työaikakirjoilla

A työaikakirja, often translated as a work time record or time sheet, is a document or system used in Finland to record the hours worked by an employee. Its primary purpose is to provide a clear and verifiable record of an employee's working time, which is essential for calculating wages, overtime, and ensuring compliance with labor laws. Employers are legally obligated to maintain accurate records of employee working hours.

Työaikakirjat can take various forms. Traditionally, these were paper-based logs where employees would manually enter their start and end times, along with breaks. In modern workplaces, these have largely been replaced by electronic systems. These digital solutions can include clocking-in machines, online portals, or dedicated software applications that employees use to log their hours. Some systems automatically track time, while others still require manual input.

The information typically recorded in a työaikakirja includes the date, the start and end times of the workday, and any breaks taken. It may also include details about overtime hours, on-call duties, or absences, depending on the employer's policy and the specific requirements of the job. Accurate record-keeping is crucial for both the employee and the employer. For employees, it serves as proof of work performed, particularly in cases of dispute. For employers, it is a fundamental requirement for payroll processing and to demonstrate adherence to Finnish labor legislation concerning working hours and rest periods.