The Chicago Sun-Times recently published an article discussing a significant shift in the scheduling system for dispatchers at the Chicago Fire Department. The change, which has sparked considerable debate, involves moving from a rotating to a fixed shift schedule in an effort to improve response times and cut down on $9.2 million in annual overtime costs.
For decades, fire communications officers worked in a 4-day on, 2-day off rotation across three different shifts: 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., 3 p.m. to 11 p.m., and 11 p.m. to 7 a.m. This system had been in place for 70 years. However, last week, the rotating schedule ended after strong opposition from IBEW Local 9, the union representing the workers.
Starting January 5, employees are now assigned to fixed shifts, with the majority working the third shift—the busiest time of day. Gary Schenkel, executive director of the Office of Emergency Management and Communications, explained that this decision was based on data showing that up to 30% of calls come in after 3 p.m. He emphasized the need to better match staffing with peak demand.
Schenkel also mentioned that the city is using predictive analysis from the Illinois Institute of Technology to optimize scheduling. Despite concerns about burnout and potential mistakes, he argued that the new system would lead to more consistent coverage during high-volume periods.
However, Jeff Johnson, a union steward for IBEW Local 9, raised several concerns. He pointed out that no major U.S. city uses straight shifts for fire dispatchers, and warned that the change could lead to increased stress, higher sick leave usage, and even compromised public safety. He also highlighted that seniority-based bidding could leave less experienced staff handling the busiest hours.
Schenkel responded by citing research that suggests rotating shifts can lead to more health issues, including sleep disorders. He urged the union to give the new system a chance, saying it should be evaluated over the next 90 days.
The shift comes amid ongoing challenges at the 911 center, including chronic understaffing and rising overtime costs. Last fall, Schenkel told city officials that a major renovation project had created logistical difficulties while the center continued to handle over 15,000 calls daily.
This move is part of broader budget cuts under Mayor Rahm Emanuel’s administration, which initially proposed laying off several dispatchers and reducing supervisory roles. After negotiations, some of the cuts were adjusted, but the impact on staffing remains a concern.
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