As with most countries, the Netherlands imposes rules that enforce restrictions on employees’ working hours in the Netherlands. 12 working hours in the Netherlands is the maximum amount of time that can be worked consecutively and a maximum of 60 hours per week. Should you consider your working hours in the Netherlands over a longer time period then 16 weeks of working should have a maximum of 48 hours worked per week.
When operational longer than 5.5 hours, the contractor has the right to a break of at least 30 minutes. Should the shift last longer than ten working hours in the Netherlands then a minimum of 45 minutes break must be taken. The Collective Labour Agreement (CAO) that applies to the company or sector of work will specify if the break is paid or not. Most companies/employers don’t pay for break or resting times.
Working Hours Netherlands: General Rules
After a day of 8 working hours in the Netherlands or more then a contractor has the right to 11 hours of uninterrupted rest, according to the Dutch Government. After a full working week no work should be undertaken for at least 36 hours.
If working a night shift then ten working hours in the Netherlands is the maximum length any shift may be. If the shift is finishing after 2am then the right is given to a period of 14 hours for resting. In relation to working hours in the Netherlands, night shift is outlined if a contractor works at least an hour between midnight and 6am.
These rules towards working hours in the Netherlands don’t apply if you are an independent contractor, unless the safety of third parties is at stake.
Working Hours Netherlands: Safety
Employers and employees performing working hours in the Netherlands are expected to ensure safe working conditions by working together. In order to avoid numbers of incidents and limit hazardous working conditions, the employer must advise accordingly on the work to be undertaken alongside the associated health and safety risks. This should include working hours in the Netherlands. Indication must also be given as to the measures used and practiced when preventing or limiting risks. As an employee within the Netherlands you are obliged to comply with these instructions that are given.
Working Hours Netherlands: Complaints Procedures
Should a complaint need to be made in regards to working hours in the Netherlands or if there is an accident due to unfair working hours then you can report issues to the Labour Inspectorate. If you are employed through a temporary employment agency then responsibility doesn’t actually lie with that agency, but with the company where you were working at that time. They will then be held accountable in regards to breaches of rules governing working hours in the Netherlands.
In addition to showing your document of identification when starting employment, as an employee you are expected and required to carry your identity documents around with you, whether a temporary or a permanent employee. This is so that the contractor can identify himself or herself when inspected by the Labour Inspectorate, should a complaint regarding working hours in the Netherlands be made.
For more information on Working in Netherlands or Contracting in Europe visit the Euro Accountancy & Finance Services website.
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