Non-productive overtime

Non-productive overtime is overtime that is spent in the workplace but that is not engaged in activities that are profitable for the business. For example this could be time that an employee might spend on a social media site or shopping online whilst ostensibly working overtime. Such non-productive overtime can prove very costly to a business if it is not monitored and kept in check. However there may be circumstances where an employee is required to work overtime but there is little productive work to be done during that time – for example, he or she may be needed on site late to answer the telephones but may be doing a crossword whilst waiting for calls to come in. In the event that their performance is not impaired, then it may be considered reasonable to spend some of their overtime engaging in such activities. Many of the difficulties around non-productive overtime can be resolved before they arise by having rigorous terms and conditions laid out from the beginning in employment contracts which make it clear what is considered reasonable behaviours during overtime.  Peninsula Business Services can provide advice and assistance if you need help to ensure you are compliant when dealing with the issue of overtime. Contact us today – call 0800 0282 420; or use our callback form to arrange for us to get in touch at a time that is convenient for you.