The proportion of employees usually or occasionally working at night- that is to say between 9 P.M. and 6 A.M.- is estimated at between 15 and 20%. Indeed, night work is necessary in many professional sectors especially in large industries where, for economic reasons, the machines operate 24 hours per day. This is the case for metalworking industry for example or for services such as police or hospitals. On June 22, 2016, the French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health Safety (Anses) published a report upon request by The CFTC (Conféderation Française des Travailleurs Chrétiens – French Confederation of Christian Workers) on the health risks associated with night work.

The agency denounces various risks that may affect night workers.

First, there are risks related to sleep. As a matter of facts, night workers can disrupt their bodies and circadian rhythm. Their disturbed sleep can cause loss of alertness due to fatigue and provoke occupational accidents, especially between 2.00 P.M. and 5.00 A.M.

Then night work can trigger psychological risks. The employee can become isolated from his/her relatives: lack of communication, lesser participation to family life and to decision-making and this can have an impact on his or her emotional balance. Lastly, night work can lead to somatic problems especially digestive ones. As a matter of facts, because of unbalanced and irregular meals and generally an excessive consumption of tea or coffee in order to stay awake, the employee can contract ulcers, diabetes or abdominal pain for example.

To avoid these risks, the agency recommends a good synchronization in terms of sleep and diet. Besides, a good organization combining professional life and family life is essential. The employee must also maintain his or her break times, to rest outside of working hours and to be medically followed up. More detailed recommendations must be studied in social dialogue bodies. The Anses also advises to assess the health impacts of night work and the “social costs” associated in comparison with the economic and social benefits produced.

Thus, can we play with the employees’ health for economic reasons? Might all the medical expenses related to night work be avoided?