Work in rotating shifts and its effects on the daily life of grain processing workers

• Published in: Revista latino-americana de enfermagem Vol. 18; no. 6; pp. 1070 - 1075
• Main Authors: Simões, Mariana Roberta Lopes, Marques, Flávia Cristina, Rocha, Adelaide de Mattia
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Brazil Escola de Enfermagem de Ribeirão Preto / Universidade de São Paulo 01.11.2010
• Subjects: Adolescent; Adult; Cross-Sectional Studies; Edible Grain; Food-Processing Industry; Humans; Male; NURSING; Occupational Exposure; Quality of Life; Work Schedule Tolerance; Young Adult; Trabajo por Turnos; Riesgos Laborales; Trabalho em Turnos; Occupational Health; Occupational Risks; Working Conditions; Salud Laboral; Riscos Ocupacionais; Condiciones del Trabajo; Saúde do Trabalhador; Shift Work; Condições de Trabalho
• ISSN: 0104-1169; 1518-8345; 0104-1169
• DOI: 10.1590/S0104-11692010000600005

This study aimed to investigate the effects of alternating shift work in the daily life of grain processing workers. A quantitative data collection research was carried out at a grain processing company in Goiás--Brazil. Research participants were 53 alternating shift workers. A questionnaire was developed and used for data collection, based on the principles of chronobiology and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, with 31 closed and one open question. The result showed unsatisfactory sleep quality for approximately 50% of the participants. The most evidenced physiological changes referred to the digestive tract. As for behavioral aspects, irritability was highlighted. Among the research participants, 70% considered that their work hours affect their leisure and social life. In conclusion, negative manifestations exist in the daily life of people working in alternating shifts, which can affect their physical, mental and social health.