Unmasking the impact: unveiling the effects of 12-hour shifts on performance among South African police officers

Abstract

The South African Police Service (SAPS) has implemented a shift system in which police officers are scheduled to work for four consecutive days, resulting in a total of 48 hours per week. The implementation of the 12-hour shift pattern has been found to have an adverse effect on police officers. Consequently, this appears to have a detrimental effect on police effectiveness. Studies investigating the effects of the 12-hour shift have revealed that this work schedule significantly influences the reaction time, sleep patterns, and overall health of police officers, thereby impacting their performance. This study aims to provide a qualitative analysis of the effects of the 12-hour shift on police performance at Pretoria Central (SAPS) Police Station in Gauteng Province, South Africa. Data was collected from eight (8) individuals from the SAPS, namely at Pretoria Central Police Station, using semi-structured interviews. The participants have suggested that officials in the SAPS should evaluate the existing shift structure and increase the deployment of police officers at the police station. This would help alleviate the workload of the officers and enhance service delivery.