What is a 4 on 3 off shift pattern? (2024)

FAQs

What is a 4 on 3 off shift pattern? ›

Also known as a 4-3 shift pattern, this term refers to when staff work four days in a row, then have three days off, for a period of three weeks. Although staff work fewer days per week, 4-3 shifts are typically 10 hours long rather than eight, so staff still work 40 hours per week.

The 4 on 3 off shift pattern usually involves 6 teams that work 4 days and then get 3 off days. This is repeated weekly, however, the shifts in the second (swing) and third (night) week have different start and ending times. Typically, a 3 week cycle consists of 12 10-hour shifts.

A 4 on 3 off shift pattern refers to a work schedule where employees are on duty for four consecutive days, followed by three consecutive days of rest. This cycle is designed to provide a balance between work and personal time, allowing for longer, uninterrupted breaks.

Employee Well-Being

Additionally, the schedule ensures three consecutive weekends off during an eight-week cycle, making shift work more appealing to those with family commitments.

The three-shift system adds a night shift to the standard two-shift pattern, giving three rotating 8-hour shifts to provide 24-hour cover where needed. These shifts typically run from 6am-2pm, 2pm-10pm and 10pm-6am, usually over a period of 5 or 6 days.

Example of a 4-on-4 off-shift schedule

Employees work from Monday to Thursday, starting each shift at 8 AM and finishing at 8 PM for day shifts. For night shifts, they might start at 8 PM and finish at 8 AM. After these four days, employees get four days off.

For the most people, rotating forward through day, afternoon and night shift is better than backwards (night, afternoon then day). The frequency of rotation is also controversial. Some people advocate prolonged rotation, such as two to three weeks. Others advocate short rotations of two to three days.

With the 4 on 4 off shift pattern you will be working roughly: 3.5 shifts per week (half of 7 days) 15 shifts per month (half of 30 days) 182.5 shifts per year (half of 365 days)

What is the 6 on 3 off shift pattern? ›

The 6 on 3 off shift pattern is a work schedule where employees work for six consecutive days, followed by three days off. This pattern is utilized either for 12-hour or 8-hour shifts, catering to industries that require round-the-clock operations, such as healthcare or law enforcement.

The 4 on 2 off shift pattern is a work schedule that is gaining popularity in many industries. In this system, employees work four consecutive days and then have two days off. This type of schedule can be found in various sectors, including healthcare, emergency services, and manufacturing.

The 4 on, 4 off, 10-hour shift schedule is a unique work arrangement that spans over a period where employees work for four consecutive days followed by a fixed four-day break, and each workday involves a 10-hour shift.

The first shift in a 24-hour facility typically takes place from about 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. The second shift comes in from 4 p.m. until midnight and the third shift takes over from midnight to 8 a.m. Some employees maintain the same shift hours at all times.

The 3 on 3 off shift pattern offers a consistent work rhythm for employees, providing a balance between work days and rest days with 12-hour shifts to ensure 24-hour coverage.

These three shifts typically last 8 hours and are called, 1st, 2nd, and 3rd shift. 1st Shift usually takes place between the hours of 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. 2nd Shift is worked between 5 p.m. and 1 a.m. 3rd Shift typically takes place between the hours of 12 a.m. and 8 a.m.

The 4 on, 2 off, 10-hour shift schedule has emerged as a popular alternative to traditional 9-5 work patterns. This scheduling framework typically involves employees working four consecutive 10-hour days, followed by a two-day break.

In the realm of shift work, the 5 on 3 off shift pattern is distinguished by employees working five consecutive days followed by three days off. This schedule is prevalent across various industries that require consistent, round-the-clock operations and aim to maximize employee rest periods.

With the 4 on 4 off shift pattern you will be working roughly: 3.5 shifts per week (half of 7 days) 15 shifts per month (half of 30 days) 182.5 shifts per year (half of 365 days)