j0436529[1] I’m curious about the various shift work schedules that exist out there. I have heard of several. If this entry accomplishes it’s goal, a discussion will be generated around all the varieties, with pros and cons. There are bound to be differences in how they affect a persons health, both body and mind. There is also family life to be considered. Which is best/worst for meeting the needs of the family? Which is best when meeting the needs of the worker?

When I first started working shift work, we had three eight hour shifts per day. I worked seven day shifts with four days off, seven graveyard shifts with two days off, then ended the rotation with seven swing shifts with one day off. When the shift rotation was explained to me during my interview for the job, the four days off were described as a “mini vacation each month”. Not a bad description, but it failed to address the problem of compound fatigue. You know, the body shots that take their toll a little at a time and eventually put you on the matt.

The swing shift was the worst for me. My body had a very hard time recovering from the swing shift. I tended to stay up very late, and would sleep until time to go to work. Family life was non-existent when I worked swing shift. I can see how a single person could thrive, but it just is not for me.

After a couple of years of vigorous debate, a large majority at the plant finally voted to try the 4 on 4 off shift that was popular at some plants. This scheme calls for twelve hour shifts of days and graveyards, in sets of four. We have on call periods following the day shift set. I find this to be much easier on the body. The down side is I often work twelve on and four off. I have to say I prefer the extra days worked to cover vacancies over working twelve and sixteen hour shifts for seven days. Overall, I see more of the family, and my health “feels” better.

Chime in. What shift work scheme do you work? How does it work? What makes it good, and what makes it bad. Is it easy on the body, or does it take a toll on your health?