What it measures
Dimension: Time
This indicator measures the percentage of Canadians working long hours at their main job (more than 50 hours per week). Overall, there has been a decline in the proportion of Canadians working over 50 hours per week from 14.6% in 1994 to 8.7% in 2014. In general, men are more likely than women to work long hours for pay.
Why this matters
Working long hours is associated with increased health risks for workers both on the job and outside of work. More time spent working in physically demanding jobs, for example, can increase fatigue and related injury rates. Also, since Canadians who work long hours are frequently away from their homes, there may be difficulties related to maintaining personal relationships, mental health, and supporting the social and emotional wellbeing of their children. Consequently, lower proportions of Canadians working long hours is an indicator of better wellbeing within the population.