preshift

Preshift is a term used in some workplaces to describe the period immediately before a worker's scheduled shift begins. The concept is not universally standardized and its exact duration and activities can vary by company, industry, and local practice. In general, preshift serves as a preparation window rather than a period of direct production work.

Typical preshift activities include safety briefings or huddles, equipment or tool checks, calibration and setup of machinery, inventory or quality checks, and the completion of administrative tasks such as sign-in, timecard verification, or access control. Teams may review work orders, assign roles, discuss goals for the upcoming shift, and communicate any special instructions or safety concerns. In some settings, preshift also encompasses a quick inspection of the work area to ensure compliance with regulatory and internal standards.

Industries differ in how preshift is implemented. In manufacturing and logistics, preshift often emphasizes equipment readiness and process readiness. In healthcare or service industries, preshift meetings may focus on patient or customer needs, staffing levels, and safety protocols. Some organizations treat preshift as a formal, time-blocked activity with defined procedures, while others integrate the tasks into the shift-start process.

Related terms include preshift briefing, pre-shift inspection, and shift handover, which cover overlapping preparation and communication activities. Preshift practices are influenced by workplace safety cultures, labor regulations, and organizational policy, and they may evolve to improve efficiency, safety, and communication at the start of each work period.