We can all have that drowsy, sleepy feeling in work - counting the hours until we go home and sleep.

But some people just won't wait, with 61% of employees admitting to falling asleep at work.

This is slightly down on the figure from 2008, when 69% of Irish workers said they had got some shut eye on the job.

It also found that 72% of employees regularly have caffeinated drinks to stay awake.

The new research by Peninsula Ireland asked 1,022 Irish employees and managers throughout February.

Alan Price, managing director of Peninsula Ireland, says this is a wake-up call for employers.

"Tiredness can kill. Extreme as this statement may seem, employees who aren't getting enough sleep in their own time are a hazard to themselves and those around them," he said.

"In sectors that require a high level of concentration, and a clear understanding of health and safety processes and requirements, falling asleep mid-task could cause a fatal accident."

It is calling on employers to stress the importance of sleep, and make it clear that staying up late and neglecting the health and safety of fellow colleagues is unacceptable." 

"Neglecting sleep is also bad for mental health and concentration. For employees regularly driving long-distances for work, a lapse in concentration could cost more than just the repairs of a damaged company vehicle – people’s lives are at stake" Mr Price added.