The "controlled rest" is legal and an accepted procedure in order to improve on-the-job performance and alertness.

CNN: SHARE THIS

The Audit Commission's report warned the Labour-controlled council it must improve in its compliance with contract procedure rules, demonstrating good value for money, reporting to elected members and dealing with whistleblowers.

BBC: Wirral Council officers suspended over highways contract

Exactly why such stimulation works isn't known, experts say, but a similar procedure has been shown in animal studies to help improve learning and memory.

WSJ: A Gut Check for Many Ailments