FAASTeam Maintenance Safety Tip
December 2011
Safety – Survival – Shivering – Yawning
So what do these things have in common?
Well, survivalists say that shivering is the first symptom you should look for if you suspect your buddy is falling victim to hypothermia. If that person doesn’t get to a warmer place soon, they are likely to be in danger soon.
Along that same thought process, researchers say that yawning is one of the first signs you can look for if you suspect your mechanic buddy is fatigued. If that person doesn’t get some rest soon, the likelihood that maintenance errors occurring increases dramatically.
If you saw that your buddy’s lips were blue, you’d get him to a warmer place - wouldn’t you? Why not do the same kind of favor for your yawning co-worker? If you see they’re fatigued, suggest they go get some badly needed rest (sleep).
As for you personally: If you’re shivering, get to a warmer place and if you’re yawning, get some quality sleep ASAP.
Another great safety tip is to check out the FAASafety.gov website. Be sure to enroll in the Fatigue Countermeasure Training. It is free and you are guaranteed to learn something.
It all has to do with safety and survival.
