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Cardiovascular changes in operators on 12-hour shifts
I Hadjiolova1, L Mincheva, C Deyanov
1National Centre of Hygiene, Medical Ecology and Nutrition, Sofia, Bulgaria.
Reviews on Environmental Health
|January 1, 1994
Summary
Extended workday schedules in chemical plants show light to moderate cardiovascular strain for male operators. Female operators experienced higher strain during day shifts, indicating a need for improved working conditions.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Cardiovascular Physiology
- Industrial Psychology
Background:
- Compressed workweeks with extended daily hours are common.
- Assessing the health and well-being impacts of these schedules is crucial.
- Extended workdays may affect cardiovascular strain in shift workers.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate cardiovascular strain in chemical plant control room operators on extended 12-hour shifts.
- To assess operator tolerance to longer work shifts.
- To identify potential differences in cardiovascular response between genders.
Main Methods:
- Electrocardiogram (ECG) Holter monitoring was used.
- Cardiovascular strain was assessed during 12-hour day and night shifts.
- Job analysis and time-budget surveys were conducted.
Main Results:
- Male operators exhibited light to moderate cardiovascular strain.
- Female operators showed higher heart rate and more ECG changes during day shifts.
- Night shifts resulted in lower mean heart rates for both genders, with flattened circadian rhythms in females.
Conclusions:
- Overall cardiovascular strain in chemical operators is acceptable for extended shifts.
- The occupation is generally suitable for longer shift durations.
- Improvements in working conditions are needed, particularly for female operators.