Rest breaks and rest periods

Updating author: Nicky Stibbs

Brightmine editor: Zuraida Curtis

Summary

• Under the Working Time Regulations 1998 (SI 1998/1833) workers have the right to a minimum daily rest period between each working day or shift. (See Rest breaks and rest periods)
• Workers also have the right to a minimum weekly rest period. (See Rest breaks and rest periods)
• Workers have the right to a minimum daily rest break in every working day lasting more than six hours. Young workers have the right to a minimum rest break in every working day lasting more than four and a half hours. (See Rest breaks and rest periods)
• Some categories of worker are excluded from these rights. (See Exclusions)
• A worker who is denied their statutory right to rest breaks and rest periods may complain to an employment tribunal. (See Complaints to an employment tribunal)
• Separate entitlements apply to mobile workers subject to the EU drivers' hours rules. (See Road transport sector)