MP calls for delay in 45-hour workweek for hospital staff

Pulai MP Suhaizan Kaiat has urged the Health Ministry to postpone the implementation of a 45-hour workweek for hospital staff, citing concerns over the increased workload and its impact on their well-being.

The new policy is scheduled to take effect on Dec 1, 2024. 

Suhaizan said in a statement that the additional three hours of work per week would exacerbate the stress already faced by hospital staff, particularly nurses.

“Based on feedback from hospital staff, they are already overwhelmed with their current schedules. Adding three extra hours per week will only increase their burden,” he said. 

Last week, Senator Dr RA Lingeshwaran said that over 77,000 nurses will be affected by the directive, which would require them to work 45 hours a week, an increase from 42.

Lingeshwaran said the measure would not only affect the healthcare sector but also other critical sectors such as emergency services and security. 

In comparison, he said, office government workers are expected to work only 38 hours a week.

‘Breaks often impossible’

Suhaizan further highlighted complaints from many healthcare workers about workplace stress, with some even reporting accidents during their commutes due to exhaustion.

“There is no guarantee they will get adequate rest during these additional hours. In a hospital setting with limited staff and critically ill patients, breaks are often impossible,” Suhaizan explained.

He noted that the additional three hours weekly equates to 12 extra hours per month, equivalent to more than an additional workday.

This, he argued, would deprive hospital staff of valuable time with their families.

“The health minister has responded in Parliament, stating that the new regulation will be reviewed. I propose that the ministry issue a directive to delay this 45-hour workweek policy,” Suhaizan added. 

He also called on the ministry to focus on creating a supportive work environment to address burnout among healthcare workers, estimating that 60 percent of staff currently suffer from work-related fatigue.

“Hopefully, with this new directive, hospital staff can experience some relief,” Suhaizan concluded.

Suhaizan, who also chairs the Parliamentary Special Select Committee on Health, emphasised that the well-being of healthcare workers should be a top priority for the ministry.

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