety on Construction Sites

Evidence suggests that sleep deprivation negatively affects behavior, wellbeing, and work performance. Although several researchers debated the relationships between sleep deprivation and work performance, research that clearly determines the relationship between construction workers' sleep deprivation and safety performance has yet to be performed. To contribute to the analysis of this relationship, the researchers designed and administered a survey at three construction sites in Seattle, WA. The survey collected information about workers' schedule, sleeping habits, and issues. The study concluded that most of the workers slept between five and six hours before a working day and, therefore, could become the candidates to experience sleep deprivation related issues. Further, respondents were asked to rank the effect of sleep deprivation on the occurrence of 10 types of near misses. Three types of near misses relating to the operation of forklifts, scissor lifts, trucks, or carts; the lack or improper use of personal protective equipment; and the use of ladders were recognized as most likely to occur because of sleep deprivation. Thus, this study warrants that sleep deprivation might cause safety concerns for particular construction activities and that trade-specific investigation is necessary to understand clearly the relationship between sleep deprivation and safety.