As humans are naturally diurnal, working shifts can have a major effect on their health and well-being. As we are naturally programmed to sleep at night and be awake during the day, working times which interrupt this pattern carries a risk of increased health implications. For example, sleep deficit and fatigue can build up and as a result an employee isn't going to be as alert and focussed and are therefore more likely to make mistakes. Being tired is also likely to affect their general mood and they could be more irritable and unhappy which not only alters their mental health but is very detrimental if they are dealing with your customers.
The nature of some professions such as bar staff, medical professionals and security officers often requires people to work longer hours and shifts which can run through the night. Whilst this can't be prevented, reducing staff sickness, improving morale and ensuring that your company is keeping up with legal guidelines can all easily be maintained.
Corporate Health can work with businesses to advise employers on how to deal with shift patterns, keep up to date with compliance for the European Working Time Directive and even administer night worker assessments. All of these actions can help you to closely monitor the mental and physical health of your employers and minimise any illnesses or time off which may occur in the future.