Time change hazards

by Pamela Ahr

I am originally from Arizona. Arizona is one of only two states that don’t observe Daylight Saving Time (DST). When I moved to Oregon, DST was a new and interesting thing for me. At first, I just couldn’t believe how dark it was at 5:00 pm when DST ended in the fall. I quickly adapted to the ending of DST because it felt like an extra hour of sleep (I was a student at the time). But when DST began in the Spring, I felt extra tired for about a week. Now, as a safety professional, I’ve learned there are very real safety hazards associated with the twice-yearly time change.

When the time changes, your circadian rhythm gets messed up. The fatigue is real and it’s linked to a higher injury rate. For example, a 2020 study showed a 6% increase in fatal car crashes after the shift to daylight saving time.

Less sleep can lead to decreased focus and an increase in health risks. How can you manage the time change? Just recognizing the hazard and preparing for the time change can help. Slowly shifting your bedtimes before the time change and getting as much sun as you can will help to regulate your morning routine. If you know you’re extra tired, be careful getting behind the wheel.

Most people acclimate in a pretty short period of time. If you are prepared, you can get through the time change with few difficulties.