Labor law in Switzerland is an important issue for workers and employers in the country. Switzerland is known for its thriving economy and vibrant job market, but that doesn’t mean workers and employers don’t need to know about labor laws and regulations. In this article, we will examine the main aspects of labor law in Switzerland.
The duration of work
Working hours in Switzerland are regulated by the Federal Labor Act (LTr) and vary depending on the sector of activity. The maximum working time is 45 hours per week for workers in industrial enterprises and 50 hours per week for workers in other sectors. Workers are also entitled to a break of at least 30 minutes for each work period of more than 5.5 hours.
Workers are also entitled to a weekly 24-hour rest day, usually Sunday. Employers can derogate from this rule in certain sectors, but workers are then entitled to another day of weekly rest.
Protection against dismissal
Switzerland has legal protection against dismissal, which aims to protect workers against unfair dismissal. The LTr stipulates that employers must have a valid reason for dismissing a worker. Valid reasons include gross negligence, business reorganization, bankruptcy, prolonged incapacity for work or retirement.
If a worker is dismissed without a valid reason, he can challenge the dismissal before the labor court. If the court considers that the dismissal was unfair, it can order the reinstatement of the worker and/or compensation for the damage suffered.
Paid vacation
Workers in Switzerland are entitled to a certain number of paid vacation days each year. The number of days off varies according to the worker’s age and seniority. As a general rule, workers are entitled to at least four weeks of paid leave per year. Workers are also entitled to paid days off for public holidays and family events, such as weddings or births.
Discrimination
Discrimination in the workplace is prohibited in Switzerland. The federal law on equality between women and men (LEg) prohibits discrimination based on sex. The Federal Anti-Racism Act (LCR) prohibits discrimination based on race, national or ethnic origin, religion or belief.
Workers who believe they have been discriminated against can file a complaint with the labor court. If the court finds that there has been discrimination, it can order the worker’s reinstatement and/or compensation for the harm suffered.
Salaries
Wages in Switzerland are regulated by the law on minimum wages (LTrM). The law sets minimum wages for unskilled workers and skilled workers in certain industries. Minimum wages vary by geographic region and industry.
In addition to minimum wages, workers are entitled to fair pay for their work. Salary should be in line with industry standards and reflect the qualifications and experience of the worker.
Extra time
Overtime is hours worked beyond normal working hours. Workers are entitled to additional pay for overtime. Additional compensation may be in the form of paid overtime or recovery time.
The Federal Labor Law (LTr) provides for a limit of 170 overtime hours per calendar year. Workers can work up to two overtime hours per day or up to 140 overtime hours per calendar year without the employer’s permission. Overtime beyond this limit requires the permission of the employer.
Safety and health at work
Workers have the right to a safe and healthy working environment in Switzerland. The Worker Protection Act (LPTr) aims to protect the health and safety of workers. Employers are required to take measures to prevent accidents and occupational diseases.
Workers also have the right to refuse to work under unsafe conditions. If a worker believes that their work presents a danger to their health or safety, they can refuse to work and inform their employer of the situation.
Labor relations
Labor relations between workers and employers are regulated by the Federal Law on Labor Relations (LRT). The LRT stipulates that trav