FAR 22.103-1—Definition.
Plain-English Summary
FAR 22.103-1 defines the term “normal workweek” for purposes of Subpart 22.1, which governs labor standards and related wage determinations in federal contracting. The section establishes the general rule that a normal workweek is 40 hours, and it also creates a limited exception for work performed outside the United States and its outlying areas where a longer workweek may be treated as normal. That exception applies only when the longer schedule matches the local norm as determined by custom, tradition, or law, and only when hours over 40 are not paid at a premium rate. In practice, this definition matters because it affects how contractors structure schedules, calculate labor costs, and determine whether overtime or premium pay assumptions are appropriate under the applicable labor standards. It also helps contracting officers and contractors avoid importing U.S.-based assumptions about a 40-hour week into overseas performance locations where local labor practices may differ.
Key Rules
40-Hour Default
As a general rule, the normal workweek under this subpart is 40 hours. This is the baseline assumption unless the overseas exception applies.
Overseas Exception
Outside the United States and its outlying areas, a workweek longer than 40 hours may be considered normal. This exception is not automatic and depends on local conditions.
Local Norm Required
The longer workweek must not exceed the norm for the area, as determined by local custom, tradition, or law. The standard is tied to the local labor environment, not simply the contractor’s preference.
No Premium Pay Above 40
Hours worked beyond 40 in the workweek cannot be compensated at a premium rate of pay if the longer schedule is to be treated as normal. If premium pay is required, the exception does not apply.
Responsibilities
Contracting Officer
Apply the definition correctly when evaluating labor assumptions, wage-related clauses, and contract pricing for work performed under this subpart, especially for overseas performance locations.
Contractor
Determine whether the planned work schedule qualifies as a normal workweek under the rule, document the local basis for any overseas schedule over 40 hours, and ensure pay practices match the definition.
Agency
Use the definition consistently in labor standards administration and contract oversight, particularly when work is performed outside the United States and its outlying areas.
Practical Implications
For domestic performance, contractors should generally plan on a 40-hour normal workweek unless another FAR provision or applicable labor rule changes the analysis.
For overseas work, a longer schedule may be treated as normal, but only if it reflects the local norm and the extra hours are not paid at a premium rate.
A common pitfall is assuming that any foreign location automatically allows a longer normal workweek; the local custom, tradition, or law must support it.
Another risk is misclassifying premium-paid hours as part of the normal workweek, which can affect labor cost estimates, payroll practices, and compliance reviews.
Contracting officers and contractors should verify local labor practices early, because the definition can affect pricing, staffing plans, and whether overtime-like costs are built into the contract.
Official Regulatory Text
Normal workweek , as used in this subpart, means, generally, a workweek of 40 hours. Outside the United States and its outlying areas, a workweek longer than 40 hours is considered normal if- (1) The workweek does not exceed the norm for the area, as determined by local custom, tradition, or law; and (2) The hours worked in excess of 40 in the workweek are not compensated at a premium rate of pay.