UK Government Implements Strict Regulations for Night Workers

The UK Government has published regulations concerning night workers, defining a night worker as any staff member who regularly works at least 3 hours during the night period, which is typically from 11pm to 6am. Employers and workers can agree on a different 7-hour window, provided it includes hours between midnight and 5am.

Night workers must not exceed an average of 8 hours of work in any 24-hour period, a limit that cannot be waived by the workers. This average is calculated over a 17-week reference period, extendable to 52 weeks under a collective agreement.

For night workers facing special hazards or significant mental or physical strain, the limit is stricter, allowing no more than 8 hours in a single 24-hour period without averaging. Employers must conduct risk assessments and maintain records of night workers' hours for at least two years.

Additionally, workers aged 16 or 17 have restrictions on working hours, with a blanket ban on working between midnight and 4am, with certain exceptions.