Approved:i1948*
Minister of Economy Aryeh Deri Signs Temporary Permit Allowing Longer
Working Hours for Security Guards Due to Security Situation
Due to the high demand for security services at this time, the Minister
authorized extending the hours of employment for security guards from 12 to
14 hours per shift in a one-month permit

Jerusalem, October 11, 2015 – In light of the shortage of security guards,
and after being approached by the Israel Security Association and relevant
parties in the police department and the Ministry of Public Security, a
meeting to evaluate the situation was held at the Regulation and Enforcement
Administration of Labor Laws at the Ministry of Economy. As a result,
Minister of Economy Deri authorized – in coordination with the Ministry of
Public Security and the Israel Police, and after consultation with the
Histadrut chairman, Avi Nissenkorn – a general business permit to employ
security guards during additional hours. This determines that for the next
month only, security guards may be employed for up to 14 hours per working
day, and no longer than 37 hours weekly, so as to enable the security
companies to increase the level of alertness throughout the country.

It should be emphasized that employment in line with the new business permit
will be solely with the employee’s agreement, and that every employee
working over 12 hours a day will be given an extra 30 minute break, beyond
that fixed by law. It should be noted that the permit will only apply to
employees who work no more than 6 days a week. The arrangement balances the
economy’s need for security workers following the latest security incidents,
and preservation of employee rights.

Minister of Economy Aryeh Deri: “Security guards have an important role in
the struggle against terrorism in Israel, preserving order, and restoring a
sense of tranquility and safety to the public. Following the current
increasing demand for security services, I have authorized an extension in
the employment of security guards for an additional two hours on each shift.
However, we will make sure to supervise and enforce the conditions of
employment for security guards, including an extra rest period due to the
increased hours of work, and the employers must provide all the benefits to
the guards as required by law.”