Understanding labor regulations is crucial for businesses operating in Bangladesh. The Bangladesh Labour Act, 2006, along with subsequent amendments, governs various aspects of employment, including working hours, overtime, and leave policies. Adhering to these regulations is essential for ensuring compliance and maintaining positive employer-employee relations. This guide provides a detailed overview of the key provisions related to working hours and overtime in Bangladesh as of 2025.
Navigating the complexities of labor law can be challenging. This information is designed to help employers understand their obligations and employees understand their rights regarding working hours and overtime compensation in Bangladesh. Staying informed about these regulations is vital for fostering a fair and productive work environment.
Standard Working Hours
The standard working hours in Bangladesh are generally 8 hours per day and 48 hours per week. This applies to most establishments and industries.
- Daily Limit: 8 hours
- Weekly Limit: 48 hours
Overtime Regulations
Any work exceeding the standard daily or weekly hours is considered overtime. The Labour Act specifies the conditions and compensation for overtime work.
- Overtime Rate: Overtime work must be compensated at twice the regular hourly rate of pay.
- Maximum Overtime: The total hours of work, including overtime, should not exceed 60 hours per week.
- Calculation: Overtime is calculated on an hourly basis and paid in addition to the regular wages.
| Overtime Aspect | Regulation |
|---|---|
| Overtime Rate | 2x the regular hourly rate |
| Maximum Weekly Hours (inc. overtime) | 60 hours |
Rest Periods and Break Entitlements
Employees are entitled to rest periods during their working day. These breaks are essential for ensuring employee well-being and productivity.
- Daily Rest: Employees are typically entitled to at least one hour of rest after working for six consecutive hours. This can be structured as one continuous break or split into shorter intervals.
- Weekly Holiday: Every employee is entitled to at least one full day of rest each week, usually a Sunday or Friday, depending on the establishment's practices.
| Break Type | Entitlement |
|---|---|
| Daily Rest | At least 1 hour after 6 hours of work |
| Weekly Holiday | 1 full day of rest per week |
Night Shift and Weekend Work Regulations
Specific regulations apply to employees working night shifts or on weekends. These provisions often include additional compensation or benefits.
- Night Shift Allowance: While not explicitly mandated in all sectors, it is common practice to provide an additional allowance for employees working night shifts. The amount can vary based on company policy or collective bargaining agreements.
- Weekend Work: If an employee is required to work on their designated weekly holiday, they are entitled to a substitute holiday or overtime pay at twice the regular rate.
Working Time Recording Obligations
Employers in Bangladesh have a legal obligation to maintain accurate records of employee working hours. These records are crucial for demonstrating compliance with labor laws and ensuring fair compensation.
- Attendance Records: Employers must maintain detailed attendance records for all employees, including daily working hours, overtime hours, and any periods of leave or absence.
- Wage Registers: Accurate wage registers must be maintained, showing the calculation of regular wages, overtime payments, and any deductions.
- Inspection: These records must be readily available for inspection by labor authorities. Failure to maintain accurate records can result in penalties.
- Record Retention: Employers are generally required to retain these records for a specified period, typically three to six years, to comply with auditing and legal requirements.
