Työaikajärjestelmissä

Työaikajärjestelmissä refers to the various systems and regulations governing working hours in Finland. These systems are designed to ensure fair treatment of employees, promote productivity, and maintain a balance between work and personal life. The primary legislation concerning working hours is the Working Time Act (Työaikalaki).

The Working Time Act defines standard working hours, which are typically 40 hours per week or an average of 37.5 hours over a period of 4 to 12 months. Overtime work, which is work performed beyond standard hours, is regulated and compensated at a higher rate. The law also sets limits on daily and weekly rest periods to prevent employee exhaustion and promote well-being.

Different working time arrangements exist to accommodate various industries and job roles. These include flextime (liukuva työaika), which allows employees some flexibility in choosing their start and end times, and compressed workweeks, where the same number of hours is worked over fewer days. Shift work (vuorotyö) is also common, with arrangements varying based on the needs of the employer and the nature of the work.

Collective agreements (työehtosopimukset) often supplement the Working Time Act, providing more specific details on working hours, overtime, and rest periods for different sectors. These agreements are negotiated between employer organizations and trade unions. Employers are responsible for maintaining accurate records of employee working hours, including start and end times, breaks, and any overtime worked. Compliance with these regulations is crucial for both employers and employees.