“The benefits of working at night mask the negative health effects”

“The benefits of working at night mask the negative health effects”

2024-08-06 02:45:04

Rising global temperatures are making heatwaves more frequent, more intense and longer, a phenomenon exacerbated by urban overheating. High temperatures affect quality of life and health: malaise, headaches, cognitive difficulties are often observed, and heat stroke can lead to serious consequences including death.

To limit the effects of heat waves, governments have developed public policies that promote sun protection, shading devices and the reintroduction of water and plants into cities. However, these solutions appear to be too progressive. This has led to lifestyle adaptations, particularly changes in rhythm, favoring cooler nights.

Night working is the solution to avoid traveling and working during peak temperatures. This practice has become common among farmers and construction workers. Working at night can reduce the risks associated with heat and help maintain productivity while reducing energy consumption due to less use of air conditioning. Night work also allows companies to increase flexibility, allowing employees around the world to collaborate around the clock.

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But these benefits mask another reality. The city at night can feel unwelcoming. Not all roads are well lit and more and more streets are closed after a period of time. Pedestrians walking at night with insufficient lighting are at risk of falling, colliding with vehicles, and often feeling unsafe.

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As for buildings, the vast majority are designed for daytime activities. Due to insufficient lighting, poor ventilation, closed passages, network maintenance, etc., they are not suitable for night operation. These conditions complicate the tasks performed by those working at night, such as security and maintenance personnel.

In addition to the often unfavorable nighttime environment, working at night has been shown to have negative health effects as a result of changes in working hours disrupting the circadian clock and sleep. Therefore, it increases the risk of cardiometabolic, mental health, memory, cognitive, and cancer diseases. Lack of sunlight is also a factor in seasonal depression.

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