Citation

Duchon JC, Smith TJ. Int. J. Ind. Ergonomics 1993; 11(1): 37-49.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1993, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

The use of extended workdays (regular shift lengths of 10 or 12 hours, while still maintaining a 40-h workweek) is attracting growing interest on an international basis. There is little doubt that extended workdays are a very popular alternative among the workforce due to the significant increase in days off, including weekends, especially when compared to traditional rotation schedules of working 7 straight shifts or having only one weekend off every four to six weeks.While the popularity of extended workdays has been on the increase, there are some serious concerns by management, workers, unions and various governmental policy makers that working 10- or 12-hour days may create an added risk of accidents and health problems. This manuscript represents a review of the literature of the research of studies related to safety and performance issues of extended workdays. The objective of this manuscript is to describe all relevant research that could aid in decisions regarding the use and implementation of extended workdays.The studies examined in this review are divided into three sections: lab studies, field studies and accident analysis studies. In general results are inconclusive. Studies have shown both positive and negative effects. It is concluded, therefore, that in industries, where accidents are a serious concern, special measures and evaluation in the use of extended workdays be considered.