Longer Hours Ahead? The Potential Downsides of a "Weekly Working Time" Model
Research reveals extended working schedule leading to 12-hour workweeks - Intensive Workweek Yields 12 Hours Daily According to Research Findings
Ready for 12-hour workdays? That's what a new "weekly working time" policy might bring, according to trade union-affiliated agencies. But are there hidden dangers lurking behind these long shifts? Let's take a closer look.
Health Risks
The impact on health is a major concern. Long work hours can lead to frequent occurrences of stress-related and psychological diseases, causing absenteeism, and even early retirement. The accident risk also heightens from the eighth hour on. While the coalition agreement promises to maintain high standards in occupational safety, this remains a significant worry.
Family and Social Life
When it comes to balancing family and career, the jury's still out. The innovation could reduce predictability and planability of working times, particularly among women. This, in turn, may lead to a further reduction in working hours, negatively impacting overall productivity.
Economic Implications
Economically speaking, while longer hours might initially seem beneficial, they could end up being counterproductive. The existing law already allows for flexible working hours under certain conditions, and the total working time volume in Germany is significantly above the 1991 level. Overhauling the system may not improve the current situation, especially when considering the costs associated with health issues, accidents, and reduced productivity.
Other Considerations: Health, Family, and Wallet
It's all about striking a balance. Moving towards 12-hour workdays raises concerns related to cognitive impairment, cardiovascular health, family time, work-life balance, and economic productivity. Employers must weigh these factors carefully and consider the potential impact on their employees' well-being and overall business efficiency.
- Weekly working time
- Health risks
- Family and social impacts
- Economic implications
- European regulations
EC countries should carefully consider the health risks associated with a shift towards weekly working time models, as these prolonged shifts can lead to stress-related and psychological diseases, increased accident rates, and reduced productivity. Economically, while this change might seem beneficial in the short term, it could potentially be counterproductive, especially considering the existing laws allowing flexible working hours and the high total working time volume in many EC countries. Employers should also consider the family and social impacts, as these changes could negatively affect work-life balance and overall employee well-being, potentially leading to further reductions in working hours.
