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Palestine

Working Hours and Overtime Regulations

Understand the laws governing work hours and overtime in Palestine

Standard working hours

In Palestine, the standard working hours are regulated by the Labour Law No. (7) of 2000. The law establishes a 45-hour workweek as the standard for most occupations, which translates to an average of nine hours per day for a five-day workweek.

The law also acknowledges potential variations in working hours depending on the nature of the job. For instance, workers in hazardous or health-damaging occupations are entitled to a shorter workday with at least a one-hour reduction in daily working hours.

Overtime

In Palestine, the labor law outlines the regulations and compensation for overtime work. The maximum permitted overtime work is twelve hours per week. Overtime work is compensated at a rate of one and a half times the regular hourly wage.

Rest periods and breaks

Palestinian Labour Law No. (7) of 2000 outlines the minimum entitlements for rest periods and breaks for workers.

Workers are entitled to a paid weekly rest period of at least 24 consecutive hours. The law allows for an agreement between the employer and employee to accumulate weekly rest periods and take them once a month.

Friday is the designated weekly rest day (holiday) in Palestine. In certain situations, the work itself may necessitate a different rest day. If so, the chosen alternative day must be provided to the worker consistently.

It's important to note that the Labour Law does not explicitly mention mandated breaks during the workday. Specific details regarding breaks may be outlined in individual employment contracts or collective bargaining agreements.

Night shift and weekend regulations

Palestinian labor law provides specific regulations for night shifts and weekend work to ensure fair treatment and compensation for employees.

Night shift work is defined as working hours that fall partially or entirely between 7:00 PM and 8:00 AM. Employers are required to pay a night shift allowance on top of the regular wage. The specific amount is not fixed by law and is subject to negotiation between employers and employees or stipulated in collective bargaining agreements. Night shift workers are entitled to shorter working hours compared to day shifts. The exact reduction is not specified, but it should ensure they work fewer hours per day or week while maintaining their overall pay. Employers have a responsibility to provide a safe and healthy work environment for night shift workers. This may include proper lighting, ventilation, and breaks to minimize fatigue.

Friday is the official weekly day of rest in Palestine. Certain sectors, like healthcare, hospitality, and security, may require employees to work on Fridays. However, employers must obtain prior permission from the Ministry of Labor. Employees who work on Fridays are entitled to compensatory rest time or overtime pay, typically at a higher rate than regular wages. Specific details on compensation rates are often determined by sectoral regulations or collective bargaining agreements.

It's important to consult the latest version of Law No. 7 of 2002 ("Labor Law") and any relevant sectoral regulations for the most up-to-date information on night shift and weekend work regulations in Palestine.

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