Deviations to working time regulations

The Health and Safety at Work Act allows for deviations to the rules on resting time and days off in emergencies such as the current coronavirus pandemic.

This is according to the Work Environment and Fire Safety Authority, which has given the green light to workplaces deemed to be under exceptional pressure due to the corona outbreak to deviate from the rules and reduce the compulsory 11-hour minimum uninterrupted rest period to eight hours.

These workplaces include hospitals, 24-hour care centres, home care services and emergency services.

Sundays and holidays

These workplaces will also be allowed to deviate from the rules regarding work on Sundays and holidays. Food supply companies are also included in this group.

The Work Environment and Fire Safety Authority is keen to point out that despite the severity of the situation, safety at work should always be a priority.

Staff in these sectors are entitled to time off at a later date as compensation for their efforts.

Translated by prosa.fo