Understanding UK Illegal Working Hours
We’re a team of calm, confident and cost-conscious employment lawyers. Call us today on 01793 296581
Understanding UK Illegal Working Hours
The UK Working Time Directive is a set of regulations which is designed to protect workers. Under the working time directive, it is illegal to work more than an average of 48 hours per week over a period of 17 weeks. If unsure, check your employment contract and your employment rights with a qualified solicitor.
The working time directive is optional, and individual workers are allowed to opt out of it as long as they are over the age of 18. Those who are under 18 are not allowed to work for more than 8 hours a day, or 40 hours per week.

Exclusions to the Illegal Working Hours
There are some professions where someone may be required to work more than 48 hours a week. For example, the armed forces and emergency services may be expected to work longer hours. Domestic servants working in a private household are allowed to work more than 48 hours a week, as are executives who set their own working hours, and those who work on vessels located on inland waterways (such as sea fishermen).
An employer is allowed to ask their employees to opt out of the 48-hour work week, however, they are not allowed to treat the employee differently or sack them if they are unwilling to do so. Employees can opt-out either indefinitely, or for a certain period, for example for the duration of a difficult project.
There are some professions that are not allowed to opt-out. Drivers and airline staff are required to have rest periods and breaks at regular intervals in order to ensure the safety of the people that they serve, and are forbidden from waiving their right to that rest. You cannot be forced to cancel your opt-out agreement by your employer, and you must give your employer notice if you decide you are no longer willing to opt-out.
Disclaimer: The contents of this article are for information purposes only and should not be relied upon as formal legal advice. We cannot accept responsibility for any loss as a result of acts or omissions taken in respect of this article. Specific legal advice should be sort tailored to the individual circumstances in all cases.
For any information relating to our services please give us a call and we will be very happy to help.
What Can We Help With?
- Settlement and compromise agreements
- Unfair dismissal advice
- Employment tribunal advice
- Discrimination claims
- Redundancy advice
- Breach of contract
- Advice on maternity and paternity leave
- Book A Free Consultation
- Understand Your Situation
- Know Where You Stand
Our 3 Step Process
Book A Free Consultation
This complimentary consultation allows our employment solicitors to understand more about your specific situation so we can provide you with the best advice possible.
We’ll lay out your options and will advise you upfront of any costs involved.
Our 3 Step Process
Understand Your Situation
Understanding your unique situation will help us to understand how we can help you move forward with more clarity.
Although everyone’s situation is unique, we’ve most likely dealt with similar scenarios before.
Our 3 Step Process
Know Where You Stand
Whether that’s pursuing unfair dismissal, negotiating a larger settlement agreement, starting a claim for discrimination or simply having peace of mind.
We’ll help you feel clearer and more settled.
0 / 120
5 star reviews
0 / 50
5 star reviews
Yell.com
0 / 211
5 star reviews
ReviewSolicitors
Client Feedback
We have formed many long-lasting relationships by listening to feedback and understanding our clients’ needs. Our employment law advice provides exceptional care and tailored support.
“DPH Legal has provided expert advice on all aspects of employment law. When advising us on any matters there was always a choice of action that could be taken and clear instruction on risks and options open to the company.”
Tracey Rees
“Outstanding I fully recommend DPH Legal to anyone who needs legal representation or advice for even the most contentious and upsetting disputes. David Harris and the whole team are second to none, and they give fact-based advice to get the best outcomes for the client.”
SilverPot63
“From beginning to end they were a pleasure to deal with. They were extremely efficient and the lawyers at DPH Legal were without doubt experts in their field. They conduct themselves with impeccable professionalism and remain in constant communication throughout.”
Behrooz Vahedifar
Award Winning Service
Our award-winning legal services are recognised for excellence, professionalism, and client success. We provide tailored strategies with a focus on precision, integrity, and results.
Contact a Lawyer Today
Davidson House,
Forbury Square,
Reading, Berkshire,
RG1 3EU
0118 914 5622
info@dphlegal.com