Yötyön

Yötyö refers to work performed during the night, outside ordinary daytime hours. The specific night period and the classification of a shift as night work are defined by national laws and, where applicable, by collective agreements in a given sector. In Finland, night work is typically subject to special rules within the employment framework and working time legislation, with variations across industries. Common features include requirements for health monitoring, minimum rest between shifts, and, depending on the agreement, additional compensation or allowances for night shifts.

Health and safety considerations are central to the regulation of yötyö. Night work can disrupt sleep, circadian rhythm, and overall well-being, potentially increasing fatigue and health risks. Employers are generally required to perform risk assessments related to night work and to implement measures to mitigate fatigue, such as scheduling considerations, adequate breaks, and access to healthcare services.

Economy and workforce implications: The practice supports 24/7 services in sectors such as healthcare, transport, manufacturing, and hospitality. While yötyö enables continuous operation and efficiency, it also poses challenges for workers’ social life and health, which policies often address through protections and compensation.