What constitutes as working hours during a business trip? - Denmark

In compliance with Danish labor laws and in pursuit of fair labor practices, guidelines have been established to manage working hours for employees during national and international business trips. These policies aim to clarify what constitutes working hours and how employees are compensated during business-related travel.

Travel Time

• During Regular Working Hours: Travel that coincides with an employee's regular working hours is counted as working hours.
• Outside of Regular Hours: Travel outside of regular working hours is subject to specific conditions:
  • If employees are engaged in work-related tasks (e.g., preparing presentations, responding to emails), this time is considered working hours.
  • Passive travel, where employees are not required to perform work and can rest, generally does not count as working hours unless previously determined by agreement.

Work-Related Activities

• Active Engagement: All time spent on job-related activities during the trip, such as attending meetings, workshops, and business events, is included in working hours.
• Mandatory Participation: Attendance at events such as dinners or networking functions, if required and directly related to the business objectives of the trip, is also counted as working hours.

Rest Periods

• Adherence to Rest Periods: The mandatory 11-hour rest period every 24 hours must be observed. Travel and work schedules should be arranged to accommodate these rest periods, with adjustments or compensations provided if this is not possible due to travel demands.

Responsibilities

• Policy Clarity: These guidelines align with Danish labor laws to ensure that both the company and its employees engage in practices that are both fair and legal.
• Communication: It is crucial that employees discuss and agree on the schedule and definition of working hours with their supervisors prior to any business trip. This agreement should be formally documented to prevent any potential disputes or misunderstandings.
• Documentation and Compensation: Accurate documentation of all working hours during business trips is a commitment, and employees will be compensated accordingly, either through wages or compensatory rest time.

It's advised that employees consult the employer before the business trip should any questions remain unclear.