Rostered days off: Overview, definition, and example
What are rostered days off?
Rostered days off (RDOs) refer to pre-scheduled days off that employees receive as part of a structured work arrangement. They are commonly used in industries with shift work or compressed workweeks, where employees work additional hours over a period to accumulate time off.
For example, in a workplace with a 40-hour workweek, an employee might work extra hours each day and then take a rostered day off every two weeks.
Why are rostered days off important?
Rostered days off help businesses balance operational needs while providing employees with structured rest periods. This system improves work-life balance, reduces fatigue, and ensures compliance with labor laws.
For businesses, clearly defining RDOs in employment contracts helps manage scheduling, avoid misunderstandings, and ensure that employees receive fair and predictable time off.
Understanding rostered days off through an example
A construction company implements an RDO system where employees work 8.5-hour shifts instead of 8-hour shifts. After 19 days, they accumulate enough extra hours to take the 20th day as a rostered day off. This arrangement ensures steady productivity while giving employees a structured break.
In another scenario, a healthcare facility uses RDOs to manage nurse rotations. Nurses work a compressed schedule, accumulating time off, which they take on a rotating basis. The employment contract specifies how RDOs are scheduled and whether they can be banked or exchanged for pay.
An example of a rostered days off clause
Here’s how this type of clause might appear in an employment contract:
“Employees working under a rostered days off system shall accrue additional hours as part of their standard work schedule. RDOs shall be scheduled in accordance with the Company’s operational needs and must be taken within the designated cycle. Unused RDOs may [be carried forward/forfeited/exchanged for pay] as outlined in this Agreement.”
Conclusion
Rostered days off provide employees with structured time off while allowing businesses to maintain productivity. A well-defined RDO clause in employment agreements ensures clarity, compliance with labor laws, and fair scheduling practices, benefiting both employers and employees.
This article contains general legal information and does not contain legal advice. Cobrief is not a law firm or a substitute for an attorney or law firm. The law is complex and changes often. For legal advice, please ask a lawyer.