What Is Shift Work? Meaning, Types & Best Practices in India
Book a Free DemoShift Work
A work schedule that covers different time blocks, often outside the traditional 9-to-5 hours. Shift work is common in industries requiring 24/7 operations.
Shift work is a work schedule where employees operate in different time blocks, often covering evenings, nights, or early mornings instead of a fixed 9-to-5 schedule. It is essential in industries that require continuous operations, such as healthcare, manufacturing, IT services, transportation, and customer support.
In India, shift work is regulated by sector-specific labour laws and state Shops and Establishments Acts, which define permissible working hours, overtime pay, and rest breaks. Proper planning ensures efficiency while protecting employee well-being.
💬 “Pagarai’s shift scheduling tools helped us optimise coverage while reducing overtime costs.” — Sneha, Operations Manager
👉 Want to simplify shift scheduling? [Get Pagarai’s shift planning templates →]
Types of Shift Work
| Type | Purpose |
| Fixed Shifts | Employees work the same hours consistently |
| Rotating Shifts | Employees alternate between different time slots |
| Split Shifts | Work hours divided into two or more separate periods in a day |
| Night Shifts | Operations during late-night hours |
| On-Call Shifts | Employees available to work only when needed |
Bonus: Ensure compliance with night shift allowances and overtime rules as per Indian labour laws.
Why It Matters
- Ensures 24/7 operational coverage
- Meets customer and production demands
- Improves flexibility in staffing
- Reduces employee burnout through balanced scheduling
- Supports business continuity during emergencies
Common Tools for Managing Shift Work in India
- Keka HR, Zoho People – for automated shift scheduling
- Deputy, When I Work – for mobile-friendly shift management
- Pagarai HR Suite – for integrated shift planning, attendance, and payroll
How Pagarai Helps
- Automates shift allocation based on demand and availability
- Integrates attendance and overtime tracking
- Sends real-time shift updates to employees
- Tracks compliance with state labour laws
- Offers analytics to optimise workforce efficiency
FAQ
Q1: Is shift work legal in India?
Yes — but it must comply with working hours, overtime, and safety regulations under labour laws.
Q2: Can women work night shifts in India?
Yes — in many states and sectors, provided safety measures and transport facilities are arranged.
Q3: How many hours can an employee work per shift?
Typically 8–9 hours, as per the Factories Act and state laws.
Q4: Is overtime mandatory for extra hours in shift work?
Yes — overtime pay is mandatory for eligible employees.
