The code has been developed in response to long standing concerns about the impact of shift work and extended hours on hospital doctors, particularly junior doctors. The risks that fatigue and sleep deprivation create for both the individual health and safety of the doctor and for the quality of care afforded to patients are addressed in this code.

The code is one part of a broader education and awareness program to change the current individual and organisational beliefs and culture that support working hours and patterns that would be considered unacceptable in most other industry sectors.

This code provides practical guidance on how to eliminate or minimise risks arising from the hazards associated with shift work and extended working hours.