12x36 schedule
On a 12x36 schedule you work a 12-hour shift and then have 36 hours off, so you work every other day. It is common in Brazil, especially in hospitals, security and building staff, with day and night teams.
| Crew | 1 | 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Crew A | D | |
| Crew B | N | |
| Crew C | D | |
| Crew D | N |
Cycle of 2 days, 4 crews, 42 hours a week on average. D = day shift, N = night shift, 24 = 24-hour shift.
How the 12x36 schedule works
- One 12-hour shift every two days.
- Crews A and C share the day shift on alternating days; crews B and D share the night shift.
- Your work days move through the week: some weeks you work 4 days, others 3.
- Whether 12x36 applies to your job depends on your employment contract or collective agreement.
Pros
- A full day and night off after every shift.
- Only 15 or so shifts a month.
- No switching between days and nights.
Cons
- 12-hour shifts every other day, including weekends and holidays.
- Every other weekend day is a work day.
- Night teams stay on nights.
Similar schedules
-
Panama
4 crews, 12-hour shifts, 2-2-3 rhythm, days and nights swap every two weeks.
42 hours a week on average
-
Pitman (2-2-3)
4 crews, 12-hour shifts, 2-2-3 rhythm on fixed days or nights.
42 hours a week on average
-
4 on 4 off, rotating days and nights
4 crews, four days, four off, four nights, four off.
42 hours a week on average
Other schedules: 24/48, 48/96, Kelly, 4/10 (four tens), 9/80
Frequently asked questions
- What is a 12x36 schedule?
- You work 12 hours and then rest for 36 hours, so you work every other day. With day and night teams, four teams cover the job around the clock.
- How many hours a week is 12x36?
- 42 hours a week on average: 3.5 shifts of 12 hours a week, alternating weeks of 36 and 48 hours.
- How do I put my 12x36 schedule in my phone calendar?
- Choose your team and the date of a shift you know, then download the file or subscribe. Every other day gets a timed 12-hour shift, for as long as you like.
Get your roster from a photo, PDF or screenshot instead
Not on a fixed rotation, or does your schedule come as a picture of the board or a PDF each month? Calendar Vision reads it and puts every shift in your calendar.