# Shift-Based Access Control

The **Shifts** feature includes **access restriction** **controls** that let you define exactly when team members can access accounts. This helps improve security, reduce mistakes, and ensure members are only working during approved hours.

**When enabled, members will only be able to access accounts during their scheduled shifts.**

#### Need help setting up shifts?

[Click here for step-by-step instructions on creating shifts. ](/management-system/shifts.md)

### Access Restrictions 

With **access restrictions activated**, the system enforces access rules:

* Chatters **cannot open assigned accounts** outside their scheduled hours
* Profile avatars will appear **grayed out with a lock icon** when access is restricted

## Role-Based Access

You can enable shift-based access per role.

<figure><img src="/files/nBqBPVBRvhZTphumarx6" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

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Once enabled, all team members assigned to that role will only have access during their scheduled shifts.

## Countdown Timer on Profile Avatars

During an active shift, each profile avatar in the sidebar now displays a countdown timer indicating how much time remains in the current shift.&#x20;

* A green timer appears 5 minutes before the shift starts, counting down to the beginning
* A red timer appears 5 minutes before the shift ends, counting down to the end

This visual aid helps members stay aware of their shift timing — so they can **wrap up conversations or request an extension** if needed.&#x20;

## How to Enable Access Restrictions

To activate shift-based access control:

1. Make sure your team is using **OnlyMonster version 3.11.0 or later**&#x20;
2. Navigate to **Roles** in your admin settings, select the required role and click→ **Edit**&#x20;
3. Enable the toggle "**Allow access only during active shifts**"

Once enabled, members will only have access to accounts during their scheduled shift times.

## Shift Extension

If a member is running out of time but needs to finish a conversation, they can extend their shift by 15 minutes directly from the Shifts panel.

#### Requirements for Shift Extension:

* The member must have **View Shifts permission** to extend their shift by 15 minutes
* The **Edit Shifts** permission provides access to creating and editing shifts for all accounts the team member can access
* The extension option becomes available shortly before the shift ends

This feature ensures better time management and prevents disruption to ongoing conversations while maintaining strict access controls.

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