Shift work is not unique to pharmaceutical manufacturing (in fact, it is most prevalent in service occupations), but I have become somewhat familiar with it through my work. Full scale chemical reactions and fermentations have cycle times of hours, days, or even months, requiring employees to work around the clock. Even those of us who have pulled an "all-nighter" preparing for an exam know how severely this sort of activity can disrupt your life in terms of energy level, focus, etc.
Turns out that Shift Work Disorder (SWD), which results in excessive sleepiness during the day, is treatable by a host of prescription medications, such as Provigil and Nuvigil.
It would be unrealistic to say that we should eliminate shift work - let's be honest, it makes the economy go 'round. However, I wonder what more natural methods and strategies we could employ to decrease the risk of developing SWD or other serious health disorders. For instance, WebMD suggests controlling light, sound, and temperature during sleep, as well as....get this...taking care of yourself.
I think it's tough to fight circadian rhythm. Think if you were travelling to substantially different time zones twice every week. I'm not a fan of tricking your body with substances, particularly ones that are addictive and controlled and so advocate for more healthy efforts:
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2) Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate - and not with coffee or caffeinated tea either. At least 8 8oz servings per day.
3) Exercise, in a routine that is at least 60% aerobic and 40% strength.
4) Have a cool, dark place to sleep and use light to trick your body.
5) Get the support of your family - you can't burn the candle at both ends - can't be doing softball games during your "night"
6) Don't get addicted to the money. Shift work usually pays a premium - remember that premium has a cost and it's lifestyle.
7) Invest mental energy. Challenging problems will work the brain and force sleep. Boring work. Bored brain. Less likely to sleep
8) Finally - constantly work with the employer to perform operations improvement to reduce the need for shift work.