Working Time Regulations

5. Paperwork

To avoid problems later on, make sure you have accurate and up-to-date records.

5.1 You may need to keep records to show that you are complying with the requirements of the working time regulations.

• If you employ on a contract for a normal nine-to-five environment, you do not need to keep special records. Payslips that quote hours worked are sufficient.
• You should keep records of night work and any related health assessments.

5.2 You must keep a record of workers who have agreed that the 48-hour limit will not apply to them.

• Agreements should be in writing and signed by the worker.
• Reference to an opt-out agreement should be made in the worker's contract but the agreement itself should not be incorporated within the contract and signed separately.
• The agreement can be cancelled at any time, but the worker must give the employer seven days' notice, or longer if agreed (up to three months).