Naptitude tests

Experts call for screening of sleep apnoea in workplaces

- MARTIN BAGOT

FALLING asleep on the job can be quite dangerous... especially if you're a bus driver or a pilot.

So a study has suggested that employers should start testing workers for obstructive sleep apnoea.

Trials of screening programmes could look at roles where sleepiness carries more risks, such as driving, say experts. OSA could be costing £4.2billion a year in productivity losses in the UK, where it affects eight million people.

The condition causes the throat to narrow and close while sleeping.

Sufferers may snore, make choking noises and wake up a lot, causing tiredness, moodiness and trouble concentrating.