Understanding and complying with local labor laws is crucial for companies operating internationally. In Mauritania, regulations govern working hours, overtime, rest periods, and employer obligations to ensure fair treatment and safe working conditions for employees. These rules define the standard workweek, specify how overtime should be calculated and compensated, and mandate necessary breaks and rest periods throughout the day and week.
Adhering to these regulations is not just a legal requirement but also contributes to positive employee relations and operational stability. Employers must maintain accurate records of working time and ensure that all practices align with the provisions set forth in Mauritanian labor legislation.
Standard Working Hours and Workweek
The standard legal working week in Mauritania is set at 40 hours. This is typically spread over five or six days, depending on the employer's structure and the nature of the work. The maximum daily working limit is generally 8 hours. However, collective agreements or specific industry regulations may allow for variations, provided the weekly maximum is not exceeded without triggering overtime provisions.
Overtime Regulations and Compensation
Work performed beyond the standard 40 hours per week is considered overtime. Overtime work must generally be authorized and is subject to specific compensation rates. The maximum amount of overtime an employee can work is also regulated, although specific limits can vary.
Overtime compensation rates are typically calculated as a premium on the employee's standard hourly wage. These rates increase depending on when the overtime is worked (day, night, weekend, or public holiday).
| Type of Overtime Work | Minimum Compensation Rate (Premium on Standard Wage) |
|---|---|
| Overtime during the day | 15% |
| Overtime during the night | 50% |
| Overtime on weekends | 50% |
| Overtime on public holidays | 100% |
- Night work is generally defined as work performed between 9 PM and 5 AM.
- Weekend work typically refers to work on the designated weekly rest day, which is usually Friday.
Rest Periods and Break Entitlements
Mauritanian labor law mandates specific rest periods to protect employee health and well-being.
- Daily Rest: Employees are entitled to a minimum daily rest period between working days.
- Weekly Rest: A mandatory weekly rest period of at least 24 consecutive hours is required, typically granted on Friday.
- Breaks During Workday: Employees are entitled to breaks during the workday, although the specific duration and timing may depend on the total hours worked and company policy, in line with general labor principles ensuring adequate rest during shifts.
Night Shift and Weekend Work Regulations
Work performed during night hours or on the designated weekly rest day (usually Friday) or public holidays is subject to specific regulations and higher compensation rates, as detailed in the overtime section. Employers must ensure that employees working these shifts receive the correct premium pay and that regulations regarding health and safety for night workers are observed. Specific rules may apply to the duration and frequency of night shifts.
Working Time Recording Obligations
Employers in Mauritania are legally required to maintain accurate records of the working hours for all employees. These records must clearly show:
- The start and end times of each workday.
- Any breaks taken during the workday.
- The total number of hours worked each day and week.
- Any overtime hours worked, including the dates and times.
These records are essential for demonstrating compliance with working hour limits, overtime compensation requirements, and rest period entitlements. They must be kept up-to-date and made available for inspection by labor authorities upon request. Accurate record-keeping is a fundamental aspect of labor law compliance for all employers.
