JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-RANDOLPH, Texas -- The holiday season, a time for rest and celebration, often disrupts normal routines, making the return to work a jolt for anyone. This transition proves especially challenging for nightshift workers, whose health and safety can be significantly impacted.
While most people find it tough to get back into a work groove, nightshift employees face a unique struggle. During the holidays, they often switch to a daytime schedule to spend time with family and friends, which throws off their internal clock, or circadian rhythm. This disruption mimics severe jet lag and makes returning to a nocturnal schedule difficult. Consequently, the risk of workplace accidents from fatigue, which studies show is already higher for nightshift workers, rises.
Here are some tips to help members safely navigate that transition:
Ease Back into Your Work Routine: Don’t expect peak productivity the first week back. Instead, take time to get organized by planning your week and easing back into tasks. Reconnecting with colleagues about the holidays also can help you get back into the social rhythm of the workplace.
Prioritize Sleep and Gradual Adjustment: A few days before returning, start adjusting your sleep schedule back to your work routine. Manage light exposure by getting evening sun and wearing sunglasses after a nightshift to help reset your internal clock. Ensure your bedroom is dark and quiet, and consider a short, 20- to 30-minute nap before your shift to improve alertness.
Focus on Health and Wellness: After holiday indulgences, boost your energy by getting back to a healthy diet and staying well-hydrated.
Stay Alert and Work Safely: Be self-aware and recognize the signs of fatigue, such as yawning or difficulty concentrating. Take short breaks to stretch and move around. Most importantly, avoid the pressure to rush, as this increases the risk of accidents. Take your time to do your job safely.
A New Year, a Safe Start: Returning to work after the holidays is a process. Be patient with yourself and your body as you get back into your routine. For our dedicated nightshift workers, who keep our world running 24/7, taking extra care to manage your sleep and stay safe becomes crucial. By following these tips, you can ensure a smooth, safe and productive start to the new year.