By: Sandy Smajić · Founder & compliance expert, EmployGuardReviewed by: EmployGuard Compliance-TeamLast updated: 26 June 2026
Key ArbZG rules
- Daily maximum working time: 8 hours, extendable to 10 with compensation.
- Breaks: at least 30 min for 6–9 hours, at least 45 min above 9 hours.
- Uninterrupted rest of at least 11 hours between two working days.
Why this is hard on site
Changing sites, overtime and forgotten break clock-outs easily cause unintentional breaches. Without systematic recording it only surfaces during an audit.
Fines
ArbZG breaches can be fined up to €30,000, with criminal liability for intent. The employer is responsible for compliance.
Automatic checks with EmployGuard
- Automatic break deduction by configurable rules (>6h → 30 min, >9h → 45 min).
- Warnings for exceeding maximum hours and too-short rest.
- Compliance center with Approve/Reject per record.
FAQ
How long is the statutory rest period?
At least 11 uninterrupted hours between the end of one working day and the start of the next (§5 ArbZG).
When are breaks mandatory?
For 6–9 hours at least 30 min, above 9 hours at least 45 min (§4 ArbZG).
Does EmployGuard check compliance automatically?
Yes. It evaluates each shift for breaks, maximum hours and rest, flagging anomalies for approval.