A Wake-Up Call for Employers: The Impact of Unconventional Work Hours on Sleep Health:
Examining the Sleep Disruptions Caused by Atypical Work Schedules in the UK Workforce
In the ever-evolving landscape of the UK workforce, unconventional work hours are becoming the new norm. Longer workweeks, weekend shifts, and nonstandard schedules are on the rise, challenging the traditional 9-5 paradigm.
A new study has explored how these atypical temporal work patterns affect the sleep quality of over 25,000 employed individuals. Researchers analysed the associations between three distinct atypical work patternsāprolonged and shortened workweeks, weekend labour, and nonstandard schedulesāand sleep duration and disturbances.
Researchers found that workers putting in 55 hours or more per week reported shorter sleep durations (less than 7 hours per night) and increased sleep disturbances.
Those weekend warriors who toil away most or all weekends, faced challenges of both short and long sleep durations (more than 8 hours per night) and heightened sleep disturbances.
Similarly, those on nonstandard schedules, deviating from the traditional fixed day-time routine, also experienced disruptions in their sleep patterns. Intriguingly, gender differences emerged upon further analysis, emphasizing the need for a nuanced approach.
So What?
This research sends a clear message to employers and policymakers alike. The detrimental effects of atypical work schedules on sleep are present and should not be ignored.
Recognition of the essential need for rest and recovery is paramount. The timing and scheduling of work must be scrutinized, with a focus on enhancing workers' health and productivity. Furthermore, a call to action for appropriate compensation for those navigating unconventional work hours is sounded.
As the workforce landscape transforms, the clarion call is for a holistic approach that prioritizes the well-being of workers, fostering a balance between professional commitments and the fundamental need for quality sleep.
Source: 10.1186/s12889-024-17762-0