Linda M Goldenhar1, Steven Hecker, Susan Moir, John Rosecrance. 1. Institute for Health Policy and Health Services Research, Medical Center, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45267-0552, USA. GOLDENLA@UCMAIL.UC.EDU
Abstract
PROBLEM: Little research exists on the relationship between working overtime and possible adverse health and safety outcomes for construction workers. METHOD: Five focus-group discussions were conducted with construction workers from around the United States. From the analyzed transcripts, a model of overtime was developed. RESULTS: The model includes three dominant themes: (1) work organization issues [(a) definitions of overtime, (b) scheduling, and (c) economic conditions], (2) why workers choose to work overtime [(a) management expectations, (b) career, and (c) money], and (3) the effects of working overtime [(a) health and safety, including sleep deprivation, injury, fatigue, and stress, and (b) productivity]. DISCUSSION: Health and safety is only one of the adverse outcomes related to working too much overtime. A list of worker-inspired recommendations for addressing overtime issues is provided. IMPACT ON THE INDUSTRY: Both employers and workers need to better understand the potential adverse effects of working too much overtime.
PROBLEM: Little research exists on the relationship between working overtime and possible adverse health and safety outcomes for construction workers. METHOD: Five focus-group discussions were conducted with construction workers from around the United States. From the analyzed transcripts, a model of overtime was developed. RESULTS: The model includes three dominant themes: (1) work organization issues [(a) definitions of overtime, (b) scheduling, and (c) economic conditions], (2) why workers choose to work overtime [(a) management expectations, (b) career, and (c) money], and (3) the effects of working overtime [(a) health and safety, including sleep deprivation, injury, fatigue, and stress, and (b) productivity]. DISCUSSION: Health and safety is only one of the adverse outcomes related to working too much overtime. A list of worker-inspired recommendations for addressing overtime issues is provided. IMPACT ON THE INDUSTRY: Both employers and workers need to better understand the potential adverse effects of working too much overtime.