kveldsvakt

Kveldsvakt is a term used in Norway and other Nordic countries to describe an evening work shift that covers the late afternoon and into the evening. The word comes from kveld meaning evening and vakt meaning watch, shift, or duty. The shift is part of a broader system that typically includes dagvakt (day shift) and nattevakt (night shift).

Typical hours for a kveldsvakt vary by sector and organization. In health and social care, common arrangements run from around 14:00–22:00 or 15:00–23:00, providing coverage after regular day staffing and before the night shift. In other industries, kveldsvakt can start earlier or end later, for example 12:00–20:00 or 16:00–00:00. Schedules are often described as rotating or fixed, depending on local agreements.

Responsibilities during a kveldsvakt depend on the sector but commonly include maintaining operations, performing routine tasks, administrative duties, and handing over information to the subsequent night shift. In healthcare, the focus is on patient care, coordination, and ensuring continuity of treatment through handovers to the night staff.

Working conditions associated with kveldsvakt may involve shift differentials or pay supplements, limits on consecutive evening work, and potential fatigue or circadian disruption. Rotas may be organized as part of a fixed-evening schedule or a rotating shift pattern.

In practice, the term is most commonly used in healthcare and service industries to describe the shift that bridges day and night coverage. See also nattvakt (night shift) and dagvakt (day shift).