There are many varied shift patterns employed within policing. In the UK, in particular, officers and staff don’t usually have the option to select a shift or rotation that works for them—those in frontline and often middle office roles (such as control room dispatchers), routinely work the shift pattern followed by their police force.

Usually, this is some form of rotating pattern, incorporating a variety of day shifts, afternoon shifts, and night shifts.

Those working these irregular and rotating shifts are therefore exposed to the negative aspects of shift work, particularly fatigue. Shift work, particularly night shifts or rotating shifts, is known to cause sleep disturbances and reduction. The subsequent fatigue is associated with impaired decision-making, cognitive impairment, and reduced vigilance, often leading to accidents, incidents, and road traffic collisions. Those who also have to drive for work purposes are at a potentially higher risk of being involved in a fatigue-related collision.