Are you contemplating a shift schedule change in your organization? Whether you're seeking to increase productivity, reduce costs, or improve employee satisfaction, the advantages of 12-hour shifts are worth considering. As the demand for efficiency grows, many managers and their teams are evaluating alternative scheduling systems, and the 12-hour shift schedule is becoming increasingly popular across various industries.

While no shift system is perfect, the 12-hour shift offers a host of benefits that can positively impact both operational performance and employee well-being.

Here are eight major advantages of switching to 12-hour shifts that may help guide your decision:

1 - Increased Productivity and Reduced Errors

One of the primary advantages of 12-hour shifts is the reduction in shift turnovers. With only two shift changes per day (compared to three in an 8-hour schedule), there are fewer opportunities for miscommunications, errors, or production disruptions. Fewer handoffs mean a more continuous workflow, leading to higher productivity and fewer mistakes. This uninterrupted operation can also result in fewer accidents, as there’s less room for error during critical handovers.

2 - Enhanced Continuity and Accountability

A key benefit of the 12-hour shift system is the continuity it provides. Typically, crew A will hand over operations to crew B at night, and then crew B will pass it back to crew A the next morning. This means no third crew is involved, which eliminates the potential for issues to be "passed down the line" and ignored. Teams feel more responsible for identifying and fixing problems before the next crew takes over, enhancing both accountability and efficiency.

3 - Reduced Adaptation Time

Workers often need time to adjust when starting a shift—whether it's organizing tools or setting up equipment. On an 8-hour shift, many employees report that by the time they hit their stride, the shift is already nearing its end. One of the advantages of 12-hour shifts is that employees have more time to get "in the groove" and maintain peak productivity for longer periods, without the disruption of a shift change after just eight hours. As a result, workers are often more satisfied and productive during longer shifts.

4 - Higher Project Completion Rates

Extended 12-hour shifts allow for the completion of longer tasks and projects within a single shift. In industries where tasks such as maintenance or equipment servicing require significant preparation (e.g., lock-out/tag-out procedures), longer shifts provide the opportunity to complete these tasks without needing to hand them over to another team mid-task. This reduces the downtime caused by shift changeovers and allows more projects to be completed in less time.

5 - Reduced Absenteeism

Employees working 12-hour shifts may be less likely to take time off compared to those on 8-hour schedules. Why is this? For starters, 12-hour shifts provide more days off than an 8-hour shift (in a classic 4-crew system, you work 50% and are off 50% of the days each year). This means if you get sick, it’s less likely to happen on a workday when you work a 12-hour shifts. Additionally, taking a day off means missing a full 12-hour shift, which can result in a noticeable loss in pay and a reduction in paid time off. Furthermore, employees may feel more accountable to their team, knowing that their absence could mean someone else has to work a full 12-hour shift to cover for them.

6 - Lower Attrition and Turnover

One of the most compelling advantages of 12-hour shifts is the significant reduction in employee turnover. Workers appreciate the increased number of days off, including more weekends. In fact, employees on 12-hour shifts enjoy 91 fewer shifts per year than those on 8-hour schedules and have double the number of weekends off. A survey of employees in the chemical industry found that 96.5% of those working 12-hour shifts expressed no interest in returning to an 8-hour schedule. This extended time off contributes to higher job satisfaction and retention.

7 - Improved Employee Morale

12-hour shifts are typically more popular among both employees and their families. The extended time off allows for better work-life balance, reducing stress and improving overall morale. With more weekends free, employees can spend quality time with their families, attend important events, and feel more in control of their personal time. A happier workforce often translates to increased productivity and loyalty to the company.

8 - More Focused and Dedicated Employees

During the three to four consecutive days that employees are on duty with 12-hour shifts, they tend to focus more on their jobs. Knowing they’ll have several days off to rest, employees are more likely to stay concentrated and avoid distractions during their working days. They also tend to avoid major social events or strenuous activities during their time off, ensuring they return to work well-rested and ready to perform. This heightened focus during workdays can lead to greater overall productivity.

Why Choose 12-Hour Shifts?

The advantages of 12-hour shifts have made them an increasingly popular choice for managers looking to improve operational efficiency and employee satisfaction. With fewer shift changes, better accountability, and increased employee retention, many industries are shifting toward this model. However, it’s essential to consider factors such as the type of work that is being done, and the preferences of your workforce before making a change.

By switching to 12-hour shifts, companies can create a more streamlined and effective work environment, leading to higher productivity, reduced absenteeism, and better morale. If you’re considering a shift schedule change, the benefits of 12-hour shifts could be the solution your organization needs.

If you're ready to explore the benefits of 12-hour shifts for your workplace, consult with scheduling experts to determine the best plan for your team and operational needs