Does individual choice determine shift system acceptability

The relationship between individual control of hours of work and tolerance of shiftwork was examined in a group of nurses and midwives. Two levels of individual control were studied: (i) choosing to work on a regular shift system, e.g. a permanent night shift; and (ii) working on a flexible, rotating shift system where individual choice of shift-sequencing is taken into account. Greater tolerance to shiftwork was found to be associated with more control over hours of work. The advantages of flexible as opposed to irregular shift-rostering, and of choosing to work on a regular permanent night shift were highlighted clearly. The results offer some contribution to the permanent night versus rapidly-rotating shift system debate.