Fatigue

Fatigue, more than just tiredness, is a decline in mental and physical performance that increases the risk of incidents and mistakes on your farm. It can be caused by inadequate sleep, long working hours, and high workload, with extended hours during calving, lambing, and harvest time increasing the risk.

A 2024 study of Irish farmers (a sample of 351 farmers) found that nearly one quarter were experiencing burnout, and one half had poor sleep. Researchers added:

 “these high rates have serious implications for farmers’ health, as both burnt out farmers and farmers with poor sleep reported higher rates of physical and mental health issues.”

(O’Connor et.al, 2024).

Common signs of fatigue include loss of focus, slower reactions, and irritability, which can impair performance similar to alcohol intoxication.

Kevin McGarry of Strokestown, Roscommon, tells his story:

“ I was too tired and that’s why the accident happened…..not thinking straight…”

As a farm worker, ask yourself these 5 questions:

1. How alert am I?

An alert mind will see risks, help you to react quickly and make better decisions. Try to notice your own fatigue and talk about it with others. It will help you recognise when you need to change what you are doing e.g. stopping, slowing down, taking a break.

2. Am I getting good sleep?

Sleep is essential for thinking clearly and for our physical and emotional health. Recording sleep patterns and discussing sleep with others can inform small changes you could make to your sleep. Short naps of around 20 minutes may provide a temporary energy boost, but allow time to regain alertness before engaging in safety-critical work.

3. What time is it versus risk?

Be aware that your alertness tends to be lowest at the end of a working day or at night-time (between 2am and 6am). Allow yourself sufficient time to complete tasks safely. It may not be your preference to ‘take your time’ but, choosing to purposefully work slower at particular times of day/night can prove to be a safer temporary measure.

4. Can I get help with workload?

Investing in farm labour can be an investment in your own health and safety. Upfront costs may increase but this is an insurance against the financial impacts of incidents, serious injuries and fatalities.

5. How do I look after others on my farm?

Consider the working hours and demands placed on others working on your farm. Ensure good communication between you and other farm workers about health and safety is a priority. 

HSA guidance

‘Managing Fatigue with Farm Work’ has been designed to help you make informed choices in the management of farm work and fatigue to reduce safety and health risks.