By the end of this topic you will be able to:
- Conduct a thorough shift handover with the incoming attendant or cashier.
- Complete all required end-of-shift documentation accurately.
- Communicate outstanding tasks, issues and customer feedback during handover.
- Understand why a clean, complete handover protects both you and your colleague.
What Is a Shift Handover?
A shift handover is the formal transfer of responsibility from one attendant (or cashier) to the next at the end of a work period. It ensures continuity of service, accuracy of records, and personal accountability. A poor handover creates confusion, financial discrepancies and safety risks.
Why Handovers Matter
- Accountability — you are responsible for everything that happens on your shift. A proper handover creates a documented boundary between your shift and the next.
- Continuity — the incoming person needs to know about pending tasks, issues, or unusual situations.
- Financial accuracy — till counts and fuel readings are confirmed at handover, preventing disputes about who was responsible for a shortage.
- Safety — any maintenance issues, spills or hazards observed during your shift must be communicated so they are addressed.
End-of-Shift Checklist
| Task | Details |
|---|---|
| 📊 Till count | Count all cash in the till; record on till reconciliation sheet; hand to supervisor |
| ⛽ Pump meter readings | Record the closing meter reading from each pump; compare against the opening reading to calculate total litres dispensed |
| 🪣 Tank dip readings | Dip each underground tank and record on dip sheet; note any water indicator |
| 🧹 Forecourt cleaning | Sweep pump islands; clean nozzles; empty drip trays; dispose of waste |
| 🛠️ Maintenance log | Record any equipment faults, spills or issues observed during the shift |
| 📦 Stock check (if applicable) | Note any low stock items in the shop; inform incoming person |
| 📝 Handover briefing | Verbal briefing with the incoming attendant covering outstanding issues, customer feedback, and pending tasks |
The Verbal Handover — What to Communicate
- Any pump, equipment or safety issues that were not resolved during your shift.
- Customer complaints or incidents that occurred and their current status.
- Deliveries that are expected during the next shift.
- Till float amount handed over and any cash discrepancies noted.
- Any instructions from management that apply to the next shift.
- Anything unusual or that may affect the incoming team.
Shift Logbook / Handover Sheet
Most stations use a written shift logbook or handover sheet where the outgoing attendant records key information. This creates a permanent record and means nothing is forgotten even if the handover is brief.
The logbook typically records: date and time, outgoing attendant name, incoming attendant name, pump readings, tank dip readings, till balance, incidents, maintenance issues and supervisor signature.
- Name three things you should communicate to the incoming attendant during a verbal handover.
- Why do you take pump meter readings at the end of each shift?
- What is the purpose of a shift logbook?
📚 Additional Resources
📖 Further Reading
🎬 Watch: Shift Handover Best Practices
This video covers the essential elements of a professional shift handover, including what to communicate, what to document, and how to ensure a smooth transition between shifts.

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