Night Shift Dangers

As the increase in jobs requiring night shift or the 24/7 open for business phenomena gradually widens we ask; what are the dangers?

In point of fact this is not a new subject, extensive research has already been done. The brunt of the health concerns are and will undoubtedly be born solely by the employees, their families and social circle. An increased demand for night shift work and health issues is a part of a bigger problem. Sources claim that some companies use nefarious tactics on employees to get them to volunteer for shift work or make it a prerequisite of their contract.

What happens and what are the consequences?
Loss of REM sleep or rapid eye movement sleep which occurs in the small hours of the morning is the precise time our bodies heal and regenerate themselves best. The effect on our body clock; as well as reduction of essential vitamins obtained from natural daylight are akin to those found in sleep deprivation. It's no coincidence humans are designed for day living.

The initial problems appear to be of a social nature, but this is the tip of the iceberg. Fatigue, drowsiness, increased susceptibility to illness, mood swings and eating habits are affected, more alarmingly some scientists claim it can shorten your lifespan.

A revision is also required of the necessity of various types of night shift work. It is clearly not in the interest of a minority of organizations to undertake an in-depth statistical study into the long term health and financial costs of night shifts as the results would be damning. Moreover the general trend for companies with health problem employees is to replace them by any disposable means.