Some electronics technicians work shifts, including weekends and holidays, to service equipment in computer centres, manufacturing plants, hospitals, and telephone companies operating around the clock. Shifts are generally assigned on the basis of seniority. Repairers may also be on call at any time to handle equipment failure. The work of most repairers involves lifting, reaching, stooping, crouching, and crawling. Adherence to safety precautions is essential to guard against work hazards such as minor burns and electrical shock.

Broadcast technicians generally work indoors in pleasant surroundings. However, those who broadcast from disaster areas or crime scenes may work under unfavourable conditions. Technicians doing maintenance may climb poles or antenna towers, while those setting up equipment do heavy lifting. Technicians in large broadcast stations and networks usually work a 40-hour week, but may occasionally work overtime, under great pressure to meet broadcast deadlines. Technicians in small stations routinely work more than 40 hours a week. Evening, weekend, and holiday work is usual, because most stations are on the air 18 to 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.