EU Working Time Directive - FAQ

Adam Sonesson

Adam brings you the latest knowledge about technology and Artificial Intelligence.

According to the ruling of the European Court of Justice (ECJ), the obligation to track working time applies to all employers in the EU, regardless of company size or sector.

As a company specialising in Professional Services Automation, including time tracking, TimeLog understands the importance of staying up to date with the latest regulations and laws.

Many companies have questions about the recent implementation of the working time directive in the EU.

To help clarify, TimeLog has compiled an FAQ with the most important questions and answers about the working time directive in the EU.

What is the working time directive in the EU?
Who does the working time directive apply to?

The Working Time Directive applies to all companies operating within the EU, except for certain industries such as hospitals, fire and civil protection services, industries with uninterrupted work, and agriculture. This means that if a company has employees working in the EU, it must follow the directive and have a system in place to accurately track the daily working hours of its employees.

It's important to note that simply setting up a time tracking system isn't enough. Employers must also make sure that it's being used properly to ensure that employees' rights are protected.
Why is the working time directive important?

The Working Time Directive helps protect the rights of workers by ensuring that they are fairly compensated for their time. By accurately tracking the daily working hours of employees, companies can make sure they are following labor laws and regulations, and that their employees aren't working too many hours.

This promotes a healthy work-life balance and helps prevent burnout, leading to a happier and more productive workforce. Additionally, it helps companies to comply with the law and avoid any legal issues.

Read more about the conditions of the new Directive here!
How can a time tracking software help companies comply with the working time directive?

A time tracking software like TimeLog can help companies comply with the working time directive by providing an objective, reliable, and easy-to-use system to measure the daily working hours of each employee.

With this software, companies can easily track and monitor the hours worked by their employees, generate reports, and gain insights to help them monitor compliance with the directive. This streamlines the process of time tracking and ensures that companies are fully compliant with the directive.
What are the consequences of not complying with the working time directive?

Companies that don't comply with the Working Time Directive may face legal action and fines. But the consequences of non-compliance go beyond just financial penalties. Not following the law can also damage a company's reputation and cause a loss of trust from employees and customers. That's why it's important for companies to take the necessary steps to ensure they are fully compliant with the law.
What should companies do to prepare for the implementation of the working time directive?

To get ready for the implementation of the Working Time Directive, companies should review their current time tracking practices and assess whether they meet the requirements of the directive.

This may involve implementing new systems or processes to accurately track the daily working hours of employees. Companies should also consider using a time tracking software to help them comply with the directive and make the process of time tracking easier and more efficient.
Where can companies find more information about the working time directive?

Companies can find more information about the Working Time Directive on the European Court of Justice website and through their local labor authorities.

They can also consult with legal experts and industry associations for guidance on how to comply with the directive. It's important for companies to stay up to date with the latest developments and ensure that they are fully compliant with the law.
How can you stay up to date in TimeLog about the directive?

TimeLog is committed to helping its customers stay up to date with the latest developments in the working time directive. You can stay informed by regularly checking the TimeLog website and blog for updates and news about the directive.

TimeLog also offers webinars and training sessions to help its customers understand the law and how to comply with it. Additionally, you can contact TimeLog's customer success team for any questions or concerns you may have.
Is TimeLog compliant with the working time directive?

Yes, TimeLog is fully compliant with the working time directive in the EU. TimeLog's time tracking software provides an objective, reliable, and accessible system to measure the daily working hours of each employee, helping companies to comply with the law.

TimeLog is committed to ensuring that its software meets the highest standards of compliance and is regularly updated to reflect any changes in the directive.

Maximum flexibility in time tracking with a cloud-based PSA software
Flexibilität mit Hilfe von Software

Flexibility plays a significant role when it comes to time tracking.

Your employees must be able to track their time wherever they are, regardless of whether they are away on an appointment or working from home.

To ensure this flexibility, you can store Excel timesheets on your server. However, it is more convenient with cloud-based PSA software because it is available everywhere and can be used on various end devices.

It also offers numerous other functions for projects, tasks, resource management, billing, controlling and reporting.

One such PSA software is TimeLog. It offers your employees complete flexibility because it works as a desktop solution, in the browser, on smartphones and tablets.

With a few clicks, your employees can start the live timer and track project hours, vacation days, absences and even mileage. Integration options with programs such as Outlook further simplify time tracking.

With TimeLog, setting up an effective and efficient system to meet your time and attendance obligations is easy.

Try TimeLog for 30 days and see how your company can benefit from TimeLog's time tracking and many other features.