What is the Working Time Regulations?

The Working Time Regulations is a piece of UK employment legislation that is often underappreciated by employers — yet it governs some of the most fundamental aspects of how working time is structured, including limits on working hours, rest breaks, and minimum holiday entitlement. Understanding what the Regulations require helps founders ensure their employment practices are compliant from the outset.

The Working Time Regulations 1998 set out minimum standards for working time in the UK, including a maximum average working week, minimum daily and weekly rest periods, and a minimum paid annual leave entitlement. Workers can voluntarily opt out of the maximum working week limit in writing and can withdraw the opt-out with appropriate notice. The minimum holiday entitlement and rest requirements cannot be contracted out of and apply to all workers regardless of any agreement to the contrary.

Compliance with the Working Time Regulations is not optional — breaches can result in enforcement action from the Health and Safety Executive and employment tribunal claims. Keeping records of working hours is particularly important for businesses with workers who regularly exceed the average working week. Our guide to the Working Time Regulations covers the key rights and how UK employers can ensure their practices comply.