Work Hour Regulations
Work Hours and Rest Days Regulations in Singapore
In Singapore, the Employment Act governs the work hours, rest days and overtime pay of employees. It's important for both employers and employees to understand these regulations to ensure fair treatment in the workplace.
Standard Work Hours
The standard work hours in Singapore are as follows:
- A maximum of 9 hours per day or 44 hours per week for a 5-day work week.
- A maximum of 8 hours per day or 44 hours per week for a 6-day work week.
Rest Days
Every employee is entitled to one rest day per week. The rest day can be mutually agreed upon by the employer and employee, but if no agreement is made, the employer will determine the rest day.
Overtime Work
If an employee works beyond the standard hours, they are entitled to overtime pay. The overtime rate should not be less than 1.5 times the hourly basic rate of pay. The maximum amount of overtime work allowed is 72 hours per month.
Common FAQs
1. What happens if I work on a rest day?
If an employee works on a rest day, they are entitled to one day's salary or a replacement rest day within the same work week.
2. What are the rules for part-time workers?
Part-time employees who work less than 35 hours per week have the same basic key employment entitlements as full-time employees, including paid public holidays, sick leave, and annual leave on a pro-rated basis.
3. Are there exceptions to these regulations?
Yes, managers and executives with monthly basic salaries of more than SGD 4,500 are not covered by certain provisions of the Employment Act, including those relating to rest days, hours of work, and overtime.
4. Are there special regulations for shift work?
Yes, shift workers are covered under the Employment Act, and their hours of work and overtime are calculated differently. For example, shift workers can work up to 12 hours a day, provided that the average work hours per week do not exceed 44 over a continuous 3-week period.
5. What is the penalty for employers who violate these regulations?
Employers who violate the Employment Act may face penalties including fines and imprisonment. It's important for employers to understand and comply with these regulations to avoid penalties.