Consider Providing Services That Help Workers Work Long Hours Temporarily

When long work hours are not avoidable, some services can reduce non-work demands on workers so they can devote their time off to rest and sleep.

Consider providing these:

• Healthy foods and drinks at the worksite (see ‘Diet’ in Section VI for recommended foods)
• Rooms to sleep close to the worksite
• Comfortable uniforms and laundering of clothes
• Child care
• Transportation to sleeping rooms
• Counseling and healthcare
• Recreation equipment and supplies

Ask your staff what other services might be helpful.

• Avoid pressuring workers to work extra shifts. Longer shifts are associated with increased errors and injuries.
• Promote education of your staff about sleep and strategies to reduce risks associated with long work hours. Include this information in orientation for new employees.