Some social aspects of shift work in Asian developing countries

Abstract

As shift work spreads to industries in developing countries in Asia, attempts have been made to adjust the shift systems so as to be compatible with the local situation. Reports froms these countries, though still limited in number, indicate that effects on health and repercussions of family and social life are often noticeable. Recent examples of changing rotation shift systems in some Asian developing countries are described and the associated health and social problems are reviewed. These examples show that while physical effects are apparent, psychosocial implications of shift schedules, including those related to family and social life, are regarded by shift workers as the most troublesome. Systems with relatively long day-off periods are often used but they seem to have unfavourable effects due to fatigue and daily life inconveniences during long or consecutive night shifts. The interferences with social and family life seem to play a role in adjusting the shift system in these countries.