Shift Handover Best Practices

Summary

A proper shift handover ensures that the incoming supervisor has all the information they need to manage safety on the next shift. It is a critical part of your duty of care.

What This Means on Shift

At the end of your shift, you must brief the incoming supervisor on all hazards, incidents, equipment status, and any outstanding actions. A verbal handover is not enough — key information must be documented.

• Cover all active hazards and controls in your handover
• Report any incidents or near misses that occurred on your shift
• Note any equipment that is out of service or under repair
• Identify any outstanding actions that need to be followed up
• Confirm the incoming supervisor has received and understood the handover

Where to Find It

Shift handover requirements are part of your general duty of care under section 9 of the Mines Safety and Inspection Act 1994. Your site's Management Plan will also specify handover requirements.

• Mines Safety and Inspection Act 1994 – s.9 (general duty)
• Your site's Mine Management Plan
• Your site's shift handover procedure

Key Points

A good handover takes time. Do not rush it. The incoming supervisor needs to be fully informed before they take responsibility for the shift.

• Allow sufficient time for handover — do not rush
• Cover safety, production, equipment, and people
• Document key information in the shift log
• The incoming supervisor should ask questions if anything is unclear
• Both supervisors share responsibility during the handover period

Actions / Checklist