When the Hoover Police Department announced it was moving patrol officers from 8-hour shifts to 12-hour shifts, department leaders said the change was intended to improve officer wellness and work-life balance. “I think if 12-hour shifts really mean 12-hour shifts, there is value in implementing them — both to benefit officers and agencies. “I have worked 8-hour shifts and 12-hour shifts. “I’ve worked both 8-hour patrol shifts and 12-hour patrol shifts after my department switched to them. Keep in mind, a 12-hour shift can turn into 16-hours with a late arrest, court the next day and additional ‘assignments.’