Fatigue is your enemy at this time of year.
“Too many farmers push themselves, especially during the really busy times,” said Kenda Lubeck, farm safety co-ordinator for Alberta Agriculture and Forestry.
Fatigue often creeps up on a person. In addition to feeling sleepy and tired, some common symptoms of fatigue include:
- Headaches, dizziness, and blurry vision;
- Slow reflexes and reactions, and poor concentration;
- Feeling irritable, moody, and short tempered;
- Muscles that are weak or ache.
“We often see safety as being all about equipment and guards, but the most important safety tool a person can have is their attitude which ultimately affects their personal safety decisions,” said Lubeck.
In addition to getting adequate sleep and eating properly, you can ward off fatigue by:
- Staying hydrated;
- Periodically stretching and going for short walks;
- Having enough workers for the job;
- Not making critical decisions when weary.
