Salaried Employees Logs More Hours Than Casual Workers: Survey

The Periodic Labour Force Survey for July 2023 to June 2024 indicates that regular wage earners average 48.2 hours per week, while casual workers and the self-employed log just under 40 hours

A recent government survey has revealed a troubling trend in the workplace: salaried employees, particularly in corporate settings, are working considerably more hours each week than their casual or self-employed peers. The Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) for July 2023 to June 2024 indicates that regular wage earners average 48.2 hours per week, while casual workers and the self-employed log just under 40 hours.

This disparity in work hours shown in the report isn’t just a number; it highlights the demanding corporate culture salaried employees navigate. With tight deadlines, high expectations, and an unrelenting push for productivity, work hours are reaching unprecedented levels.

For many corporate workers, a 48-hour work week translates to about 9 hours a day for a five-day schedule or 8 hours for those working six days. While some HR experts contend that these hours aren’t overly burdensome, others emphasise that it’s not just the quantity of hours that counts—it’s the workplace environment itself. The relentless hustle, pressure to perform, and increasing demands of modern workplaces push many employees to their limits. 

Interestingly, while salaried employees are logging longer hours, casual labourers and the self-employed grapple with different stresses.

While these workers typically clock in just under 40 hours a week, they often face income instability and irregular schedules. Self-employed individuals may enjoy the freedom to set their hours, but their earnings are highly dependent on market demand, and they lack the safety net of a consistent paycheck.

The discussion surrounding work hours and employee well-being gained new traction following the tragic death of Anna Sebastian Perayil, a 26-year-old Ernst & Young employee in Pune. Her passing has been linked to severe work-related stress, sparking a nationwide conversation about the impact of long hours and high-pressure environments on employees.

This incident has led to a government investigation into workplace culture and the effects of extended hours on employee health. 

As more information surfaces, many urge companies to reconsider their approach to deadlines and employee expectations. Experts advocate for a balanced work culture that prioritises productivity within reasonable limits and challenges the idea that long hours are a badge of honour.