How do the Working Time Regulations affect me?
Can my employer make me work more than a 48-hour week?
No. You cannot be made to work over 48 hours a week, over a standard averaging period of 17 weeks. If you are forced to do so, contact your local RCN representative to discuss making a complaint
Can I work more than 48 hours a week if I want to?
Yes, but you need to sign a written agreement with your employer confirming your willingness to work longer. This agreement must identify you, set out the terms of the agreement and specify the period of notice (between 7 days, and 3 months) to terminate the agreement. You can end this agreement at any time provided that the agreed notice is given in writing.
If you have more than one employer, and work more than 48 hours a week, all of your employers are required to take “reasonable steps” to ensure compliance with the 48-hour time limit. In this instance you should have an agreement with both employers if you intend to work more than 48 hours on average.
To monitor hours, the RCN advises that it is reasonable for your employers to ask for details of any other jobs held and hours worked, but no further details such as salary etc.
Check your individual contract to ensure that it does not state that you should not take up jobs elsewhere without the prior consent of your employer.