There were an average of 59.1 fatigue events per day and over 1663 fatigue events per month across a total distance of 408,170,343km recorded between 30 November 2023 and 29 November 2024, according to New Zealand fleet safety and training provider AutoSense.

The data was from almost 6000 Guardian by Seeing Machine cameras installed in commercial vehicles in New Zealand.

It is widely recognised that driver fatigue is one of the biggest challenges in the transport sector.

AutoSense fatigue and sleep health consultant Katrina Aubrey said these figures underscore the need for effective fatigue management strategies and she’s urging New Zealand fleets to harness all the tools available to stay alert on the roads.

“Fatigue can result from myriad factors including lack of sleep, long work hours, stress and monotonous tasks, and it can have a huge impact, impairing cognitive function, reaction time, decision-making abilities and overall performance,” Aubrey said.

She said New Zealand’s transport sector is waking up to the risks. Since joining AutoSense in August 2024, the fatigue and sleep expert has visited transport companies around New Zealand and facilitated 18 workshops sharing her expert knowledge and insights on managing fatigue.

“We help drivers to identify the signs and causes of their fatigue, explore why it’s important to have seven-plus hours of quality sleep, and we discuss practical strategies for improving sleep hygiene, exercise, and nutrition. Astoundingly, of the 38 drivers who self-referred themselves for a sleep apnea test, approximately 30 have gone on to use a CPAP machine which uses mild air pressure to keep their breathing airways open while they sleep,” Aubrey said

“They tell me they feel like new people, refreshed and revived and able to do their job without yawning or any fatigue. The results speak for themselves.”

Employing fatigue countermeasures can reduce or mitigate the effects of fatigue, both at a company-wide level and individually. Implementing a fatigue management system is a great place to start for transport businesses.

“Implement policies and procedures that identify, assess and reduce fatigue-related risks, such as scheduling practices, workload management and staffing levels. Education and training are also key. We need to make drivers more aware of the importance of sleep, teach them to recognise signs of fatigue, and encourage them to be more proactive.”

Aubrey said truck drivers need at least seven or eight hours of sleep daily for safe performance, but if that’s not doable, there are other options.

“If a full night’s rest isn’t possible, consider splitting it into a five or six-hour sleep after a shift, followed by a one or two-hour nap before the next shift. This can still help improve alertness and overall performance.”

Aubrey said power napping is another secret weapon – but limit naps to 30 minutes tops, and avoid napping late in the day, as it can impact your ability to fall asleep at night.

“Getting enough shut-eye is vital not just when you are on the road but for overall health and wellbeing.”