As an expert in labor standards and regulations, I can provide a comprehensive answer to your question about working 7 days a week. It's important to understand that labor laws are designed to protect workers from exploitation and to ensure a healthy work-life balance. These laws vary by country and sometimes even by state or province within a country, so the specifics can differ significantly.

**Red Flag #1: Working Hours and Rest Periods**
The first point to consider is the standard workweek. In many jurisdictions, a full-time workweek is defined as 40 hours. Beyond that, overtime pay is typically required. The statement you provided, "If you do work more than 20 hours per week for someone, that employer must give you --at least twenty-four consecutive hours of rest in every calendar week--," suggests a minimum rest period requirement. This is a common stipulation to ensure workers have adequate time to rest and recover, which is crucial for maintaining their health and well-being.

**Red Flag #2: Permission for Extended Workweeks**
The second point relates to the possibility of employers obtaining permission to have their employees work 7 days a week. The phrase "...Employers can get permission from the Department of Labor to work their employees 7 days a week, but they can only do that a maximum of 8 weeks a year," indicates that there are provisions for exceptional circumstances. However, such permissions are usually granted sparingly and under strict conditions to prevent abuse and ensure that the extended work does not become the norm.

**Red Flag #3: Worker's Rights and Health**
It's also essential to consider the impact of continuous work on a worker's health. Working 7 days a week without a break can lead to physical and mental fatigue, which can decrease productivity and increase the risk of accidents and errors. Over the long term, it can also contribute to chronic health issues such as burnout and stress-related illnesses.

**Red Flag #4: Legal and Ethical Considerations**
From a legal perspective, any agreement to work 7 days a week must comply with the labor laws of the relevant jurisdiction. From an ethical standpoint, employers have a duty of care to their employees, which includes providing a safe and healthy work environment. This means not only adhering to the letter of the law but also considering the spirit of the regulations and the well-being of their workforce.

Conclusion
In conclusion, while it may be technically possible for an employer to arrange for an employee to work 7 days a week under certain conditions, it is generally not advisable and may violate the spirit of labor laws designed to protect workers. It's crucial for both employers and employees to be aware of their rights and responsibilities under the law and to strive for a balanced approach to work that promotes health, well-being, and productivity.

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If you do work more than 20 hours per week for someone, that employer must give you --at least twenty-four consecutive hours of rest in every calendar week.-- ... Employers can get permission from the Department of Labor to work their employees 7 days a week, but they can only do that a maximum of 8 weeks a year.read more >>