Citation

Bjorkum AA, Pallesen S, Holsten F, Bjorvatn B. Tidsskr. Nor. Laegeforen. 2004; 124(21): 2773-2775.

Vernacular Title

Skiftarbeid og ulykker--relevans for offshoreindustrien.

Affiliation

Institutt for akvakultur-, kjemi og bioingeniorfag Avdeling for ingeniorutdanning Hogskolen i Bergen Nygardsgaten 112 Postboks 7030 5020 Bergen alvhild.bjorkum@hib.no.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2004, Norske Laegeforening)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

15534673

Abstract

BACKGROUND:Increased use of shift work depends on keeping productivity and safety at acceptable levels. Approximately 7000 workers in the Norwegian offshore industry are working night shifts. MATERIAL AND METHODS:We have reviewed relevant literature on injuries in relation to shift work. RESULTS:The literature is inconclusive. The reason for this is most likely that all the studies are either observational or retrospective; no controlled interventions were found. However, shift work generally and night shifts in particular seem to increase the risk of injury. When newer data are taken into account, these clearly indicate that shift work is associated with reduced safety and productivity. INTERPRETATION:We conclude that if and when shift work is needed, it should be organised with certain patterns and rest breaks in order to reduce the risk of accidents and injuries. Focused and well-planned research is strongly needed in this field. Very few studies have been conducted on shift work and health effects offshore.