Certain industries need workers around the clock. Depending on the industry you work in, you could get asked to work the night shift. If you’re one of many people in Minnesota suffering from shift work sleep disorder, working all night could be deadly. Here’s more information about shift work sleep disorder and what makes it so dangerous.
What is shift work sleep disorder?
Shift work sleep disorder (SWSD) is a condition that affects 10-40% of the adult workforce. This disorder causes someone to find it hard to sleep after their sleep schedule changes. People with SWSD not only struggle to fall asleep but can also find it hard to stay asleep for long periods.
Considering that 20% of workers in the United States perform some kind of shift work, this means it’s likely that many people with SWSD are working night shifts.
The dangers of driving with this condition
People driving during the night with SWSD are at an extremely high risk of getting into car accidents. According to a group of professors from the University of Missouri, people with SWSD are 300% more likely to get into an accident than those without this disorder.
If you have this condition, it’s advisable to start utilizing non-driving methods of transportation, such as a taxi, ridesharing service, or something similar. Experts also recommend resting at your job site instead of driving directly home at the end of a shift if possible.
To summarize, people who work night shifts often suffer from shift work sleep disorder. This disorder can make it extremely dangerous to drive a vehicle. Avoid driving drowsy by getting adequate rest or having someone else drive you to or from work.