Many Singaporean households who hire maids depend on their helpers for a clean house and home-cooked meals.
Thus, some may require their maid to work on their off day, or even want them to work during the hours before and after they go for their off day. 🤯
Are such behaviours from employers too extreme and calculative? Is it even legal? 🤔
Read more to find out about maid off day rules.
Maid Off Day How Many Hours?
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When it comes to maid off day timing, there is no one-size-fits-all answer.
MOM only gives a guide which states that an off day should give at least 8 hours of free time.
Employers and domestic helpers can agree on either a full day or two half days off, depending on their mutual agreement.
While there is no rule requiring the off day to be tracked, it is good practice to have an official tracking of when off days are taken.
This helps the employer be accountable and also prevents any wrongful accusation by either party.
Can Maid Work On Off Day?
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The maid can work on off days if she agrees, and she must be compensated.
(💡Note: The maid must have at least one rest day each month that cannot be compensated away.)
This rest day is essential for their mental and physical well-being.
It’s essential to note that maids are not allowed to moonlight during their off day.
(💡Note: If caught, this is punishable by law, and their work permit may be revoked. )
Some households may still require assistance before the maid leaves for their off day or after they return.
While this is not illegal, this is a grey area of the rules and regulations.
Pushing them to work on their off day can lead to decreased job satisfaction and a higher likelihood of quitting. 🤝
If this occurs frequently, it can be seen as a form of abuse, where the maid can raise a complaint with MOM (and MOM will likely side with the maid).
As a maid agency with over a decade of experience in the industry, our professional recommendation is to allow the maid to rest for the whole day.
Unless she willingly offers to help once back from her off day, there should not be an expectation for her to work.
Calculating Maid Off Day Salary
A maid’s daily salary is calculated by dividing their monthly salary by the total number of working days in a month.
To give you a better idea, let’s say your maid’s monthly salary is $600.
In a standard 4-week month that has around 26 working days, taking into account 4 rest days, then their daily salary would be approximately $600/26 = $23.10. 💸
Clearly Communicate Off Day Expectations
Clear communication is vital when it comes to maid off day rules.
Ultimately, they are adults and should not be treated like a child.
Employers should establish open channels to discuss any changes in schedule or emergencies that may require the maid’s assistance.
Discourage activities or behaviour that may be problematic on their off days.
(Suggestion: New maids are unfamiliar with local Singapore culture, so it is good idea to introduce them to some popular areas during their first few off days.)
How Should A Maid Spend Her Off Days?
She should do whatever that helps her feel rested.
Whether that is going out with her friends, or staying in at home, it is her choice to decide.
If she decides to stay at home, do not disturb her rest or ask her to work.
Respect Maid’s Off Day Like It Is Your Own
Many Singaporeans are also employed in a company.
Would you like it if your boss bothered you on your rest days? 😮💨
Similarly, a maid’s off day is her chance to break the routine too.
Remember, your maid’s job satisfaction is crucial to maintaining a positive working relationship.
As an employer, it’s your responsibility to ensure that your maid’s rights are respected, and that they receive the rest they deserve. 🛏️
This comprehensive guide should also remove any blurry lines or questions surrounding maid off day rules.
As a takeaway, treating a maid with respect will lead to a productive maid! 💪
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