The Impact of Shift Work on Employee Health-Investigating The Relationship Between Shift Work and Employee Health Outcomes, Including Sleep, Disorders and Fatigue

This study investigates the impact of shift work on employee health among Ghanaian workers, with a focus on the prevalence of sleep disorders, the experience of fatigue, and the influence of organizational and societal factors. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the research combines quantitative assessments of sleep quality and fatigue with qualitative interviews to explore workers’ lived experiences. Findings reveal that shift work significantly disrupts sleep patterns, leading to chronic fatigue that affects physical, cognitive, and emotional well-being. Organizational factors such as lack of scheduling autonomy and limited workplace support exacerbate these health outcomes. Additionally, psychosocial stressors stemming from family responsibilities and social isolation intensify fatigue. The study also highlights how cultural norms and societal perceptions shape employees’ coping strategies and health experiences. These insights underscore the need for holistic interventions that address biological, organizational, and cultural dimensions to improve the health and productivity of shift workers in Ghana. The research contributes context-specific knowledge essential for policymakers and employers aiming to develop effective occupational health strategies.