Je weniger Grenzen umso länger? Die Wirkung von arbeitgeber:innenseitig flexiblen und entgrenzten Arbeitszeiten auf die wöchentliche Arbeitszeit

Using representative data for Austria, this article examines the effects of employer-driven flexibilization and dissolution on the length of working hours. This topic is embedded in the current discussion on the dissolution of boundaries between work and life. The term dissolution of work boundaries refers to the increasing blurring of the boundary between periods of gainful employment and other periods. This is driven by the demands of both employees and employers. In this article, the question of a direct connection between the strength of employer-side flexibilization and dissolution of boundaries and the duration of working hours is addressed empirically. In addition, the influence of other factors on longer or shorter working hours is examined. Finally, based on the results of the study, suggestions are formulated for measures to design flexible working hours that are compatible with a good, healthy life.

Practical relevance:

Working time is determined within companies, however the framework conditions and possibilities for the company organization of working hours are the subject of agreements between the interest groups of employers and employees and of political decisions. For good company and (interest-)political decisions, empirical evidence is required that shows the possibilities but also the dangers of the organization of working hours. This paper contributes to this topic.