What is core working time?
Core working time is a fixed period within a working day during which employees are obliged to be present and available. It forms the core of many flexitime models and serves to promote teamwork and ensure operational processes. Outside of core working hours, employees can organize their working hours more flexibly.
Definition and duration of core working hours
Core working hours are determined by the employer and are often agreed in consultation with the works council. This regulation can be laid down in works agreements, service instructions or employment contracts. The duration of core working hours varies depending on company requirements, but is usually between four and six hours per working day. It is important that the core working time is shorter than the total daily working time in order to allow employees flexibility in organizing their working time.
Example of a flexitime arrangement with core working hours:
- Total working hours: 7:00 – 18:00
- Core working hours: 9:30 – 15:00
- Flexible working hours before core time (lead-in time): 7:00 – 9:30 a.m.
- Flexible working hours after the core time (time off): 15:00 – 18:00
In this model, employees can start their working day between 7:00 and 9:30 and finish between 15:00 and 18:00, but must be present and available during the core working hours from 9:30 to 15:00.
Special features for part-time and home office
For part-time employees, adhering to core working hours can be a challenge, especially if their daily working hours are shorter than the specified core hours. In such cases, individual arrangements should be made to ensure that working hours and core working hours are compatible. Core working hours also apply when working from home. Employees must be available during this time, for example by telephone or email.
Advantages and disadvantages of core working hours
Advantages:
- Promotion of cooperation through simultaneous presence.
- Facilitate the planning of meetings and projects.
- Ensuring accessibility for customers and partners.
Disadvantages:
- Restriction of individual flexibility.
- Possible difficulties for part-time employees.
- Increased administrative effort for time tracking.
Consequences of non-compliance
Repeatedly missing core working hours can have consequences under employment law, such as warnings or salary cuts. It is important that employees are informed about the importance of core working hours and take compliance seriously.
Monitoring core working hours
Core working hours are usually monitored using time recording systems. Digital solutions enable precise recording and evaluation of working times, which promotes both compliance with core working hours and transparency for employees and managers.
Conclusion
Core working time is an effective tool for structuring operational processes and strengthening teamwork. It can be successfully integrated into everyday working life through clear rules and the use of modern time recording systems.