What is part time work?
Part time work is employment which is fewer hours each week than full time employment. In South Africa, an average working week is 45 hours, so anything below this, commonly 35/30 hours or even less, would be considered part time work.
Must I still have a contract if I am a part time worker?
Yes. Even part time staff must have a contract. The law applies if employees:
- Have a fixed employment period
- Only work one day a week
- Only work every weekend
- Only work half-day
Am I protected by the law as a part time worker?
Yes. If you have a contract and are regarded as an employee, you are protected by the Labour Relations Act (LRA) and the Basic Conditions of Employment Act (BCEA). An employee who works more than 24 hours per month is automatically protected by minimum standards set out in the BCEA.
Can I join a union if I am a part time worker?
Yes. All workers have the right to join and be active in a trade union. And you are legally protected against discrimination by your employer for being a union member.
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Find out more about Contracts and Work and Flexible Work.