In Costa Rica, the conversation about modernizing work days has gained momentum with the arrival of Legislative File No. 24,290 , currently under discussion in the Legislative Assembly. This proposal seeks to introduce exceptional work days, such as the 4x3 model, for specific sectors that require continuous operation. However, this is not the first time that this idea has reached Congress .
In 2023, a similar project was rejected by the Constitutional Court due to errors in its processing. Now, this new initiative comes with important adjustments and a more robust framework to ensure that both workers and employers benefit from a model that balances productivity and labor rights.
What are 4x3 exceptional days?
4x3 workdays propose a scheme in which employees work 12 hours a day for four consecutive days, followed by three days of continuous rest. This model is designed for activities with uninterrupted operation, such as high-tech manufacturing, medical devices and corporate services, allowing for greater operational efficiency and a better balance for employees.
Unlike the previous proposal, Bill 24.290 includes clear measures to protect the health and well-being of workers, while ensuring that they are only applied in sectors that justify it.
What makes this new project different?
Exclusive approach: It will only be applied in activities classified as essential and with continuous processes that require uninterrupted labor.
Enhanced protection: Establishes limitations to prevent application in unhealthy, dangerous or extremely exhausting jobs.
Salary increases: An additional 17% is proposed for day shifts and 25.5% for night shifts.
Voluntary guarantee: The workday will only apply to those who agree to work under this scheme and offers a trial period for those who wish to return to traditional workdays
Benefits and challenges
This proposal offers benefits for both companies and employees, but also faces significant challenges.
For entrepreneurs:
Reduction of administrative costs and greater continuity in production processes.
Increased productivity in strategic sectors.
A clear regulatory framework that encourages investment.
For workers:
Three consecutive days of rest, ideal for work-life balance.
Competitive salaries and access to facilities such as transportation and food.
Greater flexibility to balance work with family responsibilities or studies.
Challenges to consider:
Work fatigue: Long working hours can be exhausting, affecting the quality of service in sectors such as hospitality.
Oversight: It will be essential for authorities to monitor compliance with the provisions to prevent abuse.
Acceptance: Implementation will depend on the confidence that workers have in this model.
A step forward with lessons from the past.
The rejection of the previous bill served as a lesson to strengthen this new proposal, which now comes with better conditions for both parties. With a more technical approach and additional protections, Bill 24,290 represents an opportunity to modernize Costa Rica's labor framework, aligning it with the demands of a globalized and technological market.
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