Working the Night Shift

Hey all,
I work 3rd shift, and I notice some spells/rituals call for leaving a candle burning or purifying something by setting it out at sunrise for one hour, or any number of such things. Since I am at work overnight and can't always coincide a ritual or need for a spell on my day off, I miss sunrises and don't dare leave a candle burn unattended. Has anyone found any compromises or alternatives?