You’ve probably heard that insufficient sleep is linked to health issues such as obesity or diabetes — but did you know that poor sleep also increases the likelihood of suffering a personal injury at work?
A WebMD study reviewed data from 27 separate studies involving more than 268,000 working adults. By cross-referencing questionnaires and patient records, researchers found that:
- People with sleep difficulties were about 60% more likely to suffer a workplace injury than those who slept adequately.
- Workers with sleep apnea or who took sleep medications had the highest risk of injury.
- Interestingly, employees in labor-intensive jobs (such as construction or manufacturing) had a slightly lower rate of sleep-related injuries than the average workforce.
- Researchers estimated that roughly 13 out of every 100 workplace injuries could be linked to poor sleep.
They concluded that there is a strong connection between sleep disorders and increased workplace injury risk. The data did not include driving-related work injuries — a category that can be complex when determining eligibility for work comp benefits — and researchers noted that including them would likely raise the numbers even higher.
Workers’ Compensation and Sleep Disorders
People diagnosed with sleep apnea or another sleep disorder may qualify as disabled under the Minnesota Human Rights Act. Sleep is considered a major life activity, and chronic sleep impairment can significantly affect a person’s ability to work safely and effectively.
Under Minnesota law, workers with sleep disorders may be entitled to additional workplace protections and, in the event of an accident, certain workers’ compensation benefits. If you suspect that you have a sleep disorder, speak with your doctor and get a medical evaluation.
If you have questions about how a sleep disorder might affect your workers’ compensation claim, call or text the lawyers at 612-INJURED at (612) 465-8733 for a free consultation. We’ll review your case, answer your questions, and help you understand your rights.