Flexible working hours are becoming more common in many companies around Australia. However, the effects of flexible working hours on employee health and wellbeing are unknown. A recent review was the first to look at the health and wellbeing effects of flexible working arrangements which favour the employee as well as those dictated by the employer.

Overall, the results of this study on employee health and wellbeing were positive. When employees had control over their shift patterns and opportunity for partial/early retirement, positive effects on health were observed for improved blood pressure and heart rate, improved mental health, increased sleep duration and improved quality of sleep, increased alertness and a higher self rated health status. Employees enjoying flexible working arrangements also reported improvements in wellbeing with a greater sense of co-worker support and sense of community. No negative health effects were observed.

 

Overall, the findings indicate that flexibility in working patterns that give the employee more choice or control is likely to have positive effects on health and wellbeing. However, a small number of studies were included in the review, so further research is needed.