Prepare for Daylight Saving Time

When employees return to their worksites Monday morning, one hour earlier than the week before because of the switch to daylight saving time, many will be sleepy and unfocused. In a best-case scenario, these tired workers will simply have a less productive day than normal. In a worst-case scenario, their fatigue will result in an injury or accident.

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine has found evidence that the abrupt switch from standard time to daylight saving time results in safety and health risks, such as an increased risk of heart attacks, strokes, and hospital admissions. A study found the risk of fatal traffic accidents increases by 6% during the transition from standard time to daylight saving time.

CNN reports that people can prepare their circadian rhythm for the time switch by following these simple techniques:

• About one week in advance of the time switch, go to bed and wake up 10 minutes earlier each night and morning.
• Three days in advance, go to bed and wake up 20 minutes earlier
• The night before the time switch, go to bed half an hour early and sleep in half an hour later, or go to bed an hour early.
• Eat at regular times every day to keep your internal clock on schedule
• Turn off your electronics at least a half hour before bedtime, as the blue light from screens can trigger a state of alertness.