Final answer:
Working hours limits can be exceeded with required overtime pay or under specific legal exemptions. Laws like the Fair Labor Standards Act mandate additional pay for hourly workers exceeding 40 hours per week while providing fairness in working conditions.
Step-by-step explanation:
The daily and weekly limits of Hours of Work can only be exceeded in certain conditions dictated by law. For example, regulations such as those outlined by the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) stipulate that any time worked over 40 hours per week is generally considered overtime for which workers are entitled to additional compensation. The FLSA establishes the minimum wage, limits on child labor, and requires payment of overtime pay for hourly workers who exceed those 40 hours. However, these laws may have exemptions; for instance, some managerial, administrative, and professional employees may be exempt from overtime pay under specific circumstances.
Historically, limiting adults' working hours has been controversial due to concerns over freedom of contract and economic necessity. It's worth noting that before such regulations, workers commonly faced long hours under often harsh conditions. Nowadays, laws have been enacted with the intention of protecting workers from excessive working hours and ensuring fair compensation.