6-day rotating shift pattern
What Is a 4 On 2 Off Schedule?
A 4 on 2 off schedule is a 6-day rotation of four work days and two days off, run by three crews.
How the 4 on 2 off rotation works
Each crew works four shifts in a row, then takes two days off, over a 6-day cycle. Three crews are staggered two days apart, so two crews are typically on duty while the third rests.
The 4 on 2 off schedule trades recovery time for coverage, which is why it shows up in retail, hospitality, and support teams where shifts are shorter. You can set each shift to 10 or 12 hours in the tool above.
| Crew | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A | D | D | D | D | O | O |
| B | O | O | D | D | D | D |
| C | D | D | O | O | D | D |
4 on 2 off schedule: pros and cons
Pros
- ·More coverage from fewer crews
- ·Shorter shifts, usually 10 hours
- ·Easy to remember
- ·Predictable 6-day cycle
Cons
- ·Only two days off to recover
- ·Four shifts in a row
- ·No full weekend off
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Frequently asked questions
What is a 4 on 2 off schedule?
A 4 on 2 off schedule is a 6-day rotation where each crew works four shifts in a row, then takes two days off. Three crews stagger their cycles for continuous coverage.
How many crews does a 4 on 2 off schedule need?
Three crews, each staggered two days apart so there is always a crew working.
How many hours is a 4 on 2 off shift?
Usually 10-hour shifts, though some teams run 12-hour shifts. The tool above lets you pick either.
Which industries use a 4 on 2 off schedule?
Retail, hospitality, and call centers where shifts are shorter and coverage is spread across the week.
How does 4 on 2 off compare to 4 on 4 off?
4 on 2 off gives less recovery time between work blocks, so it is used where more coverage is needed from fewer crews.