Fact or fiction? SNCF employees have “arduous jobs”
Around 60% of rail operations staff, or 91,000 employees, have jobs classified as arduous.
Arduous jobs: a clear legal definition
The rail transport sector operates within a well-defined legal framework, including specific criteria for identifying and managing arduous jobs. This framework mirrors standards set for other public and private-sector employment, ensuring clarity and consistency.
50%
of SNCF employees work night shifts
30,000
employees permanently work a three-shift rotation
25,000
onboard employees work irregular hours
Rotating shifts, holidays and irregular hours
91,000 SNCF employees— around 60% of rail operations staff—have jobs classified as arduous. On top of that, more than half work nights, including onboard employees like train drivers, conductors and other personnel. 25,000 have irregular working hours.
A third of our employees regularly work Sundays and public holidays, and nearly 30,000 permanently work a three-shift rotation.
Challenging working conditions
There are other factors to consider as well. Employees who work on the rail network are exposed to harsh weather, and maintenance staff also work under taxing conditions. Employees with jobs that meet the legal definition of pénibilité, or arduousness, are entitled to compensation, which can take the form of bonuses, compensatory leave or early retirement.
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