Did You Sleep Last Night?

You’ll work on hundreds of aircraft throughout your career and seeing one of them in the news strikes panic. A checklist starts running through your brain, "Did I torque that bolt, did I get all my tools out, did I do that safety right?"  But how do you make sure you aren't the cause? What you, and what most mechanics probably don't consider is the amount of sleep you got the night before.

Work can be exhausting, and making extra “you” time at the end of the day can lead to staying up late. But what you might not realize is that making up for your own time by going to bed later can have costly effects the next morning.

Studies show that 13% of all workplace accidents occur because of fatigue. This happens so much that the NTSB has written several memoirs describing how important enough sleep is throughout the week. 

Here are the key takeaways:

• 13% of all accidents are tied to fatigue 

• Fatigue is a major FAA concern 

• Maintenance personnel are especially at risk of fatigue

Simple Steps to Stay Alert 

1. Aim for 8 Hours: Try to get a full night's sleep.

2. Consistent Bedtime: Go to bed at the same time each night, even on weekends.

3. Limit Screens Before Bed: Avoid phones and computers at least 20 minutes before sleeping.

Stay Safe, Stay Rested 

As an A&P mechanic, you ensure aircraft safety. By prioritizing sleep, you reduce the risk of errors and make aviation safer. Never be the cause of a crash. Become a better mechanic and improve your confidence with good sleep so you never have to fall asleep under the rudder pedals again.

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