Workers who work shifts are usually seen as second-class citizens by society. They are often referred to by the names “third shift” or “graveyard shift.” Yet it is important to improve their health and overall well-being is in everyone’s best interests. This can ensure they stay fit and live long into retirement.
A higher risk of accidents
The change in working hours to include night shifts can create a higher chance of accidents. For instance, drivers could be less attentive when they are working at night, which could lead to speeding up or even running off the road. Therefore, workplace safety measures are essential. A pleasant and cool work environment could help workers remain alert and efficient, which will decrease the risk of injuries and accidents. Furthermore, any changes in the workplace are discussed with employees in order to ensure that they’ll be able to perform their work in a safe manner without sacrificing productivity.
Research has shown that the chance of an accident for night shift employees is about 18% more likely than for employees working the morning shift. This risk is increased by 37% for those who are employed for 12 hours a day. Based on this information, researchers have discovered that the higher chance of accidents is due to the fatigue of workers. Along with accidents that happen during shifts, shift workers are more at risk of being the victims of industrial accidents and motor vehicle accidents. Research has shown that this higher risk is especially evident among health care workers, where fatigue can lead to problems with motor and judgment.
Sleeping pills are a good option.
Workers in shifts often take sleep drugs such as Modalert to improve their performance. These medicines, also known as Modafinil, can cause undesirable side effects and can result in dependence. Modalert 200 can be described as a medicine that aids people suffering from sleep apnea, narcolepsy, and issues with shift work to remain alert. There are also studies showing that these medications can increase performance and alertness after an evening shift.
The use of sleeping pills is beneficial for some, but they should only be used as an alternative. Although these medications may provide some relief for a short time, they do not solve the root of the issue. They do not help to reset your body clock. Another problem shift workers confront is the lack of time. They do not have time to indulge in personal activities or spend time with family and friends. Furthermore, their work schedule differs from the typical work schedule of the average person.
Higher risk of mental health issues
A recent study has found shift workers are at a higher chance of suffering from mental health issues. Researchers looked into the connection between shift work and health in addition to smoking, physical exercise, and sleep. The findings of the study also showed that a combination of shift types and job stress was linked to increased mental health risk.
Workers who work shifts are more vulnerable to mental health issues, particularly depression. In particular, the inability to be exposed to sunlight during the evening hours makes them more susceptible to suffering from seasonal mood disorders (SAD). Alongside seasonal affective disorder, night shift workers may suffer from other forms of depression. The stress that comes with shift work can have a negative impact on their relationships with their families and friends.
Limiting hours of work
Workers in shifts are eager to have a better night’s sleep. Many of them believe that sleep deprivation can cause drowsy driving. But they do not think about the effects of their work schedules and what alternatives there are that could help them live a better life. But, having a conversation about the potential dangers of being drowsy will help them appreciate the advantages of better sleep.
Planning breaks every day is a simple way to increase productivity and sleep for shift workers. A healthy lifestyle requires a balance of work and life. Limiting the number of hours an employee works each day can help him or her maintains a healthy lifestyle. Additionally, working in short periods gives an opportunity to recharge for the following day.
Taking nap breaks
If you’re a worker on shift, you’ve probably heard of the benefits of naps. Naps enhance the quality of sleep and productivity and may help prevent sleep deficiency. Lack of sleep can impact memory, judgment, reactions, and alertness. A 15- to 30-minute nap can boost energy levels and reduce fatigue. Many shift workers feel more alert following a brief nap. A longer nap can improve cognitive performance and can lead to more restful sleep.
Researchers have discovered that naps during night shifts help shift workers reduce the impact of fatigue and loss of sleep on their work. In a study, those who took naps throughout the evening showed significant improvements in the speed of their responses. The participants of the study were tested prior to and following their shifts in order to assess the impact of their naps on their productivity. Researchers also discovered that napping during night shifts was associated with lower levels of anxiety among shift workers than those who didn’t nap. Also, nappers reported higher rates of sleep recovery than those who did not nap.
