What does the Working Hours Act (ArbZG) regulate and what does it mean for my application?

The Working Hours Act (ArbZG Q036) regulates maximum working hours and is relevant for job advertisements and contract negotiations. Core rules: Max. 8 hours per working day (extendable to 10 hours if the average over 6 months remains at 8 hours or below). Min. 11 hours rest between working days. Sundays and public holidays are generally work-free (exceptions: healthcare, hospitality, IT on-call). Relevant for applicants: If job advertisements imply 'flexibility' or '60+ hours', this may violate the ArbZG. In contract negotiations: 'Trust-based working hours' is not a licence for unlimited working time -- the ArbZG always applies. Haufe Arbeitsrecht: Since 2022 (ECJ ruling implemented), employers must systematically record working hours. For violations: The Federal Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (BAuA) is responsible. Caveat: Senior executives and managing employees have restricted ArbZG rights.