Double shift
Workforce Management Glossary
Double shift
What is a double shift?
When an employee works two consecutive shifts this is called a double shift. Typically, a double shift is worked within 24 hours and can include two back-to-back shifts or any additional hours worked outside the regular shift. It’s different from a split shift or flex schedule.
Are double shifts normal for some industries and roles?
Double shift and split shift workers are critical to the functioning of many essential industries and businesses. Without them, a lot of 24-hour essential services wouldn’t be able to operate. For example, medical professionals (particularly nurses and doctors) are often required to work double shifts – as are emergency service workers and first responders. If double shifts didn’t exist, supply chains would become chaotic within days.
What are the potential impacts of double shifts on employees and culture?
Even though double shifts are part of ‘business as usual’ for many sectors and employees, the extended hours can have negative effects. For employees, an increase in stress, difficulty achieving work-life balance, and an inability to maintain a healthy lifestyle and sleep schedule are just some of the possible consequences.
Regardless of their necessity, working double shifts can be life and death for those in specific jobs – if fatigue is not properly managed. Ensuring employees have enough rest between double shifts is crucial to prevent work health and safety, burnout, and cultural issues. Organisations also need a strong overtime policy to prevent these potential problems before they happen.
A robust workforce management system makes tracking and managing double shifts simple. Easily monitor employee time and attendance with Roubler’s online time clock software and timesheet app.