Workplace stress can have consequences beyond employee well-being, affecting productivity, performance, and retention. And as Fleet Maintenance has reported in-depth in the past, stress and commercial vehicle repair often go hand-in-hand.

In a recent article for FleetOwner, Jane Clark, SVP of operations for NationaLease, examined how prolonged workplace stress can lead to burnout, as well as what employers can do to better support their teams.

Long hours can contribute to burnout

Clark distinguishes between normal stress, anxiety, and burnout. While temporary stress can subside when a challenge ends, burnout develops from prolonged, unmanaged stress and can result in exhaustion, disengagement, and reduced effectiveness.

For maintenance leaders, that distinction matters. Shops operate under pressure to complete repairs, minimize downtime, and manage workloads. Clark cites research showing productivity can decline significantly after a 50- to 55-hour work week, while fatigue and sleep deprivation can affect concentration, decision-making, and problem-solving.

Management can help reduce workplace stress

Clark recommends regular breaks, vacations, flexible scheduling, and clear expectations to help employees manage workplace pressure. Managers should also ensure technicians have the tools, training, and resources needed to perform their jobs effectively.

Supportive supervisors can recognize signs of stress and burnout, listen to employee concerns, and address excessive workloads before they become larger problems. For fleet maintenance operations, managing employee stress is ultimately an operational concern. Healthier, more engaged technicians are better positioned to maintain productivity, reduce errors, and support vehicle uptime.

You can read the original article from Clark and FleetOwner, a Fleet Maintenance affiliate publication, here.