Why is the night shift called the lobster shift?

Answer 1

In the 19th Century, the term "lobster" was slang for a fool - the implication is that only a fool would work such hours. "Lobster shift" or "Lobster trick" is a newspaper term. The other possible origin is that the reporters would come in to work "boiled" or drunk.

Answer 2

The term "lobster shift" likely originated from a lobster’s tendency to be more active at night. Night shifts are often associated with increased activity during the late hours, similar to how lobsters are more active at night. This term is commonly used in industries like healthcare and transportation where workers are required to work overnight.