Impacts to Officers Working Routine Work Shifts of 12 Hours or More

Police agencies are expected to do more with less and in doing so are asking more of their officers. One way agencies are meeting the demand of their communities is for officers to work 12 hour shifts or longer. On the surface this appears to be an effective strategy, however there are significant ramifications involved. This study examines the negative effects on officers after working extended hours and the consequences that are beginning to emerge as a result. It is important to understand that the effects can vary from a range of health issues to monetary consequences to the agency. Furthermore, understanding how the body reacts when fatigued will provide leaders with invaluable insights to officer actions. If working extended hours is not challenged, a department’s liability can increase as will the cost of doing business. Understanding what can occur should place a burden on agency heads to consider shortened work shifts so as not to affect the officer’s health and wellness and limit their liability as job demands continue to increase.