What Are Shift Patterns?
A shift pattern is a sequence of work and rest days that employees are required to follow. Shift patterns usually involve a varying set of shifts—like day, evening, morning, and night shifts. This means that professionals will be working different times each work period, rotating shifts following a predetermined order.
What is the purpose of shift patterns?
Shift patterns ensure that you can run your business 24/7 without requiring any employee to work a taxing shift for a prolonged period. Note that working these shifts, like a night shift, for an extended period of time can affect both mental and physical health negatively. Other adverse effects of such shifts include a poor work-life balance and burnout.
What are some examples of popular shift patterns?
The most popular shift pattern is the 5-2 schedule. This is the standard working schedule across the world. However, it’s not typically used in businesses that need to operate around the clock. Examples of shift patterns better suited for 24/7 operation include:
- 2-2-3 schedule: 2 days of work, 2 days of rest, 3 days of work
- 4-3-3-4 schedule: 4 days of work, 3 days off, 3 days of work, 4 days off
- DuPont schedule: 4 day shifts, 4 days off, 4 night shifts, 3 days off, 3 day shifts, 1 day off, 3 night shifts, 3 days off
