I'm a CSI working shift work. (including on call overnight for one week in 4)
When I am on "Response" (that is, the person who goes out & does the jobs that come in) I am the only one one, and hence can't really leave - unless there is someone else who can take over for me ( that is someone who is working the same shift as me, on other duties for the shift - some shifts there are, some not).
When I am on "Non response" duties - days in the roster set aside for typing & catching up on work, then if I am not there,the only person it really affects is me (cos I don't get to catch up!) If I got a call on days like that, I get Emergency Services Leave...I think I can have up to 10 a year.
My Supervisor is pretty good.. if he is on the same shift as me, then he will fill in my response shift for me...some of the others in the office not so willing to swap some response shifts....
The major dilemma for me is when I am on call, and we have a CFS call in the local area at say 3 am. I have to be contactable - I have the on call work mobile phone, - which is generally diverted to the home number.....which works OK. If I go to a call out, I can undivert the phone, but it is an Optus phone, and the mobile coverage in my area for Optus is worse than Telstra (which is pretty average at best)....so I have to carefully consider if I respond or not during those times....
Pip