UK might follow Europe in fining employers who message staff after-hours
The UK government is considering legislation to impose fines on employers contacting employees outside working hours, aiming to improve work-life balance and establish clear communication boundaries, similar to other European countries.
Read original article
The UK government is contemplating legislation that would impose fines on employers who contact employees outside of working hours, aligning with similar laws in several European countries. This initiative, led by the Labour government, aims to establish "right to switch off" policies, which would legally require employers to set clear boundaries regarding after-hours communication through emails, WhatsApp, and other messaging platforms. The move comes as the UK seeks to enhance work-life balance for employees, who currently enjoy more annual leave and shorter working hours compared to their US counterparts. Countries like Germany and France have already implemented such regulations, with Germany banning out-of-hours emails since 2013 and France mandating companies to define communication hours. The UK is still in the process of determining how these policies would be enforced and the potential penalties for non-compliance, which could mirror those in Portugal, where fines can reach €10,000. While some employees appreciate the flexibility of remote work, there are concerns that rigid boundaries may not align with everyone's preferences. The government acknowledges the need for policies to be tailored to individual workplaces, considering the impact on smaller businesses.
- The UK is considering fines for employers contacting staff after hours.
- Proposed "right to switch off" policies aim to establish clear communication boundaries.
- The initiative seeks to improve work-life balance for employees.
- Other European countries have already implemented similar regulations.
- The government is assessing the impact on businesses, especially smaller ones.
Related
Greece introduces 'growth-oriented' six-day working week
Greece implements a controversial six-day working week to enhance productivity due to labor shortages. The measure allows longer hours with extra pay, sparking criticism from unions and concerns about work-life balance.
A WFH 'culture war' has broken out across Europe
A culture war over remote and hybrid working in Europe sees the U.K. as the most WFH-friendly, contrasting with France. Factors include education, Wi-Fi, lockdown experiences, sector mix, and individualism. Balancing preferences and concerns is crucial for future work arrangements.
Greece starts six-day working week for some industries
Greece implements a six-day working week with up to 48 hours, offering 40% overtime pay to boost the economy and combat tax evasion. The move aligns with European standards but contrasts global trends.
Greece adopts six-day work week to boost productivity. Experts have doubts
Greece introduces a six-day workweek with up to 48 hours and 40% overtime pay increase. Critics warn of negative effects like turnover and burnout. Global trend favors shorter workweeks for productivity and well-being.
Greece's Six-Day Workweek Is a Recipe for Disaster
Greece's voluntary six-day workweek for continuous businesses faces criticism for potentially exploiting workers and harming the economy, contrasting with global trends toward shorter workweeks that enhance worker well-being.
1 commentsRelated
Greece introduces 'growth-oriented' six-day working week
Greece implements a controversial six-day working week to enhance productivity due to labor shortages. The measure allows longer hours with extra pay, sparking criticism from unions and concerns about work-life balance.
A WFH 'culture war' has broken out across Europe
A culture war over remote and hybrid working in Europe sees the U.K. as the most WFH-friendly, contrasting with France. Factors include education, Wi-Fi, lockdown experiences, sector mix, and individualism. Balancing preferences and concerns is crucial for future work arrangements.
Greece starts six-day working week for some industries
Greece implements a six-day working week with up to 48 hours, offering 40% overtime pay to boost the economy and combat tax evasion. The move aligns with European standards but contrasts global trends.
Greece adopts six-day work week to boost productivity. Experts have doubts
Greece introduces a six-day workweek with up to 48 hours and 40% overtime pay increase. Critics warn of negative effects like turnover and burnout. Global trend favors shorter workweeks for productivity and well-being.
Greece's Six-Day Workweek Is a Recipe for Disaster
Greece's voluntary six-day workweek for continuous businesses faces criticism for potentially exploiting workers and harming the economy, contrasting with global trends toward shorter workweeks that enhance worker well-being.