e-Algerian Journal of Health & Research
Volume 2, Numéro 2, Pages 143-160
2026-04-26

Atypical Working Hours And Cumulative Occupational Risk Exposures: Distribution According To Occupational Groups In A Company Under Service Continuity Obligation In Algiers

Authors : Bacha Aichouche . Liani Nora .

Abstract

Background: Atypical working hours (AWH), including night shifts, weekends, and on-call duties, are increasingly prevalent in sectors with service continuity obligations. These rhythms cause circadian misalignment, impacting worker health. This study aims to assess the prevalence and distribution of AWH and associated occupational risk exposures among workers in a national company in Algiers. Methods: A cross-sectional epidemiological study was conducted in 2019 across six Occupational Medicine Centers. A stratified random sample of 600 workers was selected. Data were collected via a structured questionnaire regarding temporal organization and demographics. Occupational risk exposures were objectified through a concurrent work situation analysis. Five work rhythms were identified: Standard Schedule, Standard Schedule with Overtime, Day/Night-Weekend On-Call, Day/Weekend Work, and Night Shift Work. Occupational groups were classified using the International Standard Classification of Occupations "ISCO-08". Results: The prevalence of AWH was 69.17%, with 39.67% of workers exposed to night work. Significant heterogeneity was observed across professional groups (p < 0.001); Protective Services (ISCO-08 Major Group 5) showed the highest exposure (95%). A specific "Standard Schedule with Overtime" category emerged, revealing a hidden burden of frequent overtime (61% of workers in this category reported performing overtime "often"). On-call workers faced the highest unpredictability, intrusion into private life, and cumulative risk exposure. Night workers were significantly older than day workers (42.9 ± 7.77 years vs. 40 ± 8.14, p < 0.001). Conclusion: The study population exhibits high exposure to AWH, exceeding European averages. The study reveals a cumulative burden where atypical rhythms combine with higher physical and organizational risk exposures. The "invisible burden" of on-call duties and overtime necessitates an evolution in occupational health surveillance beyond the traditional focus on night shifts to include all dyssynchronous work rhythms and their associated risk profiles.

Keywords

Night work ; Shift work ; Overtime ; Temporal organization ; Weekend work ; Occupational risks