Offshore industry shift work--health and social considerations

Shift work is an integral part of many offshore jobs. While a considerable body of evidence exists concerning the impact of shift work in general, much less research has been directed specifically at the offshore workplace. This brief review attempts to highlight some of the work that has particular application to this environment, relating to physical health, psychosocial well-being and safety. Shift working has been an integral part of the offshore environment since the beginning of the industry, but it is only in the recent years that substantial effort has been directed towards the potential problems (or benefits) in this specific environment. It is clear that the offshore working community presents unique situations that need to be addressed specifically rather than managed as direct extensions of routine onshore shift work. Some unique features of the offshore workplace are identified and a number of possible areas for further research are highlighted.