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Texas EMS agency adds ‘Safe Sleep Rooms’ to combat fatigue

Separate from bunk rooms, the rooms have blackout shades, disabled tones, a fan and bedding to allow for proper sleep

By EMS1 Staff

AUSTIN-TRAVIS COUNTY, Texas — In an effort to combat workplace fatigue and increase resilience, Texas EMS providers are implementing a “Safe Sleep Room.”

Austin-Travis County EMS said the rooms are dedicated to providing EMS personnel with uninterrupted rest after a shift. Separate from bunk rooms, the rooms have blackout shades, disabled tones, a fan and bedding to allow for proper sleep. A sign on the door also informs colleagues on whether a room is available for use.

Safe sleep rooms have been added to five different stations.

Long shifts with inadequate sleep often makes driving a risk to responders and others on the road. A recent study stated that prolonged wakefulness is comparable to drunk driving.

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