Fatigue Management: Supporting Workers with Family Issues on Night Shifts

When a worker is dealing with personal family issues but still wants to return to work on a regular roster that includes night shift, it’s essential to provide practical, emotional, and workplace support while ensuring their safety and wellbeing. Personal stress combined with night shifts can increase fatigue, emotional strain, and the risk of errors or accidents. Below are steps to support the worker effectively.

1. Open Communication & Confidentiality

✔ Private Discussion – Have a one-on-one conversation with the worker in a private, supportive setting.

✔ Listen Without Judgement – Allow them to share as much as they are comfortable with.

✔ Maintain Confidentiality – Ensure their situation remains private unless they consent to sharing with relevant stakeholders (e.g., HR or supervisors).

✔ Regular Check-Ins – Offer ongoing support and keep communication open.

Example conversation starter:"I understand you’re going through a challenging time. I appreciate your commitment to work, and I want to ensure we support you as best as possible. How are you feeling about balancing work and home life at the moment?"

2. Assess Fatigue Management and Mental Wellbeing Risks

Working regular night shifts while managing personal stress can lead to fatigue, burnout, and decreased cognitive function.

✔ Encourage Self-Assessment – Ask if they feel physically and mentally prepared to work night shifts.

✔ Look for Signs of Fatigue – Difficulty concentrating, irritability, mood changes, or excessive drowsiness.

✔ Offer EAP (Employee Assistance Program) – If available, encourage them to access confidential counselling.

✔ Encourage Breaks and Rest – Suggest short breaks or power naps if fatigue is an issue.

Action: If there are serious concerns about their ability to work safely, consider recommending alternative arrangements (see next section).

3. Offer Flexible Work Arrangements

Depending on their situation, offering flexibility can help them manage stress without compromising their safety.

Flexible Option	How It Helps	Considerations
Temporary Roster Change	Move to a day shift or shorter shifts for a period.	May depend on operational needs and workforce availability.
Reduced Hours	Allow part-time or fewer shifts if their stress levels are high.	Check if this suits their financial situation.
Job Modification	Assign less demanding tasks (if applicable) to reduce stress.	Ensure this aligns with their skill set and job requirements.
Leave Options	If needed, discuss personal leave, compassionate leave, or annual leave.	Ensure the worker consents before suggesting leave.

✔ Ask for Their Preference – Some workers may want to keep the night shift to maintain routine or financial stability.

Example:"Would a temporary change to your roster help while you navigate your family situation? If you’d prefer to stay on nights, is there anything we can do to make the workload more manageable?"

4. Monitor Performance and Safety

Once they return to work:

✔ Observe Behaviour – Look for signs of stress, exhaustion, or emotional distress.

✔ Encourage Peer Support – Assign a trusted colleague or mentor to check in with them.

✔ Ensure Rest Breaks Are Taken – Stress can cause workers to push themselves too hard.

✔ Encourage Reporting of Fatigue or Mental Struggles – Let them know they can come forward if needed.

If their personal stress severely impacts their work performance or safety, a formal risk assessment may be needed.

5. Promote Long-Term Wellbeing

✔ Encourage Healthy Sleep Practices – Provide fatigue management training to help them adapt to night shifts while handling stress.

✔ Suggest Support Networks – Direct them to professional help, workplace wellbeing programs, or community resources.

✔ Keep Checking In – A one-time conversation isn’t enough. Follow up periodically to see if their situation has changed.

Example:"I just wanted to check in and see how you’re feeling. Do you feel supported at work, or is there anything else we can do to help?"

Final Thoughts

Supporting a worker dealing with personal family issues while continuing on night shift requires a balance between empathy and workplace safety. By offering open communication, flexibility, and monitoring their wellbeing, you can help them navigate this difficult time without compromising their health or job performance.