Accident Risk of Different Shift Systems – Simulation with the Ximes Risk Calculator

Abstract

Working time arrangements can affect the risk of injuries and accidents at work. To evaluate the risk associated with common shift schedules, five different schedules were analyzed and compared regarding their inherent accident risks, using the XIMES Risk Calculator. We included fast forward and slow backward rotated shift schedules, 12-hour-shift systems and long daily working hours. Results show elevated accident risks in all schedules compared to day work with 8-hour-shifts. However, different risks are estimated for each schedule both for the overall risk and maximum risks at day level. The short forward rotated system achieves the best results on both dimensions. These results can be used for risk assessment, as well as prevention through work hour optimization.