Commerce and services have 90% of workers with hours exceeding 40 hours, says sector
A study indicates that reducing the work week from 44 to 40 hours would impact over 90% of retail and service workers in Brazil.
A recent study by the CNC (National Confederation of Commerce of Goods, Services, and Tourism) reveals that a reduction in the weekly work hours from 44 to 40 would affect more than 90% of workers currently employed in the commerce and services sector. The study highlights that this change would necessitate the creation of 980,000 new job positions to offset the reduction in hours, indicating significant implications for the labor market. This analysis is intended to support the opposition against the ongoing PEC (Proposed Constitutional Amendment) aiming to eliminate the 6x1 work schedule.
The findings are based on data from the IBGE (Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics), which shows that a whopping 93% of retail workers and 92% of wholesale workers are currently working more than 40 hours per week. The near-total prevalence of the 6x1 work schedule in these sectors raises concerns about worker rights and the feasibility of implementing reduced hours without compromising jobs. As the study prepares to be presented to Federal Deputy Paulo Azi, formal discussions regarding labor laws are expected to take place in the Chamber of Deputies' Constitution and Justice Committee.
The implications of the study extend beyond the immediate workforce, touching on broader economic factors. A transition towards a shorter work week could influence productivity, employee well-being, and economic growth, while also sparking discussions about labor rights and modernization of workplace practices. As labor regulations evolve to adapt to contemporary work environments, striking a balance between economic demands and workers' rights will remain a pivotal challenge for policymakers in Brazil.