The statistics of normal working hours in enterprises (NW) has been providing data on the weekly working hours of full-time employees since 1942 (normal hours = hours excluding overtime and absences). The economic sectors covered has changed over time (1942-1972: only industry and construction, 1973-1988: excluding agriculture, from 1990: all economic sectors).
Over a period of 30 years, the normal weekly hours worked by full-time employees recorded a decline: they fell from 45.1 to 41.7 hours per week between 1973 and 2003, i.e. a reduction of 3 hours and 21 minutes. Since 2003, the normal weekly hours have remained very stable.
Comparison between normal working hours from the WV and NW
A comparison between the normal working hours from the work volume statistics (WV) and the statistics on normal working hours in enterprises (NW) can be found in chapter 4.9 of the “labour market indicators” publication.
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Further information
Statistical sources and concepts
Contact
Federal Statistical Office Section Labour ForceEspace de l'Europe 10
CH-2010 Neuchâtel
Switzerland