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Ambassadors are in favour of night-only work shifts

Bangladesh Ambassador Nazimullah Chowdhury welcomed the proposal of night-only shifts with cautious optimism. Any move aimed at alleviating the suffering of the workers is welcome, but the workers themselves have to be consulted on the options in store. If they feel that the switch-over will affect their physical health for want of sleep, they should be allowed to work in split shifts during daytime.

“Further, there is a cost factor involved, as the employers may have to put certain things in place to ensure the safety of workers during night hours. It is a matter that rests with the employers, employees and the government and the whole issue has to be studied in detail before any decision is taken.”

Indian Ambassador C.M. Bhandary, said: "It appears a great idea on the face of it, bringing relief and succour to workers who battle against odds during the scorching months of summer."

“At the outset, it disturbs the bio-rhythm of the human body as there is no substitute to sunlight during day and rest and sleep during night," he said. Even if the workers are let off during the high noon time, they may not take to rest and any type of indulgence during these free hours will impact on their productivity during the long spell of work at night, he said.

It is essential to ensure that workers are well cared for in their camps and given adequate healthcare. As the worksites are prone to accidents, it is necessary to have at least a small team of paramedics to attend to emergencies. Proper housing in air-conditioned units is a must. A sudden shift to working hours in the nights and back to the day routine after a lapse of just two or three months may prove deleterious to the health of the workers.

"I am no medical expert to pass judgement on the repercussions on the health of a worker if he works through the night and the mood swings it may bring about," said Sri Lankan ambassador Mohamed Nabbawi Junaid.

It is incumbent on the employers to ensure the safety of employees in the darkness of the night. The option to choose the shift should be given to the workers as not many are used to work during nights. "I do not know how far this will affect the productivity. Many aspects of the problem have to be studied thoroughly before taking a decision."

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