“Zero Hour” contracts permitted?

If not permitted, are low-hour part-time contracts possible?

India

Yes, however, employees have the right to refuse work, and to have other employment at the same time

South Africa

No.  Although there is no statutory prohibition, there is recent case law suggesting that such contracts are inconsistent with labour law principles and the requirement to provide employees with information about their ordinary working hours and days of work

Yes.  There is no authority indicating what the minimum amount of guaranteed hours would be.

Poland

Likely not.  While there does not appear to be a statutory prohibition, such arrangements are extremely uncommon and would be viewed with scepticisms.

Yes.  Part-time work is permitted, with no apparent minimum.  Part-time workers are entitled to the same rights as full-time workers (proportionate to their work time)

UK

Yes.  Employees have the right to accept or refuse hours that are offered.

Australia

Yes (usually referred to as “casual employment”).  Employees on such contracts are entitled to minimum wage for each hour worked, plus annual leave, sick pay, and rest breaks.  They have the right to refuse work when offered and may receive “casual loading” (a higher pay rate for being a casual employee).

Canada

Yes (usually referred to as “casual employment”).  Employees have the right to refuse work.  (Note:  This appears to be the case throughout Canada – no apparent difference between provinces).