Adapting Behaviors of Shift Workers That Prevent Health and Well-Being Negative Effects

Introduction: Shift workers have a different arrangement of day activities compared with the day- oriented rhythms of the general population. This study is a response to the need to examine the adapting behaviors of nonstandard hours workers. The research addresses questions about (1) daily and night routines, customs, habits (regarding general recommendations of health care organizations), (2) the role of family and (3) social relationships (outside the workplace and at work) that can help to prevent negative effects and maintain good health and well-being of workers. Identification of different types of actual activities during day and night was explored and described.

Methods: A qualitative research approach was applied. 30 anonymous in-depth interviews were conducted with Polish blue-collar workers (production sector) who are economically active, do or have done shift work- including night work, in the past 5 years, have worked shifts for min. 5 years. Analysis of the material based on the Social Practice Theory- which offers a comprehensive approach to explore the complexity of human behavior in its social and material contexts through the interaction of three elements: meanings (embedded symbols, images, ideas), skills (know-how, competence, ability to follow rules) and objects (materials, products, things).

Results: Widespread access to knowledge (dr. google) and mass communication on social media can pose a threat. The results show that it is not the typically adverse health behaviors described in the literature (alcohol, caffeine) that are a threat, but inappropriate supplementation with vitamins, the doses of which are not consulted with a doctor and are not prescribed. Respondents-shift workers reported taking vitamin supplements (Magnesium, vitamin C, Vit D) on their initiative ‘for the sake of their health’. E.g., workers read that working in artificial light can cause deficiencies in Vit D-, so they take a high dose. Although respondents say the shift work dictates the rhythm of life, they report that they adapt to the rhythm of the general population. The results are conclusive with previous studies: they spend time with their families and perform family duties at the expense of sleep recovery time. Technological innovations support the reconciliation of work and family life.

Conclusion: The scientific research results produce knowledge that helps to improve working conditions, but workers are not aware of specially dedicated information for them. Recommendations for shift workers are not widely known among blue-collar workers. The study points out the need for better dissemination of information on recommendations for off-duty shift workers. Health and safety training focuses on the workplace; outside of work, only the more reflective workers will look for how to help themselves. In conditions that are also demanding for social adjustments and challenges, the large role of social skills (understanding, empathy, respect) from their close social environment plays a supportive role.

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Artikel online veröffentlicht:
08. Oktober 2025