Understanding and adhering to labor laws is crucial for businesses operating in Gambia. These laws ensure fair treatment of employees and promote a productive work environment. This guide provides a detailed overview of the regulations surrounding standard working hours and overtime in Gambia as of 2025, helping employers stay compliant and maintain positive employee relations.
Standard Working Hours
The standard workweek in Gambia generally consists of 40 hours per week, spread across five days. The typical workday is eight hours long.
- Daily Limit: 8 hours
- Weekly Limit: 40 hours
Overtime Regulations and Compensation
Any work performed beyond the standard 40-hour workweek is considered overtime. Gambian labor law stipulates that employees are entitled to overtime pay for these extra hours.
| Overtime Hours | Compensation Rate compensated at a rate of one and a half times the employee's regular hourly rate.
- Overtime Rate: 1.5x regular hourly rate
Rest Periods and Break Entitlements
Employees are entitled to daily and weekly rest periods to ensure their well-being and productivity.
- Daily Rest: Employees are generally entitled to a minimum daily rest period, the specifics of which should be clearly defined in their employment contracts or collective bargaining agreements.
- Weekly Rest: Employees are typically entitled to at least one day of rest per week, often observed on Sundays.
Night Shift and Weekend Work Regulations
Work performed during night shifts or on weekends may have specific regulations and compensation considerations.
- Night Shift: While specific regulations for night shift work may vary, employers should ensure adequate rest and safety measures for employees working during these hours.
- Weekend Work: Work on weekends, particularly on the designated weekly rest day, may be subject to overtime pay or compensatory time off, depending on the specific employment agreement and industry practices.
Working Time Recording Obligations for Employers
Employers in Gambia have a responsibility to accurately record the working hours of their employees. This includes:
- Accurate Records: Maintaining precise records of hours worked, including regular hours and overtime.
- Accessibility: Ensuring that these records are accessible for inspection by labor authorities.
- Compliance: Using these records to calculate and provide correct compensation, including overtime pay.
By adhering to these regulations, employers can foster a fair and productive work environment while remaining compliant with Gambian labor laws.
