WORKING TIME REGULATIONS

The Working Time Directive came into force on the 1st October 1998, and while there are still too many exemptions, the regulations have established, legal standards that are to be met so employees will have health, safety and welfare aspects of their working time considered.
The Main provision of the working Time Regulations are:
Working Time

• There will be a limit of 48 hours per week (this can be averaged out over a 17 or 26 week "reference period").
  Under the Regulations, working time is when a worker is
  
• Working;
  
• At their employer's disposal; and
  
• Carrying out activities or duties.

Paid Annual Leave

• Everyone are be entitled to four weeks paid annual from November 1999.

Daily Rest Periods

• Adults are be entitled to 11 hours consecutive rest per day;
  
• Under 18's years of age are entitled to 12 hours rest per day.

Weekly Rest Periods

• Adults are entitled to one day off per week;
  
• Under 18's are entitled to two days off per week.

Night Work

• This is limited to 8 hours in every 24 hours period (averaged over a 17 week "reference period").

Where the work involves Special Hazards or heavy physical or mental strain there will be a strict 8-hour limit for each 24-hour period. There is an entitlement to a free health assessment before being required to perform night work and periodically there after. Under 18's should undergo a capabilities assessment. It is important that any variations to the Working Time Directive be negotiated properly to give as much protection as possible to GMB members.

Produced by the GMB, London Region,
Thorne House, 152 Brent Street, Hendon. NW4 2DP
Tel: 020 8202 8272
Fax: 020 8202 2893