Ep 2: Preventing Guards From Falling Sleep

Your Security Business Podcast w/Rudo Robinson

Summary: In this episode of the Your Security Business podcast, the host delves into the critical issue of keeping security guards awake and alert during their shifts. The discussion covers the responsibility of security officers to ensure they are well-rested, the impact of sleep deprivation on job performance, strategies for promoting healthy sleep habits, the importance of creating effective sleep policies, and what to do if a guard falls asleep on duty.

Topics discussed:

Responsibility of Security Officers:

Security officers are responsible for ensuring they get enough rest to stay awake and perform their duties effectively.
Companies may need to assist employees in meeting company expectations regarding staying alert on the job.

Impact of Sleep Deprivation:

Statistics on sleep deprivation among Americans and the increased risk for night shift workers.
Circadian rhythms and their role in regulating the sleep-wake cycle and overall energy levels.

Strategies for Promoting Healthy Sleep Habits:

Educating guards about sleep health and hygiene practices.
Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, creating a calm sleep environment, avoiding stimulants before bedtime, and the impact of diet on sleep quality.
The importance of avoiding sugary, caffeine-based energy drinks and considering alternative options like 5-hour energy.
Taking naps before shifts and aligning work schedules with natural sleep patterns.

Creating Effective Sleep Policies:

Allowing guards to report feeling tired on duty without fear of repercussions.
Implementing strategies such as sending replacements, allowing power naps, or facilitating regular check-ins to prevent guards from falling asleep on duty.
Addressing repeated instances of tiredness on duty and potential consequences for officers.

Key takeaways:

Educating security guards about healthy sleep habits and the impact of sleep deprivation is crucial for maintaining alertness on the job.
Companies should consider the sleep needs of their employees when creating work schedules to optimize performance and prevent fatigue.
Implementing supportive sleep policies that allow guards to report tiredness can help prevent incidents of falling asleep on duty and mitigate risks to contracts and client satisfaction.

References:

CDC - Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
American Academy of Sleep Medicine
Sleep Foundation
Your Security Business podcast website: ⁠[Your Security Business Podcast]⁠