48/96 schedule
On the 48/96 schedule each of three platoons works 48 hours in a row (two 24-hour shifts) and then has 96 hours, or four days, off. The cycle is 6 days and averages 56 hours a week, the same as 24/48.
| Crew | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Crew A | 24 | 24 | ||||
| Crew B | 24 | 24 | ||||
| Crew C | 24 | 24 |
Cycle of 6 days, 3 crews, 56 hours a week on average. D = day shift, N = night shift, 24 = 24-hour shift.
How the 48/96 schedule works
- Platoon A works days 1 and 2, B days 3 and 4, C days 5 and 6.
- Each work block is two 24-hour shifts back to back.
- Four days off after every block.
- The file has one event per 24-hour shift, so a block shows as two.
Pros
- Four days off at a time.
- Half as many trips to the station as 24/48.
- The same 56 hours a week as 24/48.
Cons
- 48 hours on duty in a row.
- Fatigue near the end of the second shift.
- Missed events last two days instead of one.
Similar schedules
-
Kelly
3 platoons, 24-hour shifts, three shifts in five days then four days off.
56 hours a week on average
Other schedules: DuPont, Panama, Pitman (2-2-3), 4 on 4 off, 12x36, 4/10 (four tens), 9/80
Frequently asked questions
- What is a 48/96 schedule?
- A fire department schedule for three platoons: 48 hours on duty, then 96 hours off, repeating every 6 days.
- How many hours a week is 48/96?
- 56 hours a week on average, the same as 24/48.
- Is 48/96 better than 24/48?
- Both average 56 hours. 48/96 gives longer breaks and fewer commutes; 24/48 gives shorter shifts. Departments that switch usually cite commuting and time off.
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