Flexible work arrangements and the introduction of work from home opportunities may have increased the threat of employees burning out due to working longer or more irregular hours.
However, successful four day work week trials have recently been publicised in the media. Could this be detrimental to our workforce or could it encourage employees to consider how they work in a more positive way?
Studies have shown that working long hours can lead to negative effects on both the employees and the organisation. In this article, we will discuss how limiting work hours can help create a positive work environment and improve overall employee well-being.
The Negative Effects of Working Long Hours
Long working hours have been linked to various negative health outcomes, including increased risk of heart disease, depression, anxiety, and sleep disorders. In addition, long working hours can lead to decreased job satisfaction, decreased productivity, and increased employee turnover.
A study by the International Labour Organisation found that working more than 48 hours per week is associated with a 1.5-fold increase in the risk of developing coronary heart disease. Another study published in the British Medical Journal found that working long hours was associated with an increased risk of developing depression and anxiety.
Furthermore, a report by the National Bureau of Economic Research found that employees who work long hours are more likely to experience burnout, which can lead to decreased job satisfaction, decreased productivity, and increased employee turnover. This can have a negative impact on the overall performance and profitability of the organisation.
The Benefits of Limiting Work Hours
Limiting work hours can have numerous benefits for both the employees and the organisation. For example, it can lead to improved physical and mental health, increased job satisfaction, increased productivity, and reduced employee turnover.
A study published in the Journal of Occupational Health Psychology found that employees who worked shorter hours reported better health and well-being than those who worked longer hours. Additionally, a study published in the Journal of Business and Psychology found that employees who worked shorter hours reported higher levels of job satisfaction and better work-life balance.
Limiting work hours can also lead to increased productivity. A study by the Stanford Institute for Economic Policy Research found that productivity per hour declines significantly when employees work more than 50 hours per week. In addition, a report by the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development found that there is a negative relationship between working hours and productivity.
Finally, limiting work hours can help reduce employee turnover. A report by the Society for Human Resource Management found that employees who work long hours are more likely to leave their job than those who work shorter hours. This can have a negative impact on the organisation’s bottom line, as it can be costly to recruit and train new employees.
How to Limit Work Hours
There are several ways to limit work hours and create a positive work environment. For example, organisations can implement policies that limit the number of hours employees are allowed to work per week, encourage employees to take breaks and vacations, and promote work-life balance.
One effective way to limit work hours is to encourage employees to prioritise their workload and manage their time effectively. This can help employees complete their tasks in a timely manner and avoid the need to work long hours. Organisations can also consider offering flexible work arrangements, such as telecommuting or compressed workweeks, which can help employees better manage their work and personal responsibilities.
Conclusion
In conclusion, limiting work hours can have numerous benefits for both the employees and the organisation. It can lead to improved physical and mental health, increased job satisfaction, increased productivity, and reduced employee turnover. Organisations can implement policies that limit work hours and promote work-life balance to create a positive work environment and improve overall employee well-being.