Navigating Work Hours During Carnival Season

The festive Carnival season is approaching, yet it is important to note that these days are not designated public holidays. This raises questions about pharmacy opening hours and the scheduling of staff during this period.

Pharmacy management may choose to close the pharmacy during peak Carnival days, such as Rose Monday. In such cases, adjustments can be made to the weekly working hours by redistributing them within the framework of an annual working time account. However, it is crucial that employees maintain at least 75% of their contracted working hours. Additionally, with prior agreement from management, employees may opt to take time off from their accrued overtime.

A closure does not necessarily mean that employees are exempt from work obligations. In situations where the pharmacy is closed, employers may require staff to conduct essential tasks, such as inventory checks. Employees who prefer not to engage in these duties must take vacation days or utilize their overtime hours instead.

For employees willing to work during the Carnival season, they must proactively offer their services. If management chooses not to utilize their availability, employees retain their right to compensation without the obligation to compensate with extra hours or vacation time.

Complications may arise when comparing pharmacies within a single chain; for instance, if one location is situated in a Carnival hotspot while another is not. Employees at the latter may find themselves at a disadvantage if they are subjected to different working conditions. According to employment law, while there is an expectation for equal treatment among employees, this does not imply that every worker must be treated identically. Reasonable justifications exist for not closing all pharmacies in a network simply due to one location being in a festive area.

For staff who transition between pharmacies, open communication is essential to reach an agreeable solution that works for all involved. The essence of Carnival is to spread joy and celebrate together, which should facilitate finding a suitable arrangement during this vibrant season.