IDS HR Study 862, January 2008

Overtime

• Looks at the eligibility for paid overtime and the typical premia paid
• Sets out the overtime arrangements for 34 named organisations
• Examines the methods used by companies to reduce the amount of overtime worked

With many employees still working more than 48 hours a week, the UK’s so-called ‘long hours culture’ remains in the spotlight. But despite strong opposition within the EU, the UK’s individual opt out to the 48-hour limit on the average working week remains in place. This Study focuses on paid overtime, worked by over one in five full-time employees.

The Study looks at the overtime arrangements at 34 organisations. Each entry provides details of:

• the premia paid
• the overtime calculator applied
• minimum qualifying periods
• managing overtime

It also considers the approaches used by employers to reduce the amount of paid overtime worked. These may include: encouraging employees to take time off in lieu; rearranging working time; reviewing employment levels; changing existing pay arrangements; or introducing an annual hours system.

In addition, the Study contains a brief summary of the Working Time Regulations.