Concerned About Worker Fatigue: Is Our Night Shift Schedule Safe for Six Days Straight?

As an HR Assistant working on a construction project, I have noticed that recently, the workers have started working late, which seems concerning. However, the workers are enjoying it because they save on night meals since meals are provided, and they also receive overtime pay for the extended hours.

My concern is that the same group that works the regular 8 hours ends up extending to almost 8 to 9 hours and then has to report early the following morning for six days straight. I am worried that something might go wrong on one of those days when they operate for extended hours.

Please help me out.

Understanding Working Hours and Overtime

Human beings have a physical capacity, and taking that into account, working hours are fixed by enlightened states. Overtime (OT) is allowed with controls. I advise you to check local laws relating to working hours and explicitly inform your management. If something goes wrong, local regulators will fall upon the employer strictly and directly blame them for overtaxing workers, which can lead to accidents due to fatigue, etc.

Role of HR in Managing Working Hours

As an HR professional, play your advisory role in a smart manner and bring rules/laws on working hours to the notice of decision-makers. Also, suggest alternatives like hiring additional labor, etc.

Dear Marvyn,

There are two aspects to consider:

1) Legal - Legally, there is no issue as they are paid overtime at twice the rate.
2) Health aspects - Yes, overstressing can pose hazards.

Since overstretching is the norm for projects, it is advisable to get accustomed to it if you intend to continue.

Shailesh Parikh
99 98 97 10 65
Vadodara