Considering the current coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, organisations may be observing the stress amongst team members, leaders and peers. This may result in poor sleep that could be affecting health, wellbeing and ability to work in a safe and productive manner [1]. Given this, organisations should ensure they have systems in place to reduce this risk.
Effective management of fatigue within an organisation requires a systematic approach referred to as a Fatigue Risk Management System (FRMS) [2]. An FRMS should complement the broader Safety Management System and should define and guide an organisation to systematically evaluate, manage and mitigate fatigue-related risk [3, 4].
Melius Consulting has developed an online Fatigue Risk Diagnostic Tool to assist organisations to objectively assess their current state of fatigue risk. This online tool supports the implementation of evidence-based targeted strategies and the efficient allocation of resources. The tool consists of 12 essential elements that should be considered in the development of a systematic approach to managing fatigue-related risk.
Within each of these elements, there are a series of questions relating to controls for managing fatigue within an organisation. Key stakeholders within an organisation are asked to consider these questions based on the organisations’ current state. A final report identifying critical areas for improvement is generated and reviewed by our Chief Adviser (Dr Ian Dunican).
Melius Consulting has been successfully using this diagnostic tool in the oil and gas, mining, rail, aviation and agriculture sectors to assist organisations in developing and improving their fatigue risk management systems by identifying exposure to risk and opportunities for improvement. It has supported our clients in prioritising future strategies and interventions and developing a phased approach to implementation.
To support organisations to continue to manage the risk of fatigue during these uncertain times, Melius Consulting is offering this online Fatigue Risk Diagnostic Tool to organisations at no cost. In addition, we are offering a 25% reduction on all new projects until October 1st. If you are interested in assessing your organisational fatigue risk and would like to complete the Melius Consulting online Fatigue Risk Diagnostic Tool, please contact:
Gemma Maisey
Principal Consultant
Melius Consulting Pty Ltd
Gemma.maisey@meliusconsulting.com.au
Mobile: 0409 825 087
References
- Kalmbach, D.A., J.R. Anderson, and C.L. Drake, The impact of stress on sleep: Pathogenic sleep reactivity as a vulnerability to insomnia and circadian disorders. J Sleep Res, 2018. 27(6): p. e12710.
- Moore-Ede, M., Evolution of fatigue risk management systems: The “tipping point” of employee fatigue mitigation. 2009.
- Caldwell, J.A., et al., Fatigue and its management in the workplace. Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews, 2019. 96: p. 272-289.
- Lerman, S.E., et al., Fatigue risk management in the workplace. Journal of Occupational & Environmental Medicine, 2012. 54(2): p. 231-258.
