Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA) is a sleep disorder characterised by recurrent interruptions in breathing during sleep. These pauses, known as apnoeas, can last from a few seconds to minutes and may occur numerous times throughout the night. OSA is often accompanied by loud snoring, choking, or gasping as the sleeper's body struggles to overcome airway obstruction.
In the workplace, OSA might seem inconspicuous, but its consequences can be profound:
Individuals with OSA often experience daytime drowsiness, difficulty concentrating, and reduced alertness. In professions that require vigilance and rapid decision-making, such as transportation or manufacturing, these symptoms can lead to accidents and reduced productivity.
OSA-related fatigue has been linked to a higher risk of workplace accidents. Fatigue impairs reaction time and impairs judgment, making employees with OSA more susceptible to errors and accidents.
OSA can lead to frequent, unexplained absences as employees may struggle with health issues such as chronic fatigue, headaches, and mood disturbances. This disrupts work schedules and places additional stress on co-workers.
Left untreated, OSA is associated with a range of health issues, including hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes. These health conditions can increase absenteeism and healthcare costs for both employees and employers.
Awareness is the first step towards mitigating the dangers of OSA in the workplace. Employers and colleagues can look for common signs that may indicate OSA in their peers or employees:
While occasional snoring is common, loud and regular snoring might be a sign of OSA.
Frequent nodding off at work, especially during monotonous tasks, can be a strong indicator of OSA.
OSA sufferers often wake up with headaches, which can affect their cognitive function at work.
OSA can lead to irritability and mood disturbances, impacting workplace relationships.
Colleagues or family members might witness the person stop breathing briefly during sleep.
OSA is more prevalent in individuals with excess weight, so obesity may increase the risk.
Hypertension can be both a symptom and a consequence of OSA.
At Persona Health, we're committed to ensuring that your workplace remains a safe and productive environment. Our expertise in Occupational Health uniquely positions us to assist in OSA identification and management. Here's how we can be your partner in OSA solutions:
1. Comprehensive OSA Screening
We offer comprehensive OSA screening services, including questionnaires, consultations, and in-laboratory or home sleep studies, tailored to the specific needs of your workforce.
2. Expert Guidance
Our experienced medical professionals are skilled in identifying OSA and can guide employees towards effective treatments, which may include lifestyle changes, continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy, or surgical interventions.
3. Education and Awareness
We provide educational programs to increase awareness about OSA and its consequences in the workplace. By fostering a culture of health and well-being, we aim to reduce the stigma surrounding OSA.
4. Monitoring and Follow-up
We offer ongoing support for employees diagnosed with OSA, ensuring they adhere to treatment plans and experience improvements in their overall health and workplace performance.
5. Enhanced Productivity
Through early identification and appropriate management, we can help reduce absenteeism, decrease the risk of accidents, and improve the overall productivity and well-being of your workforce.
Obstructive Sleep Apnoea may often remain hidden, but its potential for harm is undeniable. Persona Health is your partner in unmasking this peril, ensuring that your employees remain vigilant, productive, and healthy.
Reach out to us today and let's work together to create a safer, more productive work environment. Your workforce's well-being is our priority.
At Persona Health, we believe that a healthy workforce is a productive workforce, and we are passionate about reducing your LTIs and getting your employees healed faster and back to work sooner.
U 17, 423 Church Street
Parramatta NSW 2150
21 Harcourt Parade
Rosebery NSW 2018
Suite 2107 31 Lasso Road (The HUB),
Gregory Hills NSW 2557
02 8000 1980
info@personahealth.com.au
Monday-Friday 8am-5pm