The Norwegian Business Association (NHO) has issued a recommendation to its members to refrain from utilizing part-time employees for extra shifts or overtime. This advisory comes on the heels of a recent court decision by the Søndre Østfold District Court, where a part-time worker successfully claimed overtime pay for taking on additional shifts. This ruling has sparked concerns within the NHO about the implications of employing part-time workers beyond their standard hours without adequate compensation.

Nina Melsom, the Director for Labor and Tariff at NHO, highlighted that as long as workers continue to pursue legal action with significant compensation claims, the organization feels compelled to advise businesses against assigning extra work to part-time staff. This reflects a growing unease among employers regarding their obligations under labor laws, particularly in relation to overtime pay and worker rights.

The decision to discourage the hiring of part-time employees for additional work may have far-reaching effects on the labor market in Norway. Many businesses, particularly in sectors that rely on a flexible workforce, could face challenges in managing staffing needs without the ability to offer extra hours. This situation places additional pressure on employers as they navigate legal requirements while also trying to meet operational demands in a competitive environment.