American Economic Journal:
Applied Economics
ISSN 1945-7782 (Print) | ISSN 1945-7790 (Online)
The Effect of Shift Structure on Performance
American Economic Journal: Applied Economics
vol. 4,
no. 2, April 2012
(pp. 219–46)
Abstract
The effect of shift structure on worker performance and productivity is of increasing interest to firms and regulatory bodies. Using approximately 743,000 emergency medical incidents attended by 2,381 paramedics in Mississippi, we evaluate the extent that paramedics' performance toward the end of shifts is impacted by shift length. We find evidence that performance deteriorates toward the end of long shifts, and argue that fatigue is the mediating factor. Our calculations imply that such deterioration may result in a 0.76 percent increase in 30-day mortality. These findings have implications for workforce organization, calling attention to regulation designed to limit extended work hours. (JEL J22, J24, J28, J45, M12)Citation
Brachet, Tanguy, Guy David, and Andrea M. Drechsler. 2012. "The Effect of Shift Structure on Performance." American Economic Journal: Applied Economics, 4 (2): 219–46. DOI: 10.1257/app.4.2.219Additional Materials
JEL Classification
- J22 Time Allocation and Labor Supply
- J24 Human Capital; Skills; Occupational Choice; Labor Productivity
- J28 Safety; Job Satisfaction; Related Public Policy
- J45 Public Sector Labor Markets
- M12 Personnel Management; Executive Compensation
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