PAM’s primary task is to negotiate collective agreements for workers in service sectors. Through collective agreements, PAM develops and supervises its members’ interests and ensures that fair rules are followed in workplaces and working life.
In many respects, collective agreements exceed the requirements of the law. The collective agreement determines the minimum level which must always be met, with no exceptions. However, the minimum level may be exceeded if agreed in the workplace or in a personal employment contract.
The collective agreement is a basic agreement negotiated between the trade union (PAM) and the employers’ association.
The collective agreement determines the minimum terms of employment, including the following:
The purpose of the provisions of a collective agreement is to safeguard the position of the worker and ensure fair treatment. The employer must apply the provisions of the collective agreement to all its employees. Everyone must have at least a basic level of security, which is determined in the collective agreement.
The worker can negotiate better terms in the employment contract; the collective agreement only sets minimum levels. PAM will help you if the minimum levels are not being met.
| BENEFIT | LAW | COLLECTIVE AGREEMENT |
| Pay supplements | No provisions | Trade union negotiated |
| Work week | 40 hours | Trade union negotiated, often 37,5 hours |
| Minimum working time | No provisions | Trade union negotiated |
| Coffee breaks | No provisions | Trade union negotiated |
| Reduced hours on mid-week public holiday week | No provisions | Trade union negotiated |
| Weekly rest | Weekly rest period (1 day off per week) | Main rule is a five-day week on average (2 days of rest per week) |
| Holiday bonus | No provisions | 50 % of annual holiday pay |
| Sick leave with pay | The salaried period is at most 1+9 days | Salaried sick leave can be up to 8 weeks |
| Temporary absence | Right to absence for compelling reason | Main rule is right to day off with pay for 1-3 days for care of sick child, your wedding, funeral |
| Pay during parental leave | No provisions | Trade union negotiated |
As a member of PAM, you are not alone in working life. We take care of the workers in the service industry and ensure that all workplaces have the best possible conditions.
