Daylight Saving Time (DST) begins on 29th March 2026, bringing lighter evenings but also the loss of one hour of sleep. Experts warn that this change can temporarily disrupt our circadian rhythm, impacting health and increasing the risk of workplace accidents.
Workplace safety specialists at Protecting.co.uk are urging employers to take precautions and have collaborated with Dr Katie Barge, a Chartered Psychologist, to explain the psychological effects of sleep disruption.
How the clock change affects sleep and health
When clocks move forward each March, most people lose an hour of sleep, creating a short-term mismatch between the body’s internal clock and the working day. Sleep disruption can affect
- Concentration and attention
- Information processing and decision-making
- Mood regulation
- Overall health
Research has shown measurable short-term impacts
- Workplace injuries increase by 5.7% on the Monday after the spring clock change, with accidents often more severe.
- In the US, hospital admissions for heart attacks rise by 24% the Monday after clocks move forward.
- Stroke risk increases in the weeks following DST.
- Mood disorders, including depression and anxiety, can worsen, as can substance use.
- Fatal road accidents in the US rise by approximately 6% after the spring clock change.
Disrupted sleep is associated with slower reaction times, reduced focus, poor decision-making, and a higher likelihood of errors. Consistent, quality sleep is essential for brain functions such as focus and emotional regulation.
Workers most at risk
Some roles are more exposed to risk during the initial days following the clock change, including
- Shift workers and night staff
- Drivers and logistics personnel
- Construction and manual labour roles
- Jobs involving machinery or safety-critical decisions
In these roles, reduced alertness and slower reactions can increase the likelihood of mistakes.
Employer guidance
Most people adjust within a few days, but the period immediately after DST is when disruption is most noticeable. Employers should consider the following measures
- Avoid scheduling high-risk tasks early in the week
- Encourage regular breaks to manage fatigue
- Reinforce safety checks and procedures
- Raise awareness about the effects of sleep disruption
Expert insight
Dr Katie Barge explains: “Even small shifts in sleep and circadian rhythm can have a measurable impact on cognitive functioning. When the clocks change, the body’s internal clock becomes temporarily misaligned with external demands, leading to reduced alertness, slower reaction times, and decreased accuracy in attention and decision-making.
These effects are most pronounced in the first few days, with most people readjusting within 3–7 days. Individuals in safety-critical roles such as shift workers, drivers, and those in manual or operational environments may be more vulnerable, as even mild fatigue can increase the likelihood of mistakes or accidents.
Organisations can help by offering flexible scheduling, clear communication, and promoting good sleep hygiene.”
Preparing for British Summer Time
The spring transition to British Summer Time on 29th March 2026 occurs at 1am, advancing clocks by one hour. While the extended evening daylight is welcomed, the temporary disruption to circadian rhythms has measurable short-term impacts on safety and health. Experts emphasise that proactive steps by employers, combined with awareness of fatigue signs, can reduce incidents linked to sleep loss.