Rotating shifts refer to a work schedule where employees alternate between different shifts, such as day, evening, and night. This system is commonly used in industries like healthcare, manufacturing, and emergency services, where continuous coverage is necessary. The rotation can occur weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly, depending on the employer's needs.
The main purpose of rotating shifts is to ensure that all employees share the burden of less desirable hours, like night shifts. While this can help maintain fairness among staff, it may also lead to challenges such as disrupted sleep patterns and difficulty in maintaining a work-life balance.