Hours of work: Overview, definition and example
What are hours of work?
Hours of work refer to the number of hours an employee is required to work during a specific period, typically set by an employment agreement or company policy. This clause outlines the standard work schedule, including the start and end times of the workday, weekly hours, and expectations for overtime, if applicable. Hours of work may vary depending on the nature of the job, industry standards, or applicable labor laws.
For example, a full-time employee might work 40 hours per week, while a part-time employee may work fewer hours.
Why are hours of work important?
Hours of work are important because they establish clear expectations for both the employer and the employee regarding work schedules and compensation. A well-defined hours of work provision helps ensure compliance with labor laws, including those related to overtime, breaks, and rest periods, and promotes fairness and consistency in managing employees’ time.
By clearly outlining work hours, companies reduce the risk of disputes over compensation, scheduling, and workload expectations.
Understanding hours of work through an example
A marketing firm hires a project manager to work a standard 40-hour week, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. The employment agreement specifies that any hours worked beyond 40 hours per week will be compensated at a rate of time-and-a-half. This ensures that both the employee and the employer understand the work schedule and the terms for additional hours.
An example of an hours of work clause
Here’s how an hours of work clause might appear in an employment contract:
“The Employee agrees to work a standard schedule of 40 hours per week, Monday through Friday, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with a 1-hour unpaid lunch break. The Employee may be required to work additional hours as necessary to fulfill job responsibilities, and such overtime will be compensated at a rate of time-and-a-half for any hours worked beyond 40 hours per week.”
Conclusion
Hours of work provisions are essential for managing employee schedules, ensuring compliance with labor laws, and establishing fair compensation practices. By clearly defining work hours and overtime policies, contracts provide clarity and prevent misunderstandings between employers and employees. A well-drafted hours of work clause promotes transparency, fairness, and legal compliance.
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.