Getting Home After Shift

There is plenty of evidence to suggest that those who drive home in the morning after a night shift are more at risk for driving accidents. More recently concern is being raised regarding the safety of those who are leaving work late at night. The concern is that those who walk or use public transportation late at night may be at risk, especially since a number of young women have been killed on their way home from work late at night.

A related question with this issue is the extent to which an employer should bear responsibility for ensuring a safe passage home for employees who leave work late at night. Some jurisdictions currently require that employers provide free and safe transportation for the employee. This may be in the form of a cab or ride provided by the manager. Whether all jurisdictions should require such regulation is still a matter of debate.

Strategies for Health and Safety

• If your organization requires employees to travel home from work after midnight, ensure that they have a safe means home. Public transportation late at night may not always be the safest choice.

• Contact workplace regulators to determine what, if any, regulations apply to late night travel from work in your jurisdiction.

• Develop policies for those employees required to travel late at night from work.

• Provide cab vouchers if necessary.

• Provide education on how to travel safely late at night.

• Consult with local police services and safety councils.

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