SafeWork NSW_Code of Practice_Managing the risk of Fatigue at Work

Fatigue is a state of physical, mental or emotional impairment. Fatigue can develop over the short or long term, can prevent people from functioning safely and can have health effects.

In a work context, fatigue is more than feeling sleepy, tired and drowsy. It is a state of impairment which can be:

• physical – impacting physical abilities like coordination and strength
• mental – impacting mental and cognitive abilities like decision making and concentration
• emotional – impacting abilities to engage emotionally or regulate emotions, or
• a combination of any of the above.

 This SafeWork NSW Code of Practice Managing the risk of fatigue at work outlines;

 Risk Management Process

• Identify Hazards
• Assess risk
• Control risk
• Maintain & review control measure
• Record Keeping

Updated February 2026