Working time and hours in Switzerland – Duration and swiss regulation
Working hours are a crucial component of employment contracts in Switzerland. They are also a topic of great importance for employees looking to optimize their schedules, as well as for employers who aim to promote a healthy work environment while adhering to Swiss labor regulations.
To shed light on the subject, we will explore the structure of working hours in Switzerland in detail. Our accountants and auditors will highlight the applicable laws and regulations, workers’ rights, and the implications for employees’ quality of life.
Working hours in Switzerland – Explained
Standard working hours
Working hours are a fundamental part of the employment contract, forming the foundation of the employer-employee relationship.
According to Article 9 of the Swiss Labor Law (LTr), the maximum weekly working hours for employees in office-based roles, technicians, and other similar occupations is set at 45 hours per week.
For other sectors, the maximum weekly working hours in Switzerland are 50 hours. However, variations can apply depending on collective labor agreements or individual contracts, allowing some flexibility in organizing work schedules.
Flexibility and work models
In industries facing significant seasonal fluctuations, the 45- or 50-hour weekly limit can be extended by up to 4 hours, provided the average working hours over six months do not exceed the legal maximum.
For workers with an average five-day workweek, the 45-hour weekly limit can be increased by 2 hours on an 8-week average or by 4 hours over a 4-week average—while ensuring these thresholds are not exceeded.
Remote work (telecommuting) has become a common practice, enabling employees to work from home or other agreed locations. These flexible work arrangements are supported by Swiss legislation and are increasingly adopted by companies aiming to create an attractive work environment and retain top talent.
Working hours and employment rate: summary table
Below is a summary table to help you determine how many hours correspond to a certain percentage of working time in Switzerland.
Table: how many hours correspond to x%
| Percentage of working time | Hours for 42h/week | Hours for 45h/week |
|---|---|---|
| 100% | 42.0 | 45.0 |
| 90% | 37.8 | 40.5 |
| 80% | 33.6 | 36.0 |
| 70% | 29.4 | 31.5 |
| 60% | 25.2 | 27.0 |
| 50% | 21.0 | 22.5 |
| 40% | 16.8 | 18.0 |
| 30% | 12.6 | 13.5 |
| 20% | 8.4 | 9.0 |
| 10% | 4.2 | 4.5 |
Specific regulations and exceptions
Sectors with special provisions
Certain sectors in Switzerland are subject to specific regulations concerning working hours due to the unique nature of their activities.
For instance, in the healthcare sector, special provisions account for on-call duties and availability, allowing tailored work schedules.
Similarly, the hospitality and restaurant industry, as well as the construction sector, have rules adapted to their operational needs, which may include extended hours or shift work.
These provisions aim to ensure that even in sectors requiring high flexibility, workers’ rights are respected, and their health and safety are protected.
It’s worth noting that these specific regulations also apply to pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers.
Self-employed workers and entrepreneurs
For self-employed workers and entrepreneurs in Switzerland, working hour regulations differ from those for salaried employees.
Not being subject to the labor law, they have greater freedom in organizing their working hours. However, this also means they must manage their work-life balance independently and avoid overworking themselves.
The flexibility available to self-employed workers and entrepreneurs can be a double-edged sword. It allows them to adjust their workload to meet their goals, but it can also lead to particularly long working days.
It is therefore crucial for these workers to implement effective time-management strategies and prioritize their own well-being.
Workers’ rights and protections
Overtime and compensation
When an employee works beyond the regular hours outlined in their contract or by law, these additional hours are considered overtime.
Compensation for overtime can be provided in two ways:
- through additional pay;
- through equivalent compensatory time off.
Financial compensation
Overtime pay must include a supplement of at least 25% above the normal hourly wage.
However, collective labor agreements or individual employment contracts may specify alternative arrangements, provided they are not less favorable to the employee.
Compensatory rest
Alternatively, with the employee’s agreement, overtime can be compensated by equivalent time off.
In some cases, compensatory rest may be more advantageous for the employee than overtime pay. For example, providing 1.5 hours of rest for every hour of overtime worked.
Rest and breaks at work
The right to rest is a cornerstone of Swiss labor law, designed to ensure a balance between work and private life.
Workers are entitled to breaks during their workday, as well as weekly rest days and annual vacations.
- Breaks: employees are entitled to breaks ranging from 15 to 60 minutes, depending on the number of hours worked per day. These breaks must be scheduled to support the physical and mental recovery of the worker.
- Weekly rest: in general, workers are entitled to at least one full day of rest per week, usually on Sunday.
- Annual vacations: employees in Switzerland are entitled to a minimum of four weeks of paid vacation per year. This ensures workers can enjoy extended periods of rest to relax and disconnect from their work environment.
Conclusion
Working hours in Switzerland are governed by flexible and well-adapted regulations, aiming to protect workers’ rights while giving companies the flexibility needed to thrive.
The emphasis on working hours reflects a commitment to promoting a healthy and respectful work environment.
Given the challenges posed by labor market changes and evolving employee expectations, it is crucial for Swiss companies to continue adapting their work practices.
Our payroll and salary services can assist you in managing the human resources of your business.
