Myth or Reality? 11 Strange Employment Laws From Around The World
Employment laws can be weird. Whether you’re in staffing, recruiting, or human resources, chances are that you’ve encountered quite a few odd employment laws. It’s amazing how many quirks and oddities of employment law and contracts still exist.
For instance, in the UK until very recently, masters were forbidden from feeding their apprentices salmon, because it was such a cheap foodstuff in Renaissance-era London.
In this article, we’ll examine some of the oddest and most peculiar employment laws worldwide. There’s a little something for everyone. If you know of any other strange or wacky employment laws I’ve missed, please email me at joseph@homeworkinghenry.com.
1. You May Be Forbidden from Using the Bathroom – United States
The Department of Labor in the United States has set forth no provisions regarding the right to use the bathroom at work. Employers can prohibit you from taking too many bathroom breaks or bar you from using the bathroom altogether.
The Reality: There is a federal statutory requirement for toilet breaks in the US—this is a fact. Employees are covered by OSHA guidance, which requires employers to provide restrooms. This operates under a good faith principle, meaning employers cannot place unreasonable restrictions on bathroom use.
Read more: OSHA Restroom Guidance
2. You Can’t Fire Your Employees – Portugal
Portuguese employment law makes no provisions for termination periods. Companies must offer a resignation package, and employees must accept it—otherwise, they are allowed to keep working at the company.
The Reality: Employers can fire employees. However, there is a structured process for dismissals that must be followed. Employees also have the right to appeal any unfair dismissals.
Read more: CMS Expert Guide to Dismissals
3. You Can Only Work 9–5 – Germany
Managers in Germany’s Labour Ministry are banned from contacting employees outside the hours of 9–5, to help protect against “self-exploitation”.
The Reality: This is partly true. Many employers follow rules about email forwarding and contacting staff outside work hours. Employees have the “right to disconnect.” However, some industries—like public service—allow emergency call-outs or out-of-hours contact, with appropriate compensation.
Read more: German Labour Law Guide
4. You Can Lose 10% of Your Pay for Wearing a Funny Hat – New Zealand
New Zealand allows employers to dock up to 10% of your pay for breaking uniform rules, like wearing a funny hat.
The Reality: False. This is internet nonsense that pops up on LinkedIn now and then. While pay can be deducted for going on strike, you won’t be fined 10% for fashion crimes.
Read more: New Zealand Employment Law Guide
5. Your Employer Is Required to Measure Your Waistline – Japan
The “Metabo Law” in Japan requires employers to measure your waist and offer weight loss support if it exceeds a certain size.
The Reality: True. This government initiative targets people over 40. Men with waistlines over 90cm and women over 85cm may be required to undergo health guidance to reduce obesity risks.
Read more: About Japan’s Metabo Law
6. Women Are Prohibited from “Physically Demanding” Jobs – China
Chinese employment law bans women from working in jobs that require lifting, logging, mining, or high-altitude work.
The Reality: True. A range of jobs and professions are off-limits to women due to the physical demands. These restrictions were introduced to ‘protect’ women’s health.
Read more: Chinese Employment Law Overview
- Male Employees Must Shave Their Beards – Isesaki, Japan
Public employees in Isesaki are not allowed to have beards, as they are considered “unpleasant”.
The Reality: True. In 2010, the city of Isesaki banned facial hair for local government officials, claiming it didn’t align with public decorum.
Read more: The Guardian Article about this hair raising story
8. No Men Are Allowed in Women’s-Only Stores – Saudi Arabia
Men are banned from working in women’s clothing or cosmetics stores.
The Reality: True. Saudi Arabia enforces strict gender separation in public spaces. Since 2012, only women can work in stores that sell women’s apparel.
Read more: Saudi Labour Law Information
9. Some Companies Can’t Fire Employees Without Government Permission – India
Indian companies with over 100 employees cannot terminate staff without prior government approval.
The Reality: True. These laws date back to 1946–1947 and were intended to protect “workmen” from unfair layoffs. Today, they still apply in some sectors.
Read more: Indian Labour Code Resources
10. Women Are Not Allowed to Work at Night – Madagascar
Women can only work at night in “family establishments” and are barred from night shifts elsewhere.
The Reality: True. This restriction still exists in some sectors, though there have been movements towards reform.
Read more: Madagascar Labour Law Overview
11. Managers Must Buy Ice Cream – United Kingdom
UK managers are legally required to buy staff a Solero, Magnum, or Cornetto on the hottest day of the year.
The Reality: False—but fun! While no such law exists, many UK office workers can confirm a strong social tradition: if your office lacks air conditioning, your boss might treat you to ice cream on a hot summer day.
Read more: UK Workplace Temperature Regulations
Final Thoughts
Labour laws vary wildly from country to country. While some rules seem bonkers at first glance, many are rooted in cultural values or societal norms. From waistline checks to email curfews, these laws offer a fascinating glimpse into how different countries balance work and life.
Know of any crazy, mad, or fun employment laws from around the world? Share them in the comments or email me at joseph@homeworkinghenry.com.
I might feature them in a future edition!
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