NCJ Number
131605
Date Published
1989
Length
38 pages
Annotation
An attempt is made to determine the feasibility of the 4-10 schedule for the Tucson Police Department by examining several factors that must be analyzed when considering the differences between 4-10 and 5-8 work schedules: the experience of other police agencies, Tucson's staffing level, equipment needs, costs, the attitude of employees regarding a possible change to a 4-10 schedule, employee concerns such as sick leave use and accidents, and support units.
Abstract
A survey of Tucson police commanders revealed a generally negative attitude about the prospect of converting to a 4-10 schedule, but a department-wide survey of all personnel showed great enthusiasm for a 4-10 plan. The experience of other police agencies in the United States and Canada responded to most of the commanders' concerns. Generally, call-response improved, on-sight activity increased, costs changed little, sick leave decreased or remained unchanged, and fatigue factors such as police vehicle accidents and industrial injuries decreased or remained at the same level. Recognizing that a thorough test of the 4-10 schedule is indicated before proposing a wide-scale implementation, it is recommended that one patrol division, on civilian unit, and one sworn support unit be used to test a 4-10 schedule for at least six months.