A new study suggests that March 15, 2010, just might be the most dangerous day this year and the rest of that week could be close behind. Why? Everyone turns their clocks forward on March 14. And that one-hour loss of sleep makes a big difference in fatigue-related injuries.

The facts

• Researchers determined that on average, there were 3.6 more injuries on the Mondays following the switch to daylight saving time compared to other days.
• A total of 2,649 days of work were lost as a result of those injuries, about a 68 percent increase in lost work days.
• There were no significant changes in the number and severity of workplace injuries on the Mondays after the switch to standard time, when people gained an hour.

Use extra precautions

The researchers suggest that, when possible, companies avoid scheduling particularly dangerous work for the Monday after the switch to daylight saving time. Later that same week might be safer. Also, make sure workers are aware that the time change can put them at higher risk of injuries.

Early to bed

Of course, you can’t make workers go to bed earlier, even though that might be the best way to minimize the adjustment. For example, to get their bodies ready for the time change, four days before daylight saving time, workers can try going to bed and getting up 15 minutes earlier each day.

Then in the days following the time change, they can go to bed at their normal time, even if they don’t feel tired.

From the Safety Compliance Alert Web site.

This safety tip is provided by ARA Insurance Services, Kansas City, Mo., to help those in the rental industry better manage their risk. For more safety and risk management information, customers of ARA Insurance Services can log on to ReSource. Access is free, so if you haven’t signed up yet, contact your agent or call 800-821-6580.