Every year on the second Sunday in March, we adjust our clocks to Daylight Savings Time, this year commencing on Sunday, March 10. As the clocks spring forward, we find ourselves "losing" an hour. The shift in time can induce feelings of anxiety, stress, and/or fatigue, all of which can impact our safety and that of others, whether at home, work, or on the road. It's important to be patient with yourself and allow sufficient time to adapt. Some safety tips include:

Workplace Safety Tips

• Dedicate additional time to thoroughly assess each work task. 
• Be more cautious when operating heavy equipment, machinery, or power tools if you are feeling drowsy, as fatigue diminishes reaction time. 
• Recognize that individuals may adapt differently to the time change. If you notice a coworker displaying signs of fatigue, stress, or anxiety, encourage them to pause their task and take a break. 
• Workplace injuries increase when workers' reaction time and awareness are decreased from being fatigued. 

Driving Safety Tips

• The morning hours may be darker on your commute to work, pay close attention to other vehicles and pedestrians on the road. 
• Allow yourself additional time for your morning commute to avoid the need for speeding; to avoid being late try things like preparing breakfast/lunch the night before, lay out your clothes the night before, and set your alarm extra early to give yourself plenty of time to adjust in the morning. 
• Refrain from multitasking while driving such as using your cell phone, eating breakfast, applying makeup, or other tasks. 
• Be more cautious while driving if you feel fatigue as it impairs your reaction time. 

Sleeping/Schedule Tips

• Start by going to bed 10-15 minutes earlier each night in the days leading up to the time change. 
• On the evening of the time change, move your clocks forward by one hour and maintain your usual bedtime. 
• If you have the flexibility, utilize Sunday to acclimate your daily routine to the new schedule. 
• Prioritize both physical and mental preparation before the time change to alleviate stress and fatigue. 

These tips have been provided by our HSEQ team. Please feel free to visit the HSEQ Element for additional safety information.