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Too many employees are still being forced to work long hours without appropriate rest, despite the growing evidence that this is bad for health and safety. IOSH (Institution of Occupational Safety and Health) president elect, Lisa Fowlie, said that the wranglings that continue to dog a decision on the opt-out from the Working Time Directive meant that unscrupulous employers could "still apply unacceptable levels of pressure" on employees to work beyond the yearly average of 48 hours per week. "Although we appreciate the concerns the UK government has over losing the opt-out, employees should be free to choose whether they work long hours or not. The fact that this is an option seems to have been forgotten by some employers. IOSH would like to see a stop to those employers who bully or manipulate their staff into working long hours. "The evidence is there that working long hours is bad for health and safety. Health and Safety Executive research has shown that working long hours can lead to stress and psychological problems. It's also not good for productivity - tired staff can't be expected to perform as well as fresh employees." IOSH has previously called for a time limited opt-out to be introduced, allowing people the freedom to choose to work long hours, and to change their minds whenever they want or need to. Lisa added: "Under this model, employees who decide to opt-out would be required to regularly renew their decision. "Employers must also take their responsibilities to employees who sign the opt-out seriously. They must keep a close eye on these people, and the first signs of stress or another work-related illness or injury, take measures to reduce their workload and refer them to an expert for help. We believe this is the only fair way to balance the needs of businesses with the safety of employees." Source: IOSH News Release |
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