Öövahetus

**Öövahetus** (Estonian for "night shift change") refers to the practice of alternating between day and night shifts in work schedules, commonly used in industries such as healthcare, manufacturing, transportation, and customer service. This system allows businesses to operate continuously, ensuring round-the-clock service or production. Employees typically work fixed night shifts, followed by a period of rest before transitioning to a day shift or vice versa, depending on organizational needs.

The concept is particularly prevalent in sectors where 24/7 operations are essential, such as hospitals, call centers, and factories. In Estonia, as in many other countries, night shifts often involve working between 10 PM and 6 AM, though exact hours may vary by employer. Employees on night shifts often face challenges related to sleep disruption, circadian rhythm disturbances, and potential long-term health effects, including increased risks of cardiovascular issues and metabolic disorders.

Öövahetus schedules are designed to balance workload distribution among staff while accommodating personal and family commitments. Some workplaces implement gradual transitions between shifts to minimize disruptions, though abrupt changes can still occur depending on operational demands. Employers may offer financial incentives, such as higher pay rates for night work, to compensate for the inconvenience. Additionally, policies like flexible rest periods and health monitoring are sometimes provided to support workers in managing the physical and mental toll of irregular schedules.