Under the Working Time Regulations, a worker's average working time (including all overtime and extramural employment) must not exceed 48 hours per week.

This is calculated as an average over a rolling 52 week period. Whilst we would advise against working long hours on a regular basis, you can, on a voluntary basis, sign an opt out, allowing you to work in excess of 48 hours a week.

An opt out form is available for anyone who:

• Works regular overtime and would be prepared and able to work voluntary overtime, where required which results in their weekly working hours being excess of 48 hours in any 7 day period; or
• Has a second job which, in addition to their current post with Falkirk Council, will result in them working in excess of 48 hours per week.

• Working Time Regulations Opt Out form (MS Word, 20KB)

Any completed forms should be returned directly to your line manager. Your line manager will not be able to authorise any overtime above 48 hours or approve extra mural employment above this limit unless an opt out form has been received.

Finally, we would again highlight your health and wellbeing is important and advise against working regular long hours.