Working hours in the UK are governed by the Working Time Regulations 1998. These limit the working week to an average of 48 hours (although there is an opt-out), and the working day to an average of 8 hours. They also give workers and employees the right to paid leave and specified rest breaks. Here you'll find resources giving the basics, Q&As on specific issues, and relevant case law. There's also a separate set of Q&As on managing leave for reservists in the armed forces.
Understand the basics of the Working Time Regulations in the UK, working hours trends, holidays and special leave.
Commonly asked questions on the legal issues relating to the Working Time Regulations
Commonly asked questions on the legal issues relating to the UK’s reserve forces
Selected cases on working time, including on-call working, travelling time, and opt-out agreements
