Työaikakirjat

Työaikakirjat, often translated as "working time books" or "time books," are official records used in Finland to document the working hours of employees. These records are mandated by Finnish labor law and are crucial for ensuring fair compensation and compliance with regulations regarding working time, rest periods, and overtime. Employers are legally obligated to maintain accurate and up-to-date työaikakirjat for all their employees.

The purpose of työaikakirjat is to provide a clear and verifiable account of when an employee starts and finishes their workday, as well as any breaks taken. This information is essential for calculating wages, particularly for hourly workers, and for identifying any instances of overtime that require additional payment or compensatory time off. Furthermore, these records help in monitoring compliance with legal limits on daily and weekly working hours, as well as mandatory rest periods between shifts and during the working week.

The format and specific requirements for työaikakirjat can vary. While traditional paper-based logs were common, electronic systems are now widely used, offering greater efficiency and accuracy. Regardless of the format, the records must be stored for a specified period, typically several years, to be available for inspection by labor authorities or in case of disputes between employer and employee. Accurate maintenance of työaikakirjat is a fundamental aspect of responsible employment practices in Finland.