GRAHAM, N.C. — Graham firefighters have officially adopted the 48/96 shift schedule, working two consecutive days followed by four days off, after completing a five-month trial period.
The change was made official on June 3 after the city manager approved Fire Chief Tommy Cole’s request, WFMY reported.
“Chief Cole commended his captains for their leadership in managing sleep and rest schedules, ensuring our firefighters remain alert and mission-ready throughout their 48-hour shifts,” the fire department said in a social media post.
The new shift schedule aligns with several other fire departments in the state.
Is the 48/96 firefighter shift a health hazard?
The 48/96 shift is gaining popularity for its work-life balance and fewer shift changes. But critics warn of health risks like fatigue and impaired performance. Departments must weigh its benefits against potential long-term impacts on firefighter health, according to a FireRescue1 article by Sara Jahnke, PhD.
What are the pros and cons of the 48/96 firefighter shift?
The Good:
- Longer recovery time: Firefighters get four consecutive days off, allowing for extended rest, better family time and improved work-life balance.
- Fewer shift changes: Reduces commute time and the number of transitions between crews, which can improve continuity and efficiency.
- Popular among firefighters: Many personnel report higher job satisfaction under the 48/96 schedule.
The Bad:
- Sleep deprivation risk: Two consecutive 24-hour shifts can lead to increased fatigue, especially during busy call periods.
- Cumulative stress: Repeated exposure to stress and disrupted sleep over 48 hours may raise long-term health risks.
- Potential impact on performance: Fatigue could affect decision-making and physical performance, raising safety concerns for firefighters and the public.
In short, while the 48/96 shift is favored for its lifestyle benefits, it also brings potential health and safety challenges that departments must consider carefully.
