As an employer in the equestrian sector, you already have plenty on your plate, horses, clients, training sessions, events, staff… Yet there’s one administrative task that’s often overlooked, but legally required: working hours registration.
What is working hours registration?
Working hours registration means keeping track of when your employees are working:
- Start and end times of their workday
- Breaks
- Overtime
- And, if applicable, rest days or on-call shifts
It’s not just a record for payroll purposes, it’s also a way to comply with the Working Hours Act (Arbeidstijdenwet in Dutch), which protects employees from excessively long workdays and insufficient rest.
Why is it mandatory?
Under Dutch law, every employer must be able to demonstrate that the rules on working and rest hours are being followed. This also applies to equestrian businesses such as riding schools, livery yards, training stables, event venues, and breeding operations.
During an inspection by the Dutch Labour Authority (Inspectie SZW in Dutch), you must be able to present this registration. Failure to do so can result in a fine.
What exactly do you need to record?
The law doesn’t specify how you must register working hours, only that you do. In practice, this means that for each employee you record:
- Date
- Start and end time
- Breaks
- Total hours worked per day and per week
You can do this manually (for example in an Excel sheet) or digitally via a system or app.
How long must you keep the records?
Working hours records must be kept for at least 52 weeks from the day the work was performed.
It’s wise to keep them longer if they’re also relevant for payroll administration or in case of disputes about hours worked. This ensures you’re always prepared for an inspection or any discussions afterward.
Why it’s more than just a legal requirement
A solid working hours registration isn’t only useful during inspections, it also helps you to:
- Gain insight into your team’s workload
- Compensate overtime fairly
- Plan more efficiently
- Prevent conflicts about hours or rest days
It also shows that you take your responsibilities seriously as an employer — something that’s increasingly valued in today’s job market.
How to make it easy
A digital system can save you a lot of time. There are platforms that automatically record when employees clock in and out using their phone or computer. This makes it simple to comply with the law and keep everything organized for payroll and scheduling.
Horse and Work can help you choose or set up a solution that fits your business, tailored to the daily reality of the equestrian world.
In short
Working hours registration isn’t just a legal obligation; it’s also a smart way to stay in control of your business while protecting your employees. A small effort with big benefits.
And don’t forget: keep your records for at least 52 weeks, that way, you’re always prepared in case of an inspection.
💬 Want to know which digital solution best suits your business? Fill out the contact form, we’re happy to help!