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Free policy template · Word

Shift Timing Policy

A shift timing policy sets out the shifts an organisation runs, how employees are rostered and rotated, handover rules, night-shift safeguards and how shift changes are requested. It is essential for 24x7 operations such as plants, BPOs, hospitals, warehouses and security services.

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Preview of the policy

[Highlighted] = fill in
[Company Logo][Company Name]

SHIFT TIMING POLICY

Company:
[Company Name]
Unit / Location:
[Work Location]
Effective Date:
[Date]

1. Purpose

To organise shift work in a way that ensures continuous operations, safety and fair treatment of employees.

2. Scope

Applies to all employees in departments operating in shifts, including [Production, Maintenance, Customer Support, Security].

3. Shift Schedule

ShiftStartEndMeal BreakApplicable Departments
General[09:00][17:30][30 mins][Admin, HR]
A (Morning)[06:00][14:00][30 mins][Production]
B (Evening)[14:00][22:00][30 mins][Production]
C (Night)[22:00][06:00][30 mins][Production, Security]

4. Rostering and Rotation

  1. Rosters are published by the shift in-charge at least [No.] days before the start of the cycle.
  2. Shifts rotate [weekly/fortnightly]. Each employee gets a minimum rest of [No.] hours between two shifts.
  3. Weekly off is shown on the roster for every employee.

5. Reporting and Handover

  1. Report [10] minutes before shift start for handover.
  2. Outgoing employees must not leave until relieved or until the supervisor permits.
  3. Handover details (machine status, pending calls, incidents) are recorded in the shift log.

6. Night Shift

Night shift deployment follows applicable law. Where required, written consent is taken, company transport is arranged for drop/pick-up, and security is present at the premises.

7. Shift Allowance

Eligible employees receive shift/night allowance as per the company's Compensation Policy.

8. Shift Change and Swap

Employees may request a change or swap using the Shift Change Request Form at least [No.] days in advance. Swaps need the supervisor's approval and must not breach rest rules.

9. Safety

Plant employees must wear prescribed PPE and follow plant rules in every shift. Fatigue or illness during a shift must be reported immediately.

10. Non-compliance and Review

Unauthorised shift changes or leaving before relief may be dealt with under the disciplinary procedure after hearing the employee. HR will review this policy annually.

Approved by
[Authorised Signatory]
[Plant Head / Operations Head]

What this template includes

  • Shift table with timings – A, B, C and general shift
  • Rotation frequency – fairness and health
  • Minimum rest between shifts – avoids back-to-back shifts
  • Handover procedure – safety and continuity
  • Night-shift safeguards – transport, consent, security
  • Shift allowance reference – as per company policy
  • Swap and change process – controlled flexibility

When to use it

  • Starting a second or third shift
  • Introducing rotational shifts for a team
  • Setting night-shift transport and safety rules
  • Formalising shift allowance and swap procedures

How to customise this template

  1. 1Replace the shift table with your actual shifts
  2. 2Set rotation (weekly, fortnightly, monthly)
  3. 3Add plant-specific safety and PPE rules for manufacturing
  4. 4Insert the shift allowance policy reference, if any

HR tips

  • Publish rosters well in advance
  • Avoid rotating people from night to morning shift without rest
  • Record handovers in a log for safety-critical roles
  • Take consent and arrange transport where required for women on night shift

This template is a starting point. Review it against applicable labour laws, state Shops & Establishments or Factories rules, your standing orders and the factory, shops or state rules on shift work and night work, and consult a legal adviser where needed.

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Frequently asked questions

How often should shifts be rotated?+

Weekly or fortnightly rotation is common. Choose a pattern that gives adequate rest when moving between shifts and publish it in advance.

Is shift allowance mandatory?+

Shift allowance is usually a company or settlement benefit rather than a universal legal requirement. If you pay it, define eligibility and amount in policy.

What safety measures are needed for night shifts?+

Typically secure transport, adequate lighting and security at premises, and consent where the law requires it for women employees.