Split shifts: Overview, definition, and example
What are split shifts?
A split shift is a work schedule in which an employee’s shift is divided into two or more separate work periods in a single day, with an extended unpaid break in between. Employers use split shifts in industries that have peak business hours at different times of the day, such as restaurants, retail, and transportation.
For example, a restaurant employee might work from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM for the lunch rush, take a long break, and return from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM for the dinner rush.
Why are split shifts important?
Split shifts allow businesses to match employee work hours with demand, helping to control labor costs while ensuring adequate staffing during busy times. However, split shifts can also affect employees' work-life balance, transportation costs, and energy levels, making it important for employers to use them fairly.
Many labor laws regulate split shifts to protect employees. In some jurisdictions, employers must provide additional compensation if an employee works a split shift. Employers should check local labor laws to ensure compliance.
Understanding split shifts through an example
Imagine a small café that experiences high customer traffic in the morning and evening but slow business in the afternoon. The owner schedules baristas to work from 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM, take a long break, and return from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. This ensures the café is properly staffed during peak hours without unnecessary labor costs during the slow period.
In another case, a delivery service schedules drivers for two shifts—one in the morning to handle breakfast orders and another in the evening for dinner deliveries. A split shift allows the company to optimize staffing while meeting customer demand efficiently.
An example of a split shifts clause
Here’s how a split shifts clause might appear in an employment agreement:
“The Employee agrees to work a split shift schedule as required by the Employer, consisting of two or more work periods in a single workday. The Employer shall ensure compliance with applicable labor laws, including any required additional compensation for split shifts.”
Conclusion
Split shifts help businesses manage staffing efficiently while aligning employee hours with peak demand. However, they must be implemented fairly, following labor laws to ensure employees are compensated appropriately. Employers and employees should clearly define split shift expectations in employment agreements to avoid misunderstandings and ensure compliance.
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.