Under Swiss law, the maximum weekly working time for industrial workers, office
personnel, technicians and other employees, including the sales staff of major
retailers, is 45 hours. The limit for all other workers is 50 hours per week.
Average weekly working time in Swiss enterprises in 2007 was 41.57 hours (source:
Federal
Statistical Office).
The planning of working hours is in principle the responsibility of employers,
who, however, must observe the relevant statutory requirements (rest periods,
breaks, public holidays, time off at weekends, prohibition of night and Sunday
working, etc.) and must consult staff with regard to work schedules, allowing as
far as possible for individual needs. For more information, it is best to
consult your employer or the competent authorities direct.
Overtime over and above the agreed working hours but not exceeding the statutory
maximum working time must in general be remunerated at time plus 25% or, if the
employee agrees, be offset by a corresponding period of leave. However,
different arrangements may be agreed in writing between employers and employees.
Overtime in excess of the maximum weekly working time of 45 or 50 hours is
governed by the provisions of the Labour Law. It must be remunerated at time
plus 25% or, if the employee agrees, be offset by a corresponding period of
leave.
Temporary work performed at night, on Sundays or on public holidays carries an
entitlement to special remuneration. For regular night work, the Labour Law
provides for a 10% leisure time offset for all employees. This cannot be
converted into pecuniary compensation unless the person’s employment ends.
Text last edited on: 06/2009
Source: European Union
© European Communities, 1995-2009
Reproduction is authorised.
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