Compressed Work Week
Compressed work weeks are an alternative work schedule that allows employees to work more hours per day but work fewer days per week. One example is the 4/40 program in which an employee works four 10-hour days and takes the fifth day off. This results in reducing 20 percent of an employees commute, and allows employees to avoid rush hour. Another example is a 9/80, whereby employees can work eight-nine hour days, one eight hour day and take the tenth day off. In a 9/80 schedule, employees have a three day weekend every other week. Compressed work weeks have a positive impact on morale, productivity and job satisfaction for the employee and companies are able to recruit and retain valuable skilled workers by offering such strategies.
Benefits for the Employer
- Increased productivity
- Improved employee morale
- Lower staff turnover
- Reduced tardiness and absenteeism
- Extended customer service hours
- Recruitment incentives
- Reduced parking demand and congestion around the work site
Benefits for the Employee
- Improved job satisfaction
- Reduced commute time and stress
- Increased flexibility in managing personal and professional lives
- May reduce problems with childcare pick-up and drop-off
- More ridesharing options
Resources
Compressed Work Week and Labor Law
