Section 10-5. Calculating average normal working hours
(1) The employer and the employee may in writing agree that normal working hours may be arranged in such a way that, on average, during a period not exceeding 52 weeks, they are no longer than prescribed by section 10-4, but that the total working hours do not exceed ten hours per 24 hours and 48 hours per seven days. The limit of 48 hours per seven days may be calculated based on a fixed average over eight weeks provided that normal working hours do not exceed 50 hours in any one week.(2) The employer and the employees' elected representatives in undertakings bound by a collective pay agreement may in writing agree that normal working hours shall be arranged in such a way that on average, during a period not exceeding 52 weeks, they are no longer than prescribed by section 10-4, but that the normal working hours do not exceed twelve and one-half hours per 24 hours and 48 hours per seven days. The limit of 48 hours per seven days may be calculated according to a fixed average over eight weeks provided, however, normal working hours do not exceed 54 hours in any one week. When entering into an agreement involving normal working hours exceeding 10 hours per 24 hours, particular regard shall be paid to the employees' health and welfare.(3) The Labour Inspection Authority may consent to normal working hours that on average, during a period not exceeding 26 weeks, are no longer than prescribed by section 10-4, but that the total working hours do not exceed 13 hours per 24 hours and 48 hours per seven days. The limit of 48 hours per seven days may be calculated according to a fixed average over eight weeks. Before the Labour Inspection Authority makes its decision, the working hour arrangements shall be discussed with the employees' elected representatives. Records of these discussions and a draft work schedule shall be enclosed with the application. When making its decision, the Labour Inspection Authority shall attach particular importance to the health and welfare of the employees.
