Phnom Penh: Overtime work is any labor performed beyond normal working hours. The fundamental principle is that overtime must be voluntary and cannot be forced. Employers are prohibited from punishing any worker who refuses to work overtime.

The Ministry of Labor and Vocational Training has previously warned that it will take action against companies that illegally require workers to perform overtime. Excessive overtime can harm workers’ health, as the law limits overtime to a maximum of two hours per day.

According to Article 137 of the Labor Law, total working hours must not exceed eight hours per day or 48 hours per week. In cases of urgent work, employers may request overtime, paying 50% extra for regular overtime and 100% extra for night or weekend overtime.

Employers are required to ensure that all overtime is based on the voluntary principle. Workers have the right to accept or refuse overtime without fear of punishment. In addition, employers must comply with regulations on providing additional wages and meals to workers who perform overtime.