Definition
UK legislation that sets limits on working hours, provides entitlements to rest breaks and paid annual leave, and contains special provisions for night workers. The regulations implement the EU Working Time Directive into UK law.
UK Context
The Working Time Regulations 1998 set a maximum average working week of 48 hours (calculated over a 17-week reference period), minimum daily and weekly rest periods, a right to 5.6 weeks of paid annual leave, and restrictions on night work. Workers can voluntarily opt out of the 48-hour limit in writing.
Best Practices
- Keep accurate records of working hours for all employees and monitor compliance with the 48-hour limit
- Obtain and securely store written opt-out agreements from any employees choosing to work beyond 48 hours
- Offer free health assessments to night workers as required by the regulations
Frequently Asked Questions
Can an employee work more than 48 hours per week?
Yes, but only if they voluntarily sign a written opt-out agreement. The opt-out cannot be a condition of employment, and the worker can cancel it by giving at least seven days notice (or longer if agreed, up to three months).
How is the 48-hour week calculated?
It is calculated as an average over a 17-week reference period. This means an employee can work more than 48 hours in some weeks as long as the average over 17 weeks does not exceed 48 hours. Some sectors have different reference periods.