Employers are responsible for the physical and psychological wellbeing and the safety of their employees in the workplace.

For questions concerning the protection of employees, health and safety at work, both employers and employees may contact the Office of Labour and the Economy.

Amt für Wirtschaft und Arbeit (Office of Labor and the Economy)
Aabachstrasse 5
Postfach
6301 Zug
Tel. +41 41 728 55 20
Fax +41 41 728 55 29
info.awa@zg.ch
www.zg.ch/awa - German

Protection of Young Employees
Young employees under 18 years of age are well protected by the law. Young people may only be employed to work on a regular basis from the age of 15. Exceptions can be made in cases of cultural, artistic or athletic performances as well as in advertising. Furthermore, children may be employed for light work from the age of 13. (e.g. light errands or internships). Young people may not carry out any dangerous work within their professional training, though there may be some exceptions to this.

Protection for Pregnant Women and Mothers
Special protective measures apply to pregnant women and nursing mothers.The main provisions cover:

Health protection: restriction of the number of working hours a day, ban on work at night for at least eight weeks before giving birth and a ban on work for at least eight weeks after giving birth, protection from dangerous work and materials, etc. See Pregnacy and Motherhood

Obligation to pay salary: all working mothers receive paid maternity leave.