Managing the Shiftwork Workplace

A shift work workplace is clearly differentiated from other workplaces that operate Monday through Friday, nine to five. The many unique features of shift work impact on productivity, safety and employee health and well-being. Human resource managers need to consider a variety of issues in addition to their usual undertakings. How Shiftwise are the human resource management practices in your organization?

Are schedules designed to meet both organizational and employee needs?
Design of schedules must focus on the business and operational needs of an organization, but other factors are equally important. Consider both the personal needs of your employees as well as the need to sleep at physiologically appropriate times.

Are employees provided with information about the best practices for enhancing sleep, wakefulness and health in a shift work environment?
Research has shown that education for employees and their families pays big dividends in better employee health and morale, fewer accidents and better productivity.

Are policies and protocols in place to deal with employees who are experiencing difficulty with sleeping and alertness?
These employees may be identified because of excessive sick time or because of an accident at work. However, once they are identified, managers must decide on how this employee will be dealt with and how or if they can be reintegrated.

Are you hiring those candidates most adaptable to a shift work environment?
When you consider which applicant is best for the job, you need to assess if this applicant is also the best choice for a shift work job. Ability to cope with the challenges of shift work must be included in the essential skills for the job and this ability must be adequately assessed prior to making the job offer.

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