The relationship between hard work and economic growth is well understood. Strengthening a country's economy often requires the active participation of the working class, making their contributions indispensable. However, recent trends reveal alarming consequences of excessive work pressure, as evidenced by the tragic death of a young employee, which has drawn attention to the toll that overwork can take on an individual’s health.
While work is undoubtedly important, it should not come at the cost of an employee's life or their long-term health. A recent report has raised concerns by revealing that working beyond a certain threshold—specifically, more than 55 hours per week—can significantly increase the risk of death. Let’s delve into this growing issue.
Alarming Findings from Global Studies
A study conducted three years ago by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Labor Organization (ILO) highlights the dangers of long working hours. The study found that employees working 55 hours or more per week are at a considerably higher risk of death compared to those working the standard 35 to 40 hours. The findings are particularly concerning in the context of India, where the situation is becoming more critical than in neighboring countries like China.
According to statistics, India is experiencing a significant number of deaths due to overwork, second only to Bhutan, where 61.3% of the workforce suffers from similar conditions. The continuous long hours are taking a severe toll on employees’ health, with stress-related conditions on the rise.
Younger Employees Face the Heaviest Burden
India has a predominantly young workforce, and this demographic is being heavily exploited. Junior employees are being forced to work longer hours compared to their senior counterparts. This excessive workload may lead to higher earnings initially, but without relief or breaks, it is the employees who suffer the most. Overwork decreases productivity, affects mental and physical well-being, and can lead to early burnout.
Most affected sectors are IT and communication
The most affected sectors are those in information technology and communication, where employees work an average of 57.5 hours per week—9 hours longer than the international standard. A study of 20 sectors reveals that in 16 of them, employees are working 50 hours or more weekly. Younger employees aged 20 to 30 are working the longest hours, averaging 58 hours per week. By their mid-30s, this drops slightly to 57 hours. However, by the time they reach 50, the number of hours worked reduces to an average of 53 hours per week.
Connection Between Workload and Economic Growth
There is a common belief that hard work contributes to the growth of a country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). However, the question arises—does increasing the workload directly boost the GDP? According to experts, the answer is not straightforward. In India, one hour of work contributes approximately $8 (around ₹650) to the GDP. While this suggests that longer hours could increase earnings, it only holds true if workers remain productive. The reality, however, is that prolonged working hours often lead to reduced productivity.
Exhausted employees are less efficient, which diminishes the overall benefit of extended work hours. Overwork leads to stress, health issues, and a decline in job performance, making it a counterproductive approach in the long term.
The Need for a Healthier Work Environment
Given the current situation, it is evident that the issue of excessive workload needs to be addressed. Reducing the workload or providing more balanced working hours could prevent the loss of capable and hardworking employees. Rather than being burdened with unrealistic expectations, employees should be encouraged and supported to maintain both their work ethic and their health. A healthy and motivated workforce is ultimately more beneficial to the economy than a fatigued and overworked one.
Encouraging employees to take care of their health and providing reasonable working conditions will result in a more sustainable and productive workforce, which is essential for the long-term economic prosperity of the country.
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