The Suva City Council (SCC) allocates approximately $1.5 to $2 million each year on overtime for its staff, as noted by SCC Chair Tevita Boseiwaqa. With around 80 employees affected by this expenditure, Boseiwaqa emphasized the importance of maintaining a balance between workload demands and employee health to boost productivity.
An audit conducted earlier in the year revealed critical insights into managing employee well-being. Boseiwaqa remarked, “You can’t overwork them,” highlighting the direct correlation between excessive work hours and diminished performance. In response, the council is collaborating with local youth programs to ensure that staff members achieve a healthy work-life balance, aiming to prevent overtime from negatively impacting their health.
Measures are being taken to control overtime while preserving service efficiency and delivery. Some shifts, particularly the early morning ones from 8 AM to 2 AM, have been identified as key contributors to rising overtime costs. According to Boseiwaqa, one department alone exceeded $200,000 in overtime expenses.
The council is actively working to manage overtime rather than eliminate it entirely, which allows staff to maintain quality time at home, reduce stress levels, and sustain high productivity. Early indications suggest that these strategic changes are positively impacting employee well-being and effectiveness in the workplace.
This story sheds light on the growing recognition of employee health in the workplace, and the proactive approach by the SCC is commendable. Addressing burnout and promoting a balanced approach to work could lead to a healthier and more productive community, highlighting the potential for positive change in workplace culture.
In summary, the Suva City Council recognizes the need to balance overtime spending with employee well-being, implementing measures that aim to enhance productivity and promote healthier work conditions.
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