Some partners feel the pressure to complete tasks at work so they can have some time off when the baby arrives. It is a good idea to put some planning in place to facilitate an easier transition into the parenting role. If possible, depending on the flexibility of your work situation, avoid having major deadlines or new projects falling around the baby's due date.
Consider applying for annual leave or paternity leave. Ask if your employer can be flexible with the dates. The week of the due date is handy, but what if the baby is 2 weeks early or late? If you work for yourself give some thought to how you can structure your work commitments.
Don't underestimate the stress you may feel and the recovery needed after the labour and birth. Many partners go into 'provider mode' towards the end of the woman's pregnancy. Working harder, taking on extra work, feeling the pressure to support a new family. Take care of yourself leading up to the birth, so that you can be a refreshed support person and able to contribute yourself to your partner and new baby after the birth.
If you have other children, you will probably be needed to help care for them in the early weeks as the woman cares for the new baby. Many partners complain that they hardly see the new baby because all their time is taken caring for and entertaining the older child. All this can be quite demanding. Having some family or friends to help with the siblings in the early weeks may be helpful if you can't get time off work.
Being a shift worker and unable to sleep with a new baby in the house
Sleeping (or not sleeping!) with a new baby can be a real issue for shift workers. It may be OK if your baby sleeps all day and cries all the time you're at work (although your partner may not agree!) but sleep is a prized commodity when you feel you can't ever get enough of it.
If you can't find an obvious solution, like a good pair of earplugs, you will have to improvise.