Glossary
3 min read
12-hour shifts: everything you need to know
Alex Francis
Nov 29, 2024
Everything you need to know
Curious about 12-hour shifts and how they work? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. This guide explains what a 12-hour shift is, how it’s used in different industries and gives a few tips on how to make 12-hour shifts work for you and your team.
What is a 12-hour shift?
A 12-hour shift is a work schedule where employees work for, believe it or not, 12 consecutive hours in one day. These shifts are common in industries like healthcare, hospitality, manufacturing and emergency services, where round-the-clock coverage is needed.
Typically, 12-hour shifts are part of rotating schedules, where employees work fewer days per week or alternate between day and night shifts. For instance, some employees might work 12 hours a day for three or four days and then have several days off.
Why use 12-hour shifts?
12-hour shifts help businesses ensure seamless operations while giving employees more extended breaks between work periods. Here’s why they’re popular:
24/7 coverage
Ideal for industries that require continuous operation.
Reduced commuting time
Fewer workdays mean less time spent traveling to and from work.
Work/life balance
Longer breaks between shifts provide employees with more days off in a row.
Challenges of 12-hour shifts
While 12-hour shifts have benefits, they also come with challenges:
Fatigue
Long hours can lead to tiredness, affecting productivity and safety.
Work/life impact
While 12-hour shifts can offer greater work/life balance for some team members, long shifts may interfere with others’ family time or personal commitments.
Health concerns
Prolonged work periods can affect physical and mental wellbeing.
Balancing the needs of the business with team member wellbeing is critical. Offering regular breaks, adequate recovery time between shifts and open communication can help address these challenges.
Tips for managing 12-hour shifts
Schedule wisely
Alternate between day and night shifts gradually to reduce burnout.
Encourage self-care
Support healthy habits like proper sleep, hydration, and nutrition.
Check in with employees
Regular feedback helps you address concerns and make improvements.
Who uses 12-hour shifts?
Industries like hospitality, healthcare, manufacturing and emergency services rely on 12-hour shifts to keep operating around the clock. For example, hotel night auditors or healthcare workers in 24-hour facilities often work these shifts.
Get your shifts together
Simplify your scheduling with Planday. Create 12-hour shift plans that work for everyone and manage your team effortlessly.
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