Working shifts, how does that actually work in practice? And what are the advantages and disadvantages of irregular working hours? Many production companies, logistics centers, and technical facilities run at full capacity around the clock. As a result, shift work is a fixed part of the labor market.
Are you considering shift work, or wondering whether this schedule fits your lifestyle? In this article, we'll tell you everything you need to know about schedules, hours, allowances, and the pros and cons.
What exactly is shift work?
At many traditional companies, the working day ends around 5:00 PM. But in sectors such as manufacturing, engineering, and logistics, production never stops. To keep machines running and processes going 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, work is organized in shifts. This means staff are divided into groups (shifts) that alternate at fixed times.
The different types of shift work
Not every shift schedule is the same. Depending on the sector and type of company, a specific schedule is chosen. The most common shift patterns are:
- Two-shift system: In a standard two-shift schedule, you work an early shift one week and a late shift the next. You're usually off on weekends.
- Three-shift system (backward rotation): This is a common schedule in manufacturing. You work the early shift one week, the night shift the next, and the late shift in the final week. Here too, you're off on weekends.
- Four-shift system: This schedule is often used by companies that close one day a week, usually Sunday. The schedule rotates more intensively and can consist of, for example, 2 early, 2 late, and 2 night shifts, followed by a number of days off.
- Five-shift system: This involves continuous operation (24/7). You mainly see this in large production and factory halls. A typical schedule consists of 2 early shifts, 2 late shifts, 2 night shifts, followed by 4 days off. This creates a unique balance in free time!
Average working hours in shift work
The exact arrangement can vary by employer, but the traditional guideline hours for shifts look like this:
- Early shift: 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Late shift: 3:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Night shift: 11:00 PM – 7:00 AM
The advantages of working shifts
Working irregular hours may sound intense, but it comes with major advantages that many employees consciously choose for:
- Attractive shift allowance: Because you work outside regular office hours, you receive an extra allowance on top of your salary. This can significantly boost your net income!
- More free time at unusual moments: Thanks to a five-shift schedule, you regularly have four consecutive days off during the week. Perfect for running errands calmly, going to the gym when it's quiet, or spending time on your hobbies.
- No traffic stress: Because your shifts often start and end at unusual times (such as 7:00 AM or 3:00 PM), you effortlessly avoid the daily morning and evening rush hour.
- Perfect for early birds and night owls alike: Do you love sleeping in, or are you sharp right from the morning? There's always a shift that fits your personal rhythm.
The disadvantages of an irregular schedule
Of course, disrupting the regular day-and-night rhythm also has a downside. It's good to consider this in advance:
- Impact on your biological clock: Night shifts especially can be tough on your body. It takes discipline to sleep well during the day and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
- Less of a fixed routine: Because you switch shifts weekly, your social and household planning looks different every week.
- Combining it with family life: Do you have a family with young children? Then planning social commitments, sports clubs, or birthdays can sometimes be a challenge due to the alternating shifts.
Is shift work something for you?
Still wondering after reading this article whether shift work suits you? The best way to find out is to experience it! At Versado, we regularly have various vacancies available in production, logistics, and engineering that involve shift work.
Feel free to contact one of our branches in the region (Eersel, Tegelen, or Sittard) or take a direct look at our current job openings. We're happy to think along with you about the options that suit you best!
