What is a Shift Handover Procedure?
A shift handover procedure is the process of communication between shifts and is used to ensure the smooth continuity of day-to-day operations and the transfer of knowledge between workers during a shift change. The purpose of a shift handover is to ensure the effective communication with a person or workgroup, so they have all the information they need to be successful in their role. This type of procedure is often used in industries where safety and quality is a major concern, such as in manufacturing or healthcare.
The Importance of a Shift Handover
The importance of a shift handover cannot be overstated, as it ensures effective communication, continuity of operations and the smooth transition of work responsibilities. During a shift handover, essential information regarding ongoing tasks, safety considerations, equipment status and any critical safety incidents or issues are exchanged.
This exchange of information helps prevent errors, reduces downtime and promotes a seamless workflow. It enables the incoming shift to have a comprehensive understanding of the current state of affairs, potential risks and priorities, allowing them to make informed decisions and take necessary actions promptly.
Additionally, a well-executed shift handover fosters collaboration, teamwork and shared responsibility among shifts, creating a cohesive and efficient work environment. By prioritizing a thorough and effective shift handover process, organizations can enhance productivity, mitigate risks and maintain operational excellence.
Methods of a Shift Handover
A shift handover from outgoing to incoming personnel can be either written communication and/or a verbal face to face handover however, it should always be commensurate with the complexity of the tasks being undertaken. The handover of information should be conducted in such a way that the verification of information can be established by the incoming staff and/or by those personnel assuming responsibility for the continuation of the works.
Written handover information should be legible, clear and concise. The detail provided in written handover notes must be consistent with the information that would be conveyed in person (e.g. verbally). Handover forms and documentation must be signed by the person conducting the hand-over and countersigned by the person receiving the hand-over.
Contents of this Shift Handover Procedure
- Approval.
- Purpose.
- Scope.
- Terms and Definitions.
- Roles and Responsibilities.
- Procedures.
- Methods of Handover.
- Handover Information.
- Communication of Hand-over Information.
- Resolution of Handover Issues.
- Records of Handover information.
- Training, Monitoring of Hand-over Effectiveness.
- Related Procedures, Forms and Documents.
- Review Criteria.
- Record Management.
- References.
Why Choose to Buy this Shift Handover Procedure
This 7-page shift handover procedure can assist you provide a good shift handover or shift changeover process between incoming shifts and outgoing shifts, to ensure that all relevant information is accurately communicated. In particular, this includes all contributing factors to enable the continuity of safe work practices.
After purchasing this template you will be able to:
- Very easily edit and customize the template to create your own hand over procedure.
- Apply your own style, format and brand to the procedure.
- Use it in any industry or sector regardless of the size or type of organization.
Availability and Use of this Shift Handover Procedure
- This shift handover procedure is accessible to you right now by clicking the ‘Buy Now’ button.
- The procedure will be delivered to you in fully editable Microsoft Word format for immediate and full use in your business.
- There are no subscriptions, contracts or ongoing costs.
