TheEuropeanWorkingTimeDirective
The European working time directive resulted in the Working Time Regulations coming into force in October 1998. In brief these lay down:
- a limit of an average of 48 hours a week which a worker can be required to work (though workers can choose to work more if they want to)
- a limit of an average of 8 hours work in 24 which night-workers can be required to work
- a right for night workers to receive free health assessments
- a right to 11 hours rest a day; a right to a day off each week
- a right to an in-work rest break if the working day is longer than six hours
- a right to four weeks paid leave per year.
You cannot be compelled to sign an agreement opting out of the regulations and an employer cannot dismiss you nor subject you to detriment should you refuse. Public and Bank Holidays may be counted within the 4 week/20 day annual paid leave entitlement.