Working Time Regulations

On 1st October 1998 Working Time Regulations came into force giving both employees and workers a range of new rights including:

• a maximum average of 48 hours working week (subject to some exceptions)
• a minimum of 28 days paid holiday (for those working a 5 day week)
• a right to 24 hours off in every 7 day period
• an entitlement to a break of 20 minutes if working for 6 hours

There are special rules for night workers, workers whose work involves ‘special hazards’ and young workers.