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So Much for Conventional Wisdom

© Stephen Weistling

In many aspects of shiftwork, at least from the employer’s point of view, we have emphasized the advantages of 24-hour operations, from economies of resource utilization to improved customer service. At the same time, we’ve covered some of the negatives from the employee’s point of view. But sometimes we fail to recognize the disadvantages of shiftwork for the company. Only recently, data has emerged which suggests that organizations engaged in, or contemplating extended hour operation should take a serious look at their situations. The results also point out opportunities for assistance, which we shall visit.

Circadian Technologies Inc, is a leading organization in the field of consultation and education for employers and employees engaged in shiftwork (I am not affiliated with them). They have announced the results of extensive research conducted among many shiftworking institutions. This data suggests problem areas, along with some suggestions. This is not intended to be all-inclusive, since it would simply reiterate everything Circadian Technologies has already published. For that, I refer you to their website at http://www.circadian.com.

Productivity can be measured in many ways, but the simplest method simply computed is output per employee per hour. As might be expected, the productivity of a typical 24-hour operation is 5% lower in the midnight to 7:00 a.m. period. But that’s just a part of it. When you add the costs of absenteeism, health care, and turnover, the bottom line is much gloomier. Turnover is nearly three times higher among shiftworkers, and health care costs skyrocket due to increased medical problems and injuries associated with shiftworkers. This also increases insurance premiums for employers.

And in tough economic times, employers shave the workforce, expecting the shiftworkers to pick up the slack in terms of overtime. As stated many times before, shiftworkers have enough to cope with in their regular schedules, let alone add to the burden by having them work extended hours and on their normal days off.

To help combat this, Circadian Technologies recommends several areas for employers to investigate including analyzing their own work data, reallocating human resource budgets, and utilizing risk management principles.

To assist in these areas, other companies are providing these services to 24-hour operations. “Moonlight Staffing” in Portland, Oregon is one such enterprise. Moonlight provides workers for the odd shifts to companies who are expanding their operations or who need seasonal help. Today, Moonlight Staffing has over 700 workers in their files, ready to take on the night shift role. “We’re looking for people with a proven track record of working nights,” says president Todd Kimball.