Seven weird working rules from around the world

Seven weird working rules from around the world by Amber Rolfe Napping at work isn’t frowned upon in every country…Whether you’re considering finding a job abroad, or you’re just curious about how your benefits and entitlements differ compared to other areas of the world â€" there are a number of international working rules that may surprise you.Here are seven weird working rules from around the world (that may or may not make you want to move immediately):  If you wear a funny hat to work in New Zealand, you could lose 10% of your pay It turns out the tolerance for comedic hats in New Zealand isn’t particularly high; in fact it’s pretty much non-existent.Wearing one could be interpreted as breaking the uniform code â€" and the penalty could be a pay cut.Does the punishment fit the crime? Probably not. But at least you’ll save money on fedoras.  Japanese employers must measure the waistlines of everyone aged 40-75In a bid to reduce obesity in Japan, the ‘Metabo Law’ was introduced â€" setting a waistline limit (33.5 inches for men and 35.4 inches for women) for all employees within the above age range.Not only does this mean employers are legally obligated to measure the waists of their employees on a regular basis, it also means those who exceed the limit (and don’t lose the weight within three months) have to go to dieting classes.That’s one way to encourage healthy eating…  If you work for Germany’s labour ministry, it’s illegal to work overtimeIn Germany’s labour ministry, working 9-5 isn’t just a way to make a living â€" it’s the only  way.In fact, the ministry bans its managers from contacting staff outside of work hours; unless it’s an emergency. Similarly, employees in France are legally obliged to steer clear of out-of-work emails.Why? To protect staff from self-exploitation. In other words, if you’re prone to overworking, this will literally force you to stop. Unless, you know, you like breaking the law.  Indian companies with over 100 employees can’t fire people without permission from the governmentEmployers in India have to follow strict rules when it comes to dismissing their staff.According to a law dating back to when Britain ruled the region, all companies with over 100 people are required to consult the government before firing a member of staff.However, the law can be overruled if the reason for dismissal is criminal misconduct.  Belgian employees have the right to travel Need a career break? It might be time to move to Belgium.Not only are employees in this country legally entitled to a year-long career break away from their job, they’ll also receive full pay whilst away.And that’s not all. They’re also guaranteed to be able to return to their job once they return, which is confirmed by the employer before they leave.Napping at work is totally OK in Japan Staying awake at work can be somewhat of a daily struggle for many of us â€" but if you work in Japan, you no longer need to fight the urge to fall asleep.Thatâ €™s right; not only do Japanese employers encourage napping (AKA ‘inemuiri’) on the job, it’s also seen as a sign of hard work.The only downside? You have to remain upright while asleep. No desk pillows allowed.You can’t point with one finger at Walt DisneyworldAlongside a number of other strict working rules, cast members (AKA employees) at Disneyworld in Florida also have very specific directions when it comes to giving directions.As pointing with one finger could be considered offensive in some cultures, they’re required to instead gesture with two fingers â€" or use their whole hand. Other weird Disney working rules include not saying the words ‘I don’t know’ (opting to give helpful/creative answers instead), and being a certain height to play characters.Considering a career at the happiest place on earth? Always let your conscience be your guide.Just make sure it’s only pointing with one finger…What it’s like to work for Disney  Still searching for your pe rfect position? View all available jobs now