If you start working in the hospitality industry through a temp agency, chances are you will start with a phase A contract. But what exactly does such a contract entail? In this blog we explain it to you in detail, so that you know exactly where you stand when you start working in the hospitality industry through SparkedWorks.
What is a phase A contract?
A phase A contract is a type of contract often used in the temporary employment industry. It is a flexible contract in which the temporary worker is paid only for the hours actually worked. There is no fixed number of hours per week agreed upon, nor is there a fixed end date for the contract.
This type of contract is widely used in the hospitality industry because workloads and staffing needs can vary greatly. With a phase A contract, a hospitality business can employ exactly the number of people needed at the time.
Characteristics of a phase A contract
A Phase A contract has some specific features:
- You have a "temp clause" in your contract. This means that if the hospitality business indicates it no longer needs you, your contract will end immediately.
- You build up few rights during phase A. For example, you do not accrue the right to a transition allowance if your contract is terminated.
- You basically have a fixed-term contract, but for how long exactly is not specified. As long as the hospitality business has work for you, you can continue to work through the temp agency.
- Between assignments, the temp agency may offer you other suitable assignments, but they are not obligated to do so. So you may sometimes be out of work for a while.
How long does phase A last?
Exactly how long you stay in Phase A depends on how many hours you work. Phase A lasts a maximum of 78 weeks worked. If you work full-time, this is a year and a half. If you work part-time, phase A can last a lot longer. As soon as you pass the 78-week mark, you automatically move on to phase B.
Note that if you don't work for the temp agency for a while, the counter for the 78 weeks may start again. Therefore, if you have not worked for the temporary employment agency for 26 weeks, you will start again in phase A when you get a new assignment.
Salary and fringe benefits
In terms of salary, you just follow the classification of the collective labor agreement for the hospitality industry. So even if you have a phase A contract, you will receive the salary that fits your function and experience. You also accrue vacations for the hours you work.
As far as illness is concerned, it is different from a permanent contract. In phase A you are only entitled to sick pay for the hours you were scheduled to work. If you are sick on a day when you were not supposed to work at all, you don't get paid for that day. As soon as you are better, the employment agency must try to place you again.
Is a phase A contract disadvantageous?
A phase A contract offers less security than a permanent contract, that's clear. But on the other hand, you are very flexible. That can work to your advantage if you are good at your job. Hospitality businesses will then be happy to employ you and hire you again and again. This way you can still build up a fairly stable income, while you decide when to work.
You should see a phase A contract as a stepping stone. If both parties like it and there is enough work, there is a good chance that your employment agency or the hotel and catering business will offer you a permanent contract after phase A. Think of it as an extended probationary period.
Conclusion
A phase A contract is a flexible contract commonly used for temporary workers in the hospitality industry. You are paid per hour worked and have not yet accumulated many rights. In return, you are flexible and decide when you are available for work. Think of it as a stepping stone to more permanent employment if it suits both sides!
Hopefully it's now a lot clearer exactly what working on a Phase A contract entails. Do you still have questions? Please feel free to contact our on, we're happy to help you out!
