Hours, rest breaks and the working week

Almost all workers are protected by law from working excessively long hours. Most workers' hours are governed by the Working Time Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2016.

This guide will help you understand the maximum hours your workers can work and what breaks and rest periods you must offer them.

It explains when your workers can agree to waive or vary the rules, the special rules that apply to young workers, and the exempt sectors.