top of page
< Back

Shift Work and Fatigue

How can shift work and fatigue affect mental health?

Fatigue is more than feeling tired. It is a state of mental and physical exhaustion that builds up when you don't get enough good-quality sleep and rest. Construction often involves early starts, long commutes, night work, weekend shifts and working away from home, all of which can disrupt the body's natural sleep rhythm.

Ongoing fatigue affects mood, patience, decision-making and reaction times. It increases the risk of accidents on site and on the road, and it is closely linked to stress, anxiety and depression.

What are the signs of fatigue?

1. Physical signs:

  • Feeling tired all the time, even after sleep.
  • Yawning, heavy eyes and microsleeps.
  • Headaches and aches.
  • Getting ill more often.

2. Mental signs:

  • Poor concentration and memory.
  • Slower reactions.
  • Making more mistakes.
  • Difficulty making decisions.

3. Emotional signs:

  • Irritability and a short fuse.
  • Low mood or anxiety.
  • Losing motivation.

4. Warning signs on the road:

  • Drifting between lanes, missing turnings, or not remembering the last few miles. Pull over somewhere safe and rest.

What are the statistics for fatigue in the UK?

Accidents: The HSE estimates that fatigue contributes to a significant proportion of workplace accidents, and it is a known factor in serious incidents.

Driving: Road safety charities estimate that driver fatigue may be a factor in up to around 1 in 5 accidents on major roads.

Sleep: Surveys regularly find that many UK adults do not get the seven to nine hours of sleep recommended for good health.

The law: The Working Time Regulations set limits on working hours and rights to rest breaks.

Where to get help with fatigue UK?

Always call 999 if you are in need of urgent help.

HSE guidance on fatigue and shift work:
Website: https://www.hse.gov.uk/humanfactors/topics/fatigue.htm

The Sleep Charity: Advice on better sleep.
Website: https://thesleepcharity.org.uk/

Your GP: If you're tired all the time, see your GP to rule out physical causes such as sleep apnoea, anaemia or thyroid problems.

Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity:
Helpline: 0345 605 1956 (24/7)

Mind:
Infoline: 0300 123 3393

A tired worker is an unsafe worker. Speak up if hours or travel are wearing you down.

Work and physical health

bottom of page