Managing health risk among shift workers in the oil and gas industry in Malaysia

Abstract

Shift work is part and parcel of health problems identified among the workers in the oil and gas sector in Malaysia. High and continuous demand for production has become a pushing factor for them to work 24/7 schedule. Absenteeism, obesity and health impairments are some of the critical issues that have been reported. This study aims to identify health problems and issues related to shift work and propose intervention plans to reduce the impact on the shift workers. Data were analysed using SPSS software to obtain descriptive statistics of the respondents’ demographic features and to determine the correlation between six factors that affect shift workers. A statistically significantly difference was found in the demographics of positions categories and education background, but no significant difference was found for age category and years of services in their perceptions of the shift work problems at workplaces. In addition, there is a robust statistical correlation between behaviour of shift workers, accidents at the workplace, family and social life issues, health or disease and sleep or wakeup problems, but there is no statistical correlation for the organisation or department roles and responsibilities. Suitable intervention programs from the organisation on shift schedule in accordance with ergonomic, health surveillance and social upkeep for shift workforces are important precautionary and remedial measures.