Working conditions

Of central importance to health workers are the work time and occupational safety and health provisions of ILO standards. The two issues are often related to each other. Due to the nature of the services which are being provided during 24 hours, shift work, overtime, stand-by, and appropriate rest have to be considered in national patterns of work organization, labour laws and statutes. Guidance is provided in the Night Work Recommendation, 1990 (No. 178), and in the Nursing Personnel Recommendation, 1977 (No. 157). It is recommended to provide at least the same conditions as in other sectors. However, the particular burdens on health workers and the implications on national health give such conditions a special place in society and the economy. Occupational safety and health protection is of particular importance in view of the special hazards faced by health workers and the great variety and concentration of risks in this sector.