What Is Shift Swap? | HR Glossary | BambooHR
An arrangement where employees exchange rostered shifts, usually with approval.
A shift swap is when two employees agree to exchange their rostered shifts, so that one covers the other's slot and vice versa. It gives staff flexibility to manage personal commitments without formal leave, while keeping the rota covered.
Swaps are usually subject to manager approval to ensure the right skills and numbers remain on each shift and that no one breaches working-time limits by taking on too much. Clear rules prevent gaps in cover or unintended overtime.
Self-service and rostering tools make swaps easier to request, approve and record, keeping time-and-attendance data accurate. In Ireland, employers should ensure swaps still comply with rest-break and maximum-hours rules under working-time law.
