V. Safe Work Practices for Managers and Workers

Remember the additional health and safety issues that are connected with working long hours.

• Working extended shifts or extended periods can prolong exposure to workplace hazards such as noise, heat, chemicals, and others.
• These exposures could exceed established permissible exposure limits (PELs) or violate other health standards.
• Employers must implement measures to monitor and limit worker exposures to health and physical hazards in the workplace, as required by the Occupational Safety and Health Act.

Designing the Work Schedules

• Use reasonable work hours to allow responders to sleep and recuperate after work shifts.
• Prioritize and be selective about what work needs to be done and by when.

Consider these guidelines:

• Regular rest: Establish at least 10 consecutive hours per day of protected time off-duty in order to obtain 7-8 hours of sleep. Shorter off-duty periods can compound the fatigue of long work hours.
• Rest breaks: Frequent, brief rest breaks (every 1-2 hours) during demanding work are more effective in preventing on-the-job injuries and errors than a few longer ones. Allow longer breaks for meals.