996 working hour system

A work schedule in China

The 996 working hour system is a work schedule practiced by some companies in China, where employees work from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., six days a week. This schedule equates to a 72-hour work week.

Overview

The 996 working hour system is prevalent in the technology industry in China, particularly among startups and internet companies. It is often seen as a way to boost productivity and accelerate growth in highly competitive markets. However, it has also been criticized for its impact on work-life balance and employee health.

Criticism

Critics of the 996 working hour system argue that it leads to burnout, stress, and other health issues. The intense work schedule can result in karoshi, a Japanese term for "death from overwork," which has been reported in China as well.

996.ICU

The 996 working hour system has sparked significant backlash, leading to the creation of the "996.ICU" movement. The name "996.ICU" suggests that by following the 996 schedule, employees risk ending up in the intensive care unit (ICU). The movement gained traction on GitHub, where employees shared their experiences and advocated for better working conditions.

Legal Status

In China, the Labor Law stipulates a standard workweek of 40 hours, with overtime not to exceed 36 hours per month. The 996 schedule exceeds these legal limits, leading to debates about its legality and enforcement.

Impact on Society

The 996 working hour system has broader implications for Chinese society, affecting family life, mental health, and the overall well-being of workers. It has sparked discussions about the need for labor reform and the importance of work-life balance.

Related pages

• Karoshi
• Work-life balance
• Labor law in China
• Burnout (psychology)

Gallery

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  Deaths from Karoshi

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  996.ICU logo

996 working hour system

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  Deaths from Karoshi

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  996 working hour system