Each fall, when clocks fall back for daylight saving time, schedules shift and so do our bodies. The change can cause fatigue, decreased alertness, and an increased risk of accidents, especially in the first few weeks. Even a one-hour change can disrupt your sleep, reaction time, and focus at work or while driving.
How Does the Time Change Affect You?
Losing an hour ripples into your alertness and safety.
- Sleep disruption, since the change causes sleep loss and affects your body’s internal clock, leaving you drowsy, sluggish, or less focused during your shift
- An increased risk of incidents, since accidents rise immediately after the time change, and shorter daylight hours reduce visibility, especially for drivers and outdoor workers
What Are the Signs of Fatigue?
Catch fatigue before it causes a mistake.
- Yawning or heavy eyelids
- Slower reaction times
- Difficulty focusing
- Forgetfulness or zoning out
- Irritability or low motivation
What Are Safe Work Practices Around the Time Change?
Protect your sleep and your alertness.
- Get 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night, especially the week before and after
- Avoid caffeine or heavy meals right before bed
- Keep a consistent sleep schedule by going to bed and waking at the same time daily
- Take short breaks during long tasks to stay alert
- If you feel drowsy while driving, pull over safely and rest
How Do You Stay Visible and Safe?
Shorter daylight means visibility matters more.
- Check that all vehicle and equipment lights are working
- Wear high-visibility clothing if working outdoors or near traffic
- Be extra cautious during early morning and evening hours when visibility is lower
- Replace the batteries in your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors
- Change all clocks to the proper time
