What Is a 4 10 or 9 80 Work Schedule?

The 4-10 work schedule consists of four 10-hour days, providing employees with a three-day weekend each week. The 9-80 work schedule involves working nine-hour days for two weeks, totaling 80 hours, with one day off every two weeks. 

Both schedules enhance work-life balance and employee satisfaction while maintaining a standard 40-hour workweek, though they may not suit all industries.

4-10 Work Schedule

Workdays: Employees typically work Monday to Thursday, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. (or similar hours).

Days Off: Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays are off.

This schedule offers longer weekends, reduced commuting time, and improved work-life balance. However, the longer daily hours may lead to fatigue for some employees.

9-80 Work Schedule

The 9-80 work schedule is another compressed schedule where employees work a total of 80 hours over a two-week period but do so in a way that allows for an extra day off.

Employees work nine-hour days for eight days and then take the ninth day off. For example, they might work Monday to Thursday for nine hours each day in the first week and then take Friday off. 

In the second week, they would repeat this pattern and also work Monday to Thursday before taking the following Friday off.

This schedule allows employees to enjoy a long weekend every other week. Similar to the 4-10 schedule, it enhances employee satisfaction and productivity while providing flexibility.

Both schedules are designed to improve employee morale and retention by offering more time off while still meeting organizational needs. 

However, they may not be suitable for all industries or roles, particularly those requiring consistent coverage throughout the week.

Ensure your scheduling practices follow labor laws and keep employees satisfied. Read more on the Workyard blog:

• Michigan Overtime Laws: Your Guide to Rates, Statutes, Calculations, and More (2025)
• Alabama Labor Laws: A Complete Guide to Wages, Breaks, Overtime, and More for 2025
• Washington State Overtime Laws: Your Guide to Rates, Statutes, Calculations, and More (2025)
• Colorado Overtime Laws: Your Guide to Rates, Statutes, Calculations, and More (2025)
• Colorado Break Laws: Meals, Rests, and More (2025)

References