When evaluating the different patrol schedules that law enforcement agencies (that use PowerTime) use, we evaluated which ones were the most popular overall.
It turns out, that 12-hour schedules were the most commonly used. Followed by 10-hour and lastly 8-hour.
There were a handful of departments that mixed 8, 10, and12-hour shifts as well. Or some did 8.5-hour shifts, 10.5-hour shifts, and different variations like that.
However, we were evaluating the most common patterns. Therefore, we just picked out the 3 main shift lengths: 8, 10, and 12 hours.
While we do not create new schedules for departments, we do set up a lot of current schedules in our law enforcement scheduling software during the initial launch.
But below you will find 4 of the most popular patrol schedules used! Check it out...
A) [2 on 3 off] [2 on 2 off] [3 on 2 off] - 12 hour
This 12-hour police shift schedule example is a popular choice because officers receive every other weekend off.
To see a full article explaining this rotation click here.
B) [4 on 3 off] - 10 hour
This is a simple rotation with favorable 10-hour shifts.
Not too long and not too short.
To view an article explaining this rotation further, click here.
C) [4 on 3 off] [ 3 on 4 off] and [3 on 3 off] [ 4 on 4 off] - 12 hour
This 12-hour shift schedule example is popular on the west coast.
If you would like to see the details of how it works, click here.
D) [5 on 2 off] - 8 hour
This is the most widely known 8-hour shift schedule.
It is simple and easy to use.
Here is an article that explains the [5 on 2 off] 8 hour shift schedule in more detail.
Law enforcement schedules vary from department to department but there are definitely trends and examples that are beneficial to know about.
Whether you need 8-hour shifts or 12-hour shifts there are options!
Don't settle, find the most efficient and effective schedule to fit your department's needs.
Need a system to handle your complex rotations?
PowerTime will handle your 24x7 personnel schedules with ease.
The software will allow you to manage things like:
- Time Off
- Overtime
- Shift trades
- Minimum Staffing
- Open Shifts
Check out all of the features in our law enforcement scheduling software today!
