Hi All,
Another interesting article on shift work from the journal of occupational environmental medicine.
Regards,
Anthony.
-----Original Message-----
From: [log in to unmask] [mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of richard chalkley (IAH-C)
Sent: 18 April 2012 12:55
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Re: [OCC-HEALTH] 12 HOUR SHIFTS
This is a really interesting issue.
Where the impact of the work is mainly from working shifts, the evidence shows that a rapidly rotating 12 hour shift pattern is better tolerated with regards fatigue, stress etc. However as Rita and Chris state, the exposure time is higher is you are being exposed to hazardous substances or physical and ergonomic hazards. In this case, careful risk assessment and consideration of the occupational health data in the workplace is a must.
I have attached a paper I found earlier that looks at shorter workdays to reduce the imp[act of musculoskeletal diseases and injuries.
Basically it comes back to the need for a risk assessment as required by the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999.
Regards,
Richard.
-----Original Message-----
From: [log in to unmask] [mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of Chris Packham
Sent: 18 April 2012 12:40
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Re: [OCC-HEALTH] 12 HOUR SHIFTS
In addition to Rita's comments may I add a concern about 12 hour shifts. If the work could involve the development of WRULD, dermatitis, etc., the extended duration could increase the risk to the individual. With an 8 hour shift the duration is shorter and therefore the risk reduced. The body can recover between shifts. With the 12 hour shift this could be sufficient additional exposure time to result in clinically relevant damage, particularly where skin exposure is concerned.
Chris
Chris Packham
FRSPH, FInstSMM, MCMI, MIIRSM, MBICSc
EnviroDerm Services
Unit 10, Building 11, The Mews, Mitcheldean, GL17 0SN
Tel: +44 1386 832 311 (office), Mobile: +44 7818 035 898 www.enviroderm.co.uk
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