Plano Firefighters Advocate for 48/96 Shift Pilot Program for Health and Wellness

Proposal for 48/96 Shift Schedule

• 🚒 The Plano Fire Association is proposing a pilot program for a 48-hour shift followed by 96 hours off (48/96 schedule).
• 💡 This new schedule is intended to replace the current 24-hour shift followed by 48 hours off (24/48 schedule).
• ⏳ The association has researched this shift change for five years, aiming to modernize practices based on current knowledge rather than outdated assumptions.

Benefits for Firefighter Health and Wellness

• 😴 Proponents argue that the 48/96 schedule allows for consecutive days of restorative sleep, addressing chronic fatigue among firefighters.
• 🧠 The current schedule leaves firefighters feeling constantly tired and unable to fully recover, impacting overall well-being.

City Concerns and Counterarguments

• 📈 The city management expresses concerns about the increased risks associated with a 48-hour shift, particularly regarding sleep deprivation, given the rising call volumes.
• ⚠️ They worry about officers fighting fires or providing medical care while potentially sleep-deprived, especially during multiple consecutive calls.
• 🗣️ Association President Brad McCutchen dismisses these concerns as unfounded, stating that alignment between the chief, assistant chiefs, medical director, and the association indicates the initiative would not be unsafe.

Pilot Program Details and Next Steps

• 📊 The proposed pilot program would include tracking workplace accidents, injuries, and customer complaints to measure the impact of the new schedule.
• 🗺️ Several Colin County cities are already operating on a 48/96 shift schedule, indicating precedent.
• 🗓️ The city manager has committed to revisiting the request after Station 14 is considered and if two other larger cities adopt the schedule, suggesting a