Challenges of 24-Hour Work Shifts for HR Professionals
Decline in End-of-Day Alertness
HR Professionals working prolonged shifts, particularly consecutive ones, sometimes experience a decline in their overall level of alertness by the end of the day. Employee fatigue can affect their alertness at the end of the second and third shifts of the work week. This drawback can lead to issues with productivity, work quality, and emotional stability. This problem can increase the danger of accidents for employees working extended shifts during their commute.
Limited Time for Rest and Recovery
Following the end of their work shift, human resource professionals need some time to unwind and get ready for their scheduled sleep routine. After working for twenty-four hours, you will only have two to three hours before you are required to go to bed in preparation for the next shift. If your body is unable to adjust to this pattern, there is a possibility that you will have major physiological consequences that build up over time. When employers require employees to work a 24-hour shift rather than a shorter one, they increase the likelihood of employees experiencing a variety of health problems, including sleep difficulties, musculoskeletal disorders, problems with the central nervous system, and other health issues.
Elevated Stress Levels in Duties
On account of the various interactions or tasks that are expected of the employee, there is a risk that the employment of a human resources professional will involve elevated levels of stress. Consistent exposure to stressful circumstances, such as coordinating contractors, engaging with clients, or performing high-risk maintenance cleaning activities, may lead to the development of physical concerns over time for the individual. Some workers may try to make up for it by drinking coffee throughout the day, which may lead to a drop in their performance. But this is not guaranteed to happen.
Strategies for Managing 24-Hour Call Shifts
Be Well-Equipped for the Long Haul
A call that lasts for more than twenty-four hours might be unexpectedly busy. Despite my best efforts, I did not bring along a sufficient quantity of food, snacks, and beverages. If your shift is very hectic, you might not have the opportunity to go to the cafeteria for a quick supper. While traveling, individuals must ensure they bring a suitable number of meals and snacks to eat in case they require them. To satisfy my hunger during breaks or while I was traveling from one site to another, I regularly carried one or two granola bars in my pocket.
Leverage Support Systems
Working a 24+ hour shift, particularly as a CIPD student and intern, may be extremely overwhelming, tiring, and mentally draining. When dealing with a patient in a critical condition, such as crashing or with fluctuating blood pressure, it is acceptable and recommended to seek assistance if the situation becomes too much to handle. During your time at CIPD school and early in residency, while you are still acquiring knowledge and skills, there will always be someone available to provide you with HR assignment help. Do not hesitate to reach out to a co-resident, junior, senior, or attendee if you encounter a challenging scenario.
Combat Fatigue with Smart Choices
The majority of human resource professionals will find it difficult to maintain their alertness, attentiveness, and concentration throughout a call shift that lasts for more than twenty-four hours if they do not consume coffee. To ensure that I had hot tea bags, energy bars, soda, and many other energy beverages on hand in case of an emergency, I usually brought them with me. At three in the morning, when my second wind begins to wane, I may have some additional energy to endure the remaining hours of the day.
Reset and Refocus Periodically
During a protracted phone call, if you find that you are becoming exhausted and overwhelmed, you should take short breaks at regular intervals. Take a short break to reset and redirect your attention by strolling to the restroom, choosing the stairs over the elevator, or grabbing a snack. Some of these options are available. It is possible to considerably improve one's ability to keep focus and energy levels by the implementation of brief breaks during an extended call shift.
Conclusion
In conclusion, mastering 24-hour shift schedules presents significant challenges for HR professionals, impacting alertness, rest, and stress levels. By employing strategic coping mechanisms and leveraging support systems, HR professionals can navigate these challenges effectively and ensure operational success.
No comments yet