Working Hours and Overtime
Comprehensive guide to working hours, overtime regulations, and rest period requirements in Sri Lanka.
Standard Working Hours
Shop and Office Employees
45 hours/week
- ✓ 8 hours per day maximum
- ✓ 5.5 working days per week
- ✓ Half-day on Saturday
- ✓ Sunday as weekly holiday
Factory Workers
48 hours/week
- ✓ 8 hours per day for adults
- ✓ 12 hours limit for 16-18 years
- ✓ Mandatory rest periods
- ✓ Weekly holiday required
Overtime Regulations
Compensation Rate
Minimum 1.25 times normal rate
- ✓ Higher rates may apply by industry
- ✓ Double rate for public holidays
- ✓ Premium for night shift work
- ✓ Special rates for emergency work
Calculation Method
Based on basic salary
- ✓ Excludes allowances
- ✓ Prorated for partial hours
- ✓ Monthly calculation cycle
- ✓ Separate holiday rates
Rest Periods and Breaks
Daily Breaks
- ✓ Meal break after 5 hours
- ✓ Rest intervals as needed
- ✓ Minimum 30-minute break
- ✓ Not counted as work time
Weekly Rest
- ✓ One full day mandatory
- ✓ Additional half-day common
- ✓ Typically Sunday off
- ✓ Alternative day if worked
Special Breaks
- ✓ Nursing breaks for mothers
- ✓ Religious prayer times
- ✓ Medical rest periods
- ✓ Emergency breaks
Night Shift Regulations
Definition
11 consecutive hours between 10 PM and 5 AM
Age Restrictions
No persons under 18 years allowed
Female Workers
Special permission required from Labour Commissioner
Additional Benefits
Night shift allowance common but not mandatory
Weekend Work Policies
Compensation
- ✓ Minimum 1.25x normal rate
- ✓ Double rate on public holidays
- ✓ Compensatory leave option
- ✓ Additional meal allowance
Restrictions
- ✓ Maximum hours apply
- ✓ Voluntary basis preferred
- ✓ Advance notice required
- ✓ Rest day substitution
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