Working a little extra during crunch time is common, but overtime is not just an informal favour to the employer. Labour laws usually regulate how many hours employees can legally work and what compensation they are entitled to for additional time.
Basic frameworks fix maximum daily and weekly working hours, with rest intervals and weekly off days. When employees are asked to stay beyond standard hours, they may be entitled to overtime pay, often at a higher rate than normal wages.
Some categories of staff — especially managerial or supervisory roles — may be exempt from overtime rules, though titles alone don’t always decide this. Actual nature of work matters. Employers sometimes label many staff as “managers” mainly to avoid overtime liability, which can be challenged.
Employees should keep a record of hours worked and any directions for extra duty. Silent acceptance over years and cash payments without documentation can make later claims more complicated.
Fair overtime practices aren’t just about law; they’re about respecting human limits and preventing burnout.