HoursWorked

Hours worked refers to the amount of time a person spends performing tasks for pay or profit during a specified period. It is commonly reported as hours per week or hours per year. The exact inclusions vary by dataset, but most measures count time on the job when work is being performed and overtime as additional hours; paid time off or holidays may be included or excluded depending on the source.

Common metrics include average hours per worker, total hours worked by a group, and total hours in a reference period. In some statistics, hours are separated into regular hours and overtime to show intensity of work. Part-time workers contribute differently than full-time workers, and self-employed hours can be measured separately to reflect different labor arrangements.

Hours worked are used to gauge labor input for macroeconomic indicators such as GDP, to study productivity and wage dynamics, and to assess labor market slack and cycles. They also inform policy discussions on overtime rules, work-life balance, and social protection programs.

Data come from national statistics offices, international organizations, employer payroll records, and time-use surveys. Differences in definitions and coverage across countries can limit comparability. Hours worked do not capture work intensity, multitasking, unpaid work, or the quality of work, and surveys may undercount certain groups such as self-employed or marginalized workers.