Running at peak efficiency is every manufacturer’s dream. Unfortunately, it can be a challenge to achieve. Here, we look at the benefits of a synchronised clock and shift-change system and how it can make your working day more efficient.
Manufacturers are under increasing pressure and time management is key
Consumers’ demands and expectations are ever increasing. We want products and we want them now. And manufacturers must keep up or risk losing out to their competition.
To that end, factories must run efficiently 24/7 and every shift must be covered so that production is optimised. There are many different shift patterns in operation – fixed and rotating, split shifts and night shifts. At the same time, managers must make sure they keep to working-time regulations and that everyone has the required rest breaks.
Unplanned downtime is extremely costly
UK and European manufacturers were predicted to lose more than £80bn in 2025 due to downtime, according to IDS-INDATA research. This downtime can be caused by factors including equipment failure, cyber-attacks or supply chain problems. However, poor timekeeping can also affect productivity if workers do not work their full shifts or scheduling is inaccurate.
Contact us for specialist advice on how to improve efficiency at your manufacturing site
Use a synchronised clock and shift-change system to remove errors and improve accuracy
A synchronised clock and shift-change system not only ensures accurate timekeeping but can have other beneficial effects on your working day. Here are a few examples.
Reduce confusion and mistakes
As team leaders, you can be confident that the shift-change bells are accurate. A standardised, reliable timekeeping system ensures that everyone across the facility is working to the same time. This removes the chance of anyone clocking off too early or too late.
Improve safety
Keeping your workers safe should be a top priority.
Eleven manufacturing workers were killed in work-related accidents in 2025, say provisional figures from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). Figures from the HSE’s Labour Force Survey state that 680,000 workers (not solely in manufacturing) suffered non-fatal injuries in 2024/25.
You can use shift-change bell systems to trigger emergency alarms. Knowing that these are reliable and trusted will help protect your team in the event of an emergency. Providing a different sound for each type of alarm will clarify for your staff which procedure to carry out. It is particularly vital to distinguish a shift change alert from an emergency alert.
Streamline the production process
Synchronising the start and end times of shifts makes production more efficient and reduces bottlenecks.
Create a more efficient workflow
Exactly how long does each task take? Where could you make improvements? Reduce wasted time by giving employees real-time information about their work.
Boost employee morale
Everyone likes to feel they have some control over their working day. Make it easier for employees to track their time and shifts, and perhaps suggest efficiencies themselves. They are then likely to feel they have more agency which will improve morale.
Cut your costs and save time with Bodet Time’s synchronised clock and bell system
Bodet Time’s synchronised bell systems perform multiple functions, from shift change to emergency alerts. This combined functionality eliminates the need for separate systems, saving money and ensuring a smooth, connected operation.
Synchronised clock systems automate the biannual clock changeover, cutting out hours of labour. They can control utilities like heating and lighting, meaning you only use these when they are needed, therefore reducing costs.
In addition, our systems can operate across your existing IT network, thereby reducing your infrastructure investment costs.
Bodet Time’s Harmonys system offers a range of different melodies or the option of live and pre-recorded messages to be broadcasted to the whole factory or separate zones. These distinct sounds increase safety by distinguishing different alerts, such as end of start of shifts, from different types of emergency, including fire. Not only improving efficiency and reducing confusion, but also potentially saving lives.
Contact us to help improve efficiency in your manufacturing facility
Get specialist advice for your facility and discover more about Bodet Time’s synchronised clock and shift change systems.
Email us on enquiries@bodet-time.co.uk or call our expert team on 01442 418800.
