How this 4 Days On, 4 Days Off Shift Pattern works
Four day shifts, four rest days, four night shifts, then four rest days: a repeating 16-day rotation.
The full 16-day repeating cycle
8 working shifts and 8 rest days per 16-day cycle. Hours depend on the shift length set by your employer. This is an individual employee's repeating sequence, not a guarantee of full-team 24/7 coverage.
This guide uses the 16-day day/night version of 4 on 4 off. The separate 2-2-4 guide covers two days, two nights and four off.
The rotation shown is the exact sequence described for this guide. Names and schedules can vary between employers; confirm against your roster.
Frequently asked questions
How many days are in this shift rotation?
The complete repeating sequence has 16 days, with 8 scheduled work shifts and 8 days off.
Can I set up this rotation in ShiftShow?
Yes. Use Smart Shift Builder to enter each day-shift, night-shift and rest-day block, then verify the calendar against your employer's roster and starting date.
Does the pattern specify the number of hours per shift?
No. The diagram shows shift types and rest days. Set the actual start times and shift duration used at your workplace.
The rotating four-on/four-off schedule
With four consecutive day shifts followed by four days off, then four night shifts followed by four days off, the complete day/night sequence takes 16 days. At 12 hours per shift, that is 8 working shifts or 96 hours per 16-day cycle, equivalent to 42 hours per seven days on average. The shift length is an example, not an assumption about every workplace. This pattern is not 2-2-4: that schedule switches from days to nights after only two shifts.
Further reading: Soon: 4-on-4-off shift pattern
Build the rotation in ShiftShow
Open Smart Shift Builder, choose your start date, and enter the sequence of day shifts, night shifts and days off shown above. Check it against your workplace roster before saving.
Once configured, use your colour-coded calendar to plan ahead, track overtime and manage leave.
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