Study finds HK workers hard at work even during vacations

17.07.2012
A recent study of workers has revealed that workaholics are growing in numbers, to the point that they can't turn off their netbooks or smartphones even while they are vacationing.

A workplace provider warned that this can lead to job stress and might affect employee productivity in the long run.

Regus, which provides flexible workplaces, recently released the Hong Kong segment of its global study of work habits of workaholics, defined as those who can't take time off from work even during vacations.

The study revealed that over half, or 56 percent, of Hong Kong workers are going to fit three hours of work each day even while they are on vacation. Some so-called "serious workaholics" or 26 percent of Hong Kong workers will even work more than three hours each day on vacation.

"Developments in technology mean that workers are always connected and the temptation to check e-mails and complete any tasks that follow on from them is easy to succumb to," said Hans Leijten, vice-president, East Asia, Regus. "With smart phones, netbooks and internet connections everywhere, it has become very difficult to really switch off, but taking a break and devoting time to rest, family and friends is vital to staying healthy.