How does fatigue affect workplace safety?

Fatigue significantly impairs concentration, reaction time, and decision-making skills, which are critical components of workplace safety. When a worker is fatigued, their ability to focus on tasks diminishes, leading to mistakes and oversight. Reaction times slow down, making it difficult to respond quickly to hazards or unexpected events. Additionally, decision-making abilities can become compromised, resulting in poor judgment and increased likelihood of accidents or injuries.

Understanding the effects of fatigue is essential for maintaining a safe work environment. Ensuring that employees are well-rested and aware of their state can help mitigate risks associated with fatigue and enhance overall workplace safety. Other options do not reflect the reality of how fatigue impacts performance; in fact, increasing productivity and enhancing teamwork under fatigue is typically a misconception, as fatigue generally leads to lower efficiency and collaboration breakdowns.