Mitigation of Shift Rotation Effects on Workers’ Health and Sleep Quality in Manufacturing Companies in Latvia

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the impact of rotating and night shifts on workers’ sleep quality and health. To conduct the study authors use data from foreign and Latvian studies on the effects of shift, night shift, and rotating shift work on workers’ sleep and health; survey data from four manufacturing companies in Latvia and work absence data from one of the surveyed companies. The results of the study indicate that rotating shifts and night work affect the quality of sleep of employees. In turn, poor sleep quality in the long term can result in serious health consequences for the employees involved in shift and night work. Rotating shifts and night work can be a contributing factor to other work environment risks as well as non-work-related health problems. Rotating shifts and night shifts can also be associated with more frequent work absences. Public institutions, employers, and employees need to be involved to reduce the negative impact. To mitigate the negative effects, the authors recommend changes in legislation, health-promoting measures on the part of employers, and responsible action from employees regard to preventive measures.