As the gig economy continues to grow, so does the debate around what constitutes fair contracted hours for workers. With more and more people relying on contracts instead of full-time employment, it`s become increasingly important to determine what constitutes “fair” when it comes to working hours.
So, what are fair contracted hours?
In essence, fair contracted hours are those that provide workers with a reasonable amount of work without overburdening them. This means that workers should be able to work enough to earn a living wage, but not so much that they are unable to maintain a healthy work-life balance.
Many experts agree that a fair contracted hour cap should be set at 48 hours per week, with the option for workers to opt-out of this cap if they choose to.
The reasoning behind this cap is simple – research shows that working more than 48 hours a week can have a detrimental effect on a worker`s physical and mental health. Workers who work long hours are at a higher risk of developing stress-related illnesses, heart disease, and even depression.
Additionally, long hours can lead to increased absenteeism, lower productivity rates, and higher turnover, leading to a negative impact on the employer`s bottom line.
When it comes to calculating contracted hours, it`s important to consider all of the work-related tasks that the worker will be responsible for. This includes not only the time spent on the job site but also any travel time, necessary training, and other related tasks.
To ensure that workers are given adequate time to rest and recover, employers should also provide sufficient break times. This means at least a 20-minute break for every six hours worked, and a minimum of 11 hours of rest time between shifts.
In conclusion, fair contracted hours are those that provide workers with a livable wage while maintaining a healthy work-life balance. It`s essential for employers to take their workers` physical and mental health into consideration when determining contracted hours, and ensure that they are providing ample break and rest times. By doing so, employers can not only attract and retain top talent but also boost their overall productivity and bottom line.