Hours of work clause: Copy, customize, and use instantly
Introduction
An hours of work clause outlines the expected working hours, breaks, and overtime provisions for employees. It ensures clarity on scheduling, compliance with labor laws, and mutual understanding between employers and employees. This clause can address standard work hours, flexibility, and any additional compensation for extended work periods.
Below are templates for hours of work clauses tailored to different scenarios. Copy, customize, and insert them into your agreement.
Standard hours of work
This clause defines the standard working hours for employees.
The standard hours of work for employees shall be [specific hours, e.g., 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM], Monday through Friday, excluding public holidays. Employees are expected to adhere to this schedule unless otherwise agreed in writing by the employer.
Flexible hours of work
This clause allows for flexibility in working hours while maintaining overall expectations.
Employees may choose their start and end times within the range of [specific time frame, e.g., 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM], provided they complete [specific number] hours of work each day or week and meet operational needs. Prior approval from the employer is required for any adjustments outside this range.
Overtime hours of work
This clause sets conditions for overtime work and compensation.
Employees may be required to work overtime as necessary to meet operational demands. Overtime hours shall be compensated at a rate of [specific rate, e.g., 1.5 times the regular hourly rate] for hours worked beyond [specific threshold, e.g., 40 hours per week]. Overtime must be pre-approved by the employer.
Breaks and rest periods
This clause specifies the breaks and rest periods employees are entitled to during work hours.
Employees are entitled to [specific duration, e.g., a 30-minute unpaid lunch break] for every [specific hours worked, e.g., 6 hours worked]. Additionally, employees may take [specific duration, e.g., 15-minute paid breaks] twice during the workday. Breaks must be scheduled to ensure continuous business operations.
Shift work hours
This clause addresses hours for employees working in shifts.
Employees assigned to shift work shall follow the schedule provided by the employer, which may include [specific shifts, e.g., morning, afternoon, or night shifts]. Shift durations shall not exceed [specific hours, e.g., 8 hours per shift], and employees shall receive [specific time, e.g., a minimum of 12 hours] of rest between shifts.
Seasonal hours of work
This clause defines hours for employees working seasonally.
Employees engaged in seasonal work shall adhere to a schedule of [specific hours and days, e.g., 10-hour shifts, Monday through Saturday] during the active season. Outside the active season, work hours and days shall be determined based on operational needs and communicated in advance.
Reduced hours of work
This clause accommodates employees with reduced working hours.
Employees on reduced-hour arrangements shall work [specific hours per day or week, e.g., 20 hours per week] as agreed upon with the employer. The schedule may be adjusted subject to mutual agreement, ensuring that operational needs are met.
Emergency work hours
This clause specifies working hours during emergencies or critical situations.
In the event of an emergency or critical operational need, employees may be required to work beyond their standard hours. Compensation for such hours shall be provided in accordance with applicable laws and company policies.
Remote work hours
This clause defines hours for employees working remotely.
Employees working remotely are expected to adhere to the same standard hours of work as outlined in this Agreement unless otherwise approved by the employer. Regular updates on work progress must be provided, and availability for communication during working hours is required.
Compliance with local laws
This clause ensures that hours of work comply with applicable labor laws.
The employer shall ensure that all hours of work comply with applicable labor laws and regulations, including limits on daily and weekly working hours, mandatory rest periods, and overtime compensation. Any deviation must be consistent with legal requirements and documented in writing.
Compressed workweek hours
This clause defines a compressed work schedule for employees.
Employees may work a compressed schedule of [specific hours, e.g., 10 hours per day for 4 days per week] to fulfill their weekly hour requirements. This arrangement must be agreed upon in writing and aligned with operational needs.
Rotational hours of work
This clause addresses rotating schedules for employees.
Employees shall work on a rotational schedule, with shifts changing every [specific period, e.g., week, month]. The employer will provide a schedule at least [specific time, e.g., two weeks] in advance to ensure adequate planning.
Core hours policy
This clause specifies mandatory core hours when all employees must be available.
All employees must be available during core hours from [specific time, e.g., 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM]. Outside of these hours, employees may flex their start and end times as long as they fulfill their total daily or weekly work requirements.
Job-sharing hours of work
This clause defines working hours for employees in a job-sharing arrangement.
Employees participating in a job-sharing arrangement shall divide the standard workweek of [specific hours, e.g., 40 hours] as mutually agreed and approved by the employer. Each employee’s schedule must ensure seamless operational coverage.
On-call work hours
This clause establishes hours for employees on call.
Employees designated as on-call are required to be available during [specific hours or days, e.g., evenings and weekends]. On-call hours shall be compensated in accordance with company policy and applicable laws.
Fieldwork hours
This clause addresses hours for employees working in the field.
Employees engaged in fieldwork are expected to follow a flexible schedule based on the requirements of their assignments. The total hours worked shall not exceed [specific number, e.g., 40 hours per week], unless pre-approved by the employer.
Training and development hours
This clause defines hours allocated for training or professional development.
Employees shall dedicate [specific number of hours, e.g., 8 hours per month] to training and professional development activities. These hours are considered part of the regular work schedule and are subject to the employer’s approval.
Split shift hours
This clause specifies working hours divided into separate shifts within a day.
Employees working split shifts shall adhere to a schedule divided into [specific segments, e.g., morning and evening shifts] as provided by the employer. Each segment shall be separated by a minimum of [specific number, e.g., 2 hours].
Project-based hours
This clause outlines flexible hours for employees working on specific projects.
Employees assigned to project-based work may have variable hours depending on the project timeline and deliverables. The total hours worked must align with the agreed project schedule and company policies.
Night shift hours
This clause establishes terms for employees working night shifts.
Employees assigned to night shifts shall work from [specific time, e.g., 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM]. Night shift work shall include a [specific duration, e.g., 30-minute] meal break, and eligible employees will receive [specific compensation, e.g., night shift differential pay].
Extended hours policy
This clause addresses situations requiring employees to work extended hours.
Employees may be required to work extended hours during peak operational periods or project deadlines. Such hours must be pre-approved by the employer and shall be compensated in accordance with applicable laws and company policies.
Travel-related work hours
This clause defines working hours during business travel.
Employees traveling for work are considered to be on duty during the hours required for travel and attendance at work-related events. Travel outside normal working hours shall be compensated as per company policies and legal requirements.
Public holiday work hours
This clause establishes hours for employees required to work on public holidays.
Employees scheduled to work on public holidays will be compensated at [specific rate, e.g., 1.5 times their regular hourly rate]. Work hours on such days shall be limited to [specific number, e.g., 8 hours], unless otherwise agreed in writing.
Internship hours of work
This clause specifies hours for interns under the agreement.
Interns shall work a maximum of [specific number, e.g., 20 hours per week] during the internship period unless otherwise agreed with the employer. The schedule shall be flexible to accommodate academic commitments.
Flexible weekly hours
This clause allows flexibility in meeting weekly work requirements.
Employees are permitted to vary their daily hours as long as they complete [specific number, e.g., 40 hours] per week. Any changes to the standard schedule must be communicated and approved by the employer in advance.
Work-from-anywhere hours
This clause defines hours for employees working remotely from various locations.
Employees authorized to work from any location must remain available during [specific core hours, e.g., 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM] and ensure a minimum of [specific number, e.g., 8 hours] of work per day, adjusted for time zone differences.
Temporary work hours
This clause sets hours for employees in temporary or short-term roles.
Temporary employees shall work a schedule of [specific hours, e.g., 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Monday through Friday] during their engagement period. Any changes to the schedule will be communicated at least [specific number of days, e.g., 3 days] in advance.
Overtime exemption hours
This clause addresses hours for employees exempt from overtime pay.
Employees classified as exempt from overtime shall work the hours necessary to complete their responsibilities, typically aligned with the standard schedule of [specific hours, e.g., 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM]. No additional compensation shall be provided for hours worked beyond this schedule.
Standby hours policy
This clause establishes terms for employees on standby.
Employees required to remain on standby must be available during [specific hours or days, e.g., weekends or after-hours] and respond promptly to work-related requests. Compensation for standby hours shall be provided as outlined in company policies.
Reduced summer hours
This clause allows for shorter working hours during the summer months.
Employees may work a reduced schedule of [specific hours, e.g., 6 hours per day] during the summer months of [specific period, e.g., June to August], provided operational needs are met. This arrangement must be approved by the employer in advance.
Shift swapping hours
This clause permits employees to exchange shifts with prior approval.
Employees may swap shifts with colleagues, provided the exchange does not disrupt operations and is approved by the employer at least [specific time frame, e.g., 24 hours] in advance. Both employees must fulfill their respective work hours as agreed.
On-site project hours
This clause specifies working hours for employees assigned to on-site projects.
Employees working on on-site projects shall adhere to the schedule set by the project manager, typically [specific hours, e.g., 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM]. Adjustments may be made to accommodate site-specific needs.
Educational institution hours
This clause defines work hours for employees working in educational settings.
Employees shall work from [specific time, e.g., 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM] on days when classes are in session. Additional hours for meetings, grading, or events shall be scheduled in advance by the employer.
Variable hours policy
This clause allows for variable hours based on workload or project requirements.
Employees may work variable hours depending on the needs of their department or projects, with total hours not exceeding [specific weekly limit, e.g., 40 hours]. Schedules will be communicated at least [specific time frame, e.g., one week] in advance.
Call center hours
This clause addresses working hours for employees in a call center environment.
Call center employees shall work rotating shifts between [specific hours, e.g., 7:00 AM and 10:00 PM], as scheduled by the employer. Each shift shall include a [specific duration, e.g., 30-minute] unpaid meal break.
Emergency services hours
This clause defines hours for employees providing emergency services.
Emergency services employees shall work in shifts of [specific hours, e.g., 12 hours] to ensure continuous coverage. Rest periods of at least [specific duration, e.g., 8 hours] between shifts shall be provided.
Part-time hours policy
This clause establishes hours for part-time employees.
Part-time employees shall work [specific hours, e.g., 20 hours per week] as per their agreed schedule. Additional hours must be pre-approved and compensated according to company policies.
Cross-border hours policy
This clause addresses hours for employees working across different time zones.
Employees working across time zones must be available for core hours between [specific overlapping hours, e.g., 12:00 PM and 3:00 PM EST]. Flexibility is allowed outside of core hours, provided total weekly hours are met.
Apprenticeship hours
This clause sets work hours for apprentices.
Apprentices shall work a maximum of [specific hours, e.g., 30 hours per week], including on-the-job training and classroom instruction. The schedule shall be coordinated to meet both training and operational requirements.
Seasonal overtime hours
This clause addresses overtime during peak seasonal periods.
Employees may be required to work overtime during peak seasonal periods, up to [specific maximum hours, e.g., 60 hours per week]. Compensation for such hours shall follow applicable labor laws and company policies.
Health and safety compliance hours
This clause ensures compliance with health and safety requirements for working hours.
Employees shall not work more than [specific number, e.g., 10 consecutive hours] without a break, in compliance with health and safety standards. Rest periods of at least [specific duration, e.g., 12 hours] shall be provided between shifts.
Weekend-only work hours
This clause defines hours for employees working exclusively on weekends.
Employees hired for weekend work shall adhere to a schedule of [specific hours, e.g., 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Saturday and Sunday]. Additional hours outside this schedule require prior employer approval.
Standalone project hours
This clause specifies hours for standalone or freelance projects.
Employees working on standalone projects shall determine their schedules in consultation with the project manager. Total hours shall not exceed [specific number, e.g., 20 hours per project] unless approved in advance.
Trial period hours
This clause sets hours for employees during a trial or probationary period.
Employees on a trial period shall work [specific hours, e.g., 8 hours per day, Monday to Friday] for the duration of the probationary period. Adjustments to hours may be made upon successful completion of the trial.
Compensatory rest hours
This clause ensures rest hours are provided after extended or overnight work.
Employees required to work extended or overnight hours shall be entitled to [specific rest duration, e.g., 8 hours] of compensatory rest before returning to their regular duties.
Volunteer program hours
This clause defines hours for employees participating in volunteer programs.
Employees volunteering through company-sponsored programs may dedicate up to [specific hours, e.g., 5 hours per month] during regular work hours with prior approval from their manager.
Workload-based hours
This clause allows for hours to vary based on workload intensity.
Employees’ hours may vary depending on workload demands, with weekly hours not exceeding [specific maximum, e.g., 45 hours]. Schedules shall be reviewed and adjusted as needed to balance workload and operational efficiency.
Hybrid work hours
This clause defines hours for employees working both remotely and on-site.
Employees in hybrid roles must work on-site for [specific days or hours, e.g., 3 days per week] and remotely for the remaining time. Core hours of availability shall be maintained regardless of location.
Job rotation hours
This clause specifies hours for employees rotating between different roles.
Employees participating in job rotation shall adhere to the hours required for each role, as communicated in advance. Any adjustments to the schedule must be approved by the employer.
Training period hours
This clause specifies hours for employees during their training period.
Employees in training shall work a maximum of [specific hours, e.g., 30 hours per week] during the training period. The schedule will be determined by the training coordinator and communicated in advance.
Early shift hours
This clause defines hours for employees working early shifts.
Employees assigned to early shifts shall work from [specific time, e.g., 6:00 AM to 2:00 PM]. Adjustments to the early shift schedule require prior approval from the employer.
Evening-only work hours
This clause addresses hours for employees exclusively working in the evenings.
Employees hired for evening work shall work from [specific time, e.g., 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM]. Any changes to this schedule must be approved by the employer.
Peak hour flexibility clause
This clause permits flexibility in working hours to avoid peak traffic times.
Employees may adjust their working hours by up to [specific range, e.g., 2 hours] at the start or end of the day to avoid peak traffic, provided they complete their required daily or weekly hours.
Dual employment hours
This clause defines hours for employees engaged in dual employment.
Employees with dual employment must ensure their hours in this role do not exceed [specific number, e.g., 20 hours per week]. Any conflicts with their primary employment must be disclosed to the employer.
Seasonal peak hours
This clause establishes extended hours during seasonal peaks.
During peak seasonal periods, employees may be required to work extended hours up to [specific limit, e.g., 12 hours per day], with applicable overtime compensation provided as per labor laws.
Relief shift hours
This clause specifies hours for relief workers filling in for other employees.
Relief workers shall work flexible shifts of up to [specific hours, e.g., 8 hours per day], as required to cover the absence of regular employees. The schedule will be communicated at least [specific notice period, e.g., 24 hours] in advance.
Split week hours
This clause defines hours for employees working split schedules within a week.
Employees may work split weekly schedules, such as [specific example, e.g., Monday-Wednesday and Friday-Saturday]. The total weekly hours must not exceed [specific limit, e.g., 40 hours], and adjustments require employer approval.
Cultural event work hours
This clause outlines hours for employees involved in cultural or community events.
Employees assigned to cultural events shall work [specific hours, e.g., 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM] during event days. Breaks and rest periods shall be provided in accordance with company policy.
Shift duration cap
This clause sets a maximum duration for any single work shift.
No single work shift shall exceed [specific number, e.g., 10 hours], except in emergency circumstances. Employees must have a minimum rest period of [specific duration, e.g., 12 hours] between shifts.
Overtime waiver hours
This clause allows employees to voluntarily waive specific overtime hours.
Employees may waive overtime hours beyond [specific threshold, e.g., 50 hours per week] upon mutual agreement with the employer. Such waivers must comply with applicable labor laws.
Rotating on-call hours
This clause addresses on-call hours that rotate among employees.
On-call responsibilities shall rotate among employees weekly, with each individual being available during [specific hours, e.g., evenings and weekends]. Compensation for on-call hours shall be provided as per company policy.
Weekly cap on hours
This clause enforces a maximum number of working hours per week.
Employees shall not work more than [specific number, e.g., 60 hours per week], including regular and overtime hours. Exceptions require prior written approval from the employer.
Task-based hours
This clause allows hours to vary based on task completion.
Employees may work flexible hours to complete assigned tasks, provided total weekly hours do not exceed [specific number, e.g., 40 hours]. Task deadlines and time tracking will be monitored by the supervisor.
Voluntary weekend hours
This clause permits employees to volunteer for weekend work.
Employees may voluntarily sign up for weekend work, with shifts scheduled between [specific times, e.g., 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM]. Compensation will be provided at the standard or overtime rate, as applicable.
Commuter-adjusted hours
This clause allows employees to adjust hours to accommodate commuting challenges.
Employees with extended commutes may start or end their workday [specific range, e.g., one hour earlier or later] to accommodate travel time. This arrangement must be agreed upon with the employer in advance.
Relief support hours
This clause sets hours for employees providing relief support during crises.
Employees engaged in relief efforts shall work shifts of up to [specific duration, e.g., 12 hours], with at least [specific rest period, e.g., 10 hours] between shifts. Additional compensation may be provided for extended work hours.
Part-day work hours
This clause defines hours for employees working less than a full day.
Employees may work part-day schedules of [specific duration, e.g., 4-6 hours], as agreed upon with the employer. Adjustments to these hours require prior approval.
Job-specific shift hours
This clause customizes hours based on job roles or responsibilities.
Shift hours for each job role shall be determined by operational requirements, typically falling between [specific hours, e.g., 6:00 AM and 10:00 PM]. Employees will be notified of their specific schedule at least [specific notice period, e.g., one week] in advance.
This article contains general legal information and does not contain legal advice. Cobrief is not a law firm or a substitute for an attorney or law firm. The law is complex and changes often. For legal advice, please ask a lawyer.