What are Clopening Shifts?

Clopening shifts refer to the practice of having an employee close a business at the end of one day and then open it the next morning. These shifts typically create short turnarounds between work periods, which can be particularly challenging for temporary workers.

For temporary staffing, clopening shifts can lead to fatigue, burnout, and decreased productivity, as workers have little time for rest between shifts. Employers should carefully consider the implications of this practice and its impact on the wellbeing of their temporary workers.

Why it’s Important

Clopening shifts can affect the health and safety of workers, particularly in temporary staffing. In many cases, temporary employees are already balancing multiple jobs or have irregular schedules. Clopening shifts can exacerbate these challenges, leading to increased absenteeism or poor performance.

Clopening Shifts in Practice

A restaurant might schedule a temporary server to close one night and then open the next morning to accommodate shifts during peak hours. This can lead to exhaustion and may affect the worker’s ability to perform their duties effectively.

Benefits of Clopening Shifts for Temporary Staff Employers

• Maximized Coverage: Ensures businesses are staffed during peak hours, even if it requires a quick turnaround between shifts.
• Flexibility: Allows employers to quickly adjust staffing levels to meet business demands.

Best Practices When Scheduling Clopening Shifts

• Limit Frequency: Avoid scheduling clopening shifts regularly to prevent worker fatigue and burnout.
• Provide Adequate Rest: If clopening shifts are necessary, ensure workers have enough time to rest between shifts.
• Offer Incentives: Provide extra compensation for clopening shifts to compensate workers for the short turnaround.