The Working Time Regulations 1998 - also known as the Working Time Directive - is a piece of employment legislation designed to prevent the majority of workers from being forced to work an average of more than 48 hours a week, or 40 hours a week if you're aged 16-18. This 'average' working hours figure is calculated over a 17-week period. These important regulations protect workers' rights by stating that every employee must: Not work more than an average of 48 hours a week, or 40 for those aged 16-18 Be given 5.6 weeks' paid holiday every year Have at least one full day off every week, or two days off every two weeks Be given a 20-minute rest break on all working days longer than six hours Not work more than eight hours on night shift in any 24-hour period If your employer isn't meeting all these rules, unless you're in an exempted occupation, it may be in breach of the Working Time Regulations 1998. If so, you may wish to speak to one of our experienced employment solicitors about your rights. Call us on 0330 041 5869 or contact us and we'll call you.