Working Hours
The requirements for organising working hours are regulated in the Working Hours Act ("Arbeitszeitgesetz"). The Working Hours Act generally applies to all workers, employees and trainees. The act avoids stipulating legal requirements for organising working hours that go beyond what is necessary for protecting the health of employees. In particular it regulates the maximum working hours per day, breaks, and the minimum rest periods following the work time. It also generally prohibits employment on Sundays and on statutory holidays. Within the framework of the act, the specific working hours are stipulated in collective bargaining agreements, company agreements and/or in contracts of employment.
The occupational health authorities in the various federal states (e.g. the Factory Inspectorate ("Gewerbeaufsichtsamt"), Health and Safety Executive ("Amt für Arbeitsschutz") are responsible for ensuring that the Working Hours Act is complied with.
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