LESSON 2/TASK 1
that the MP unit is required to support. It also considered those requirements that the PM has for other
than patrol personnel. This might include personnel detailed to support the PMO, or special guard
posts or other unique missions.
By multiplying the number of individuals available (35) by the number of hours in a normal work week
(40), the number of work hours available per week (1,400) can be determined. For purposes of
illustration, days off, holidays, etc., have not been considered. Each of the available MP are to work an
eight hour day for a five-day week. Under normal circumstances, time for leave, illness, etc. would
have to be included here, if it had not already been considered in determining the number of MP
available. The same is also true of any special requirements of the PM and commander that are
unique to the installation.
Again, for purposes of simplicity, traditional shifts of 0001-0800, 0800-1600, and 1600-2400, have been
used. Local considerations may dictate different shifts. An examination of the distribution of complaints
may indicate how shifts might be more effectively established for the installation. For example, shift
changes should be avoided during periods of increased demand for police services. If the installation
has a major rush hour that begins at 1600, you may want to consider changing shifts at 1500.
Determine the percentages of complaints by day from a table similar to that in Figure 5. Note them at
the bottom of the appropriate columns as has been done in Figure 6. Figure 6 is a sample of a
projected patrol distribution. Enter the total number of MP available and the work hours to which that
equates (35 and 1,400).
Determine the shift design to be used. As noted, we will use the traditional one for simplicity. Enter the
shift hours in the proper columns. Using Figure 5, determine the percentage of complaints occurring
during each shift. These would be entered in the proper column in Figure 6.
Disperse the total number of work hours of patrol service available by multiplying work hours available
by the percentage of complaints received per shift. The results have been entered in the column
showing average work hours (1,400 multiplied by 20.4%, equals 286 work hours). The work hours
should be rounded to whole work-hour weeks; in this case 280 work hours. Divide this figure (280) by
the 40-hour work week of each MP. The result is the number of MP required for the 0001-0800 shift
per week. In this example it is 7. Repeat the procedure for the other two shifts.
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