Late-night extended work hours significantly increase health risks, reveals research
The Occupational Safety and Health Research Institute's latest study reveals a correlation between shift work, nighttime work, and extended working hours, and increased health risks compared to regular working conditions.
The research indicates that workers with irregular working conditions consistently face higher health risks. Specifically, those who work night shifts are 22.6 percent more likely to experience mental health issues, while those who work irregular shifts are 23.7 percent more likely to have problems with their physical health, except for mental health risks which do not significantly increase among all irregular shift workers, except those working long, nighttime hours.
The study further suggests that a combination of shift work and nighttime work raises the health risk by 53.1 percent. If workers also work irregular shifts, their mental health risk increases to 90.4 percent.
Long hours were identified as the biggest risk factor among the three highlighted by the researchers. Working more than 48 hours a week significantly increases the likelihood of developing physical health problems by 129 percent, according to the study.
Sleep disorders, fatigue, and sleep deprivation are common issues associated with shift work, particularly night shifts and 12-hour systems. These factors contribute to chronic health conditions like cancer and cardiovascular disease, as well as work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) due to poor ergonomic conditions and prolonged repetitive or strenuous tasks.
The study recommends ergonomic improvements, institutional support, and interventions focused on sleep health and worker safety to address these risks. It also suggests clear legal clauses to guarantee recovery time for workers who work late, for long hours, and in irregular shifts.
Other countries make greater efforts to ensure workers get enough rest after nighttime work. The study calls for similar measures to be implemented in order to protect the health and well-being of workers.
The study, which used data from a 2023 survey on 38,599 employees across the country, emphasizes the importance of flexible work hours for laborers to acquire sufficient rest. It also suggests restricting overtime work exceeding eight hours, at least 11 hours of rest in such cases for physical and mental recovery, and broadening criteria on which laborers are subject to special health inspections to include those on irregular hours.
In conclusion, the study underscores the significance of addressing the health risks associated with shift work, nighttime work, and extended working hours. By implementing measures such as flexible work hours, rest guarantees, and health interventions, it is possible to mitigate these risks and promote the overall well-being of workers.
Workplace-wellness initiatives that focus on mental health, health-and-wellness, nutrition, and sleep could potentially reduce the increased health risks faced by workers with irregular working conditions, such as those who work night shifts or long hours. The study recommends legal measures, improved ergonomics, and interventions to help workers in irregular shifts get enough rest and support their mental and physical health.
