Better working hours
Most collective agreements signed in the winter of 2019-2020 include provisions allowing for changes in working time arrangements and a reduction of the workweek to as little as 36 active working hours per week. However, this does not apply to all labor unions, as various groups have a different implementation of work obligations than the traditional 40-hour work week, such as primary school teachers.
Goals of better working hours
The main goal of these changes is to promote improvements in workplace operations, enhance workplace culture and time management, without compromising efficiency and service quality. It aims to provide better flexibility and support improved living conditions and work-life balance. Changes to work arrangements and reduced working hours require preparation and planning by employees and management.
Better working hours for daytime workers
Improving workplace culture and utilizing time better are among the primary goals of shortening the work week. Discussions on better working hours for each workplace are a prerequisite for shortening the day time workers working week. The implementation takes into account the activities of each workplace and can therefore vary between workplaces.
Better working hours for shift workers
Extensive changes were negotiated to the work environment and wage-setting system in shift work in order to improve the working conditions of employees and managers. The goal of the changes is to promote better health and safety for employees, as well as to increase the balance between work and personal life so that jobs in shift work become more desirable. They should also increase staffing stability, reduce the need for overtime, and improve safety and public services.
Tool kit
The Better Working Hours toolkit includes guidelines, presentations, templates, checklists, rules, and more to help implement Better Working Hours.