and Trade Practices - Finland
Released by the Bureau of Economic and Business Affairs
U.S. Department of State, March 2000
e. Acceptable Conditions of Work: There is no legislated minimum wage, but the law requires all employers, including non-unionized ones, to meet the minimum wages agreed to in collective bargaining agreements in the respective industrial sector. These minimum wages generally provide a decent standard of living for workers and their families. The legal workweek consists of 5 days not exceeding 40 hours. Employees working in shifts or during the weekend are entitled to a 24-hour rest period during the week. The law is effectively enforced as a minimum, and many workers enjoy even stronger benefits through effectively enforced collective bargaining agreements. The government sets occupational health and safety standards, and the Labor Ministry effectively enforces them. Workers can refuse dangerous work situations, without risk of penalty.
