This is a summary of Module 1 
of the North American Fatigue Management Program (NAFMP). It explains that fatigue is decreased alertness, attention, performance, motivation and judgment accompanied by drowsiness. The difference between acute and chronic fatigue. Sleepiness is felt in the mind, while fatigue may be experienced in the entire body leading to slow reaction and poor response time.
Truck companies wishing to combat fatigue should involve collaboration between drivers, drivers’ families, management, dispatchers, and customers. According to various government studies over the years, fatigue is the principal cause in 31% of fatal injuries when the truck driver is killed (NTSB, 1990) and is a factor in 13% of serious heavy vehicle crashes.
Serious health concerns are also linked to fatigue including blood pressure, heart disease, weight gain, diabetes and depression.
The module goes on to give an overview of later modules. To download Module 1, go to http://www.nafmp.org/en/downloads.html.
Michael Leizerman is a lawyer and truck safety advocate who has handled truck accident cases involving fatigue, false log books, distracted driving, road rage and other fatigue-related circumstances.
