Working Time Regulations

2. Night Work

2.1 Night workers (who regularly work at least three hours during night time) should not exceed an average of eight hours in each 24-hour period, averaged over 17 weeks.

• Night time is a period of at least seven hours which includes the hours from midnight to 5am. Unless otherwise agreed by the employer and workers, night time runs from 11pm to 6am.
• The averaging period can be extended by agreement or in specified circumstances.
• There is no opt-out facility for night work regulations.

2.2 Night workers whose work involves special hazards or physical or mental strain are limited to eight hours for every 24-hour period (eg workers in the steel industry).

• There are some exemptions in health and public services (eg nursing homes).
• Night workers in the transport industry are limited to ten hours in 24.

2.3 Night workers are entitled to a health assessment before being required to perform night work.

• 16-18 year olds should not normally be allowed to work nights.
• Adolescent workers are entitled to a health and capacities assessment, which covers the worker's physical and psychological abilities to do the work.
• Assessments should be repeated regularly.