Why Hongkongers are so fed up with work

Hong Kong is known to be one of the world's hardest working cities, with workers putting in a world-leading 50 hours of work per week on average.

While there is no question that the hard work has driven the city to be one of the more prosperous regions in Asia, working so hard comes at a cost: hard workers translate to workers under pressure.

The Hong Kong Federation of Trade Unions's Occupational Safety and Health Association interviewed 773 local workers last year about the challenges they faced at work, and up to 80% of respondents felt they were under huge pressure at work, the Oriental Daily reports.

Middle class workers earning more than HK$40,ooo a month are under the most pressure, with up to 90% reported they felt pressured at work.

Extended working hours remain a top concern for local workers. 30% worked overtime for one to four hours per week, while 14% of respondents put in more than 17 hours of overtime a week.

The number of working hours is a crucial factor in frustrating employees. 80% of those working 45 to 48 hours a week felt they are under enormous pressure, and the number rises to 88% for employees who are putting in more than 52 hours a week.

Besides long hours, poor staff morale, stress from making decisions for the organisation, and being asked to conduct duties outside one's job description are the major sources of pressure for local workers.

Workers also reported being unfairly treated by an employer adds to the work pressure they experience.  Many reported they were asked to achieve demanding goals without the necessary manpower, equipment, and information.

Lack of job security is another cause of stress for the local working class, with up to 40% of respondents saying they are worried about losing their jobs.

The study clearly shows that a large number of local employees are suffering at work. The association has called for the government to introduce standard working hours and enhance the policies on compensation to protect the benefits of workers.

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