What Are the Average Working Hours Per Week in the UK?

The average full-time worker in the UK works 36.6 hours per week, according to the latest data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS). This figure is governed by the Working Time Regulations 1998, which set a 48-hour maximum working week for most adults, though several key exceptions and an opt-out agreement exist. Your actual hours can vary significantly based on your industry, age, and employment type, directly influencing work-life balance and weekly income.

What Are the Average Working Hours in the UK?

Average working hours represent the mean number of hours worked per week by a specific group, such as full-time employees in a particular industry. For the UK, the ONS reported an average of 36.6 hours for full-time workers in early 2022. This represents a slight decline over recent decades; for comparison, the average was 38.2 hours in 1992. This mean average is calculated by totalling the hours of everyone in the group and dividing by the number of people, providing a reliable benchmark for job seekers and employers.

What Is the Legal Limit on Working Hours in the UK?

The standard legal limit for workers aged 18 and over is 48 hours per week, as stipulated by the Working Time Regulations 1998. This limit is calculated over a 17-week reference period, which averages out fluctuations in weekly hours. It's crucial to understand that working beyond this limit must be voluntary. Employers can ask staff to work more than 48 hours, but employees have the right to refuse without facing negative consequences.

However, workers can choose to opt-out of the 48-hour limit. This agreement must be made in writing and is not a condition of employment. Based on our assessment experience, employers cannot unfairly dismiss or treat an employee for refusing to sign an opt-out agreement. Certain professions are also fully exempt from these regulations, including:

• Armed forces and emergency services personnel.
• Domestic workers in private homes.
• Senior executives who control their own working time.

Are There Jobs That Can't Exceed the 48-Hour Limit?

Yes, for critical safety reasons, some roles cannot opt-out of the 48-hour limit. These include:

• Airline staff: Pilots and cabin crew are governed by the Civil Aviation (Working Time) Regulations 2004, which cap annual flight duty hours.
• Road transport drivers: Drivers of Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs) and buses have strict limits to ensure road safety.

For young workers, the rules are even more stringent. Those under 18 cannot work more than 40 hours per week or 8 hours per day, with further restrictions for those in compulsory education.

What Factors Affect Your Weekly Working Hours?

Your weekly hours are not just a number on a contract; they are influenced by several key factors that impact your daily life and career choices. Understanding these can help you find a role that suits your lifestyle.

• Industry: Sectors like healthcare, law, and investment banking are known for demanding schedules that often exceed the national average. Conversely, roles in education or public administration may align more closely with standard hours.
• Employment Type: A part-time role, by definition, involves fewer hours than a full-time position. On the other end of the spectrum, freelancers and business owners often work highly variable hours, frequently surpassing the average.
• Personal Choice: Career ambitions and financial goals can lead individuals to seek roles with overtime or to voluntarily opt-out of the 48-hour week to increase their income or gain experience.

The table below summarizes how these factors can influence your work schedule:

How Do Working Hours Relate to Weekly Income?

The average weekly income for full-time workers in the UK was £598 (equivalent to an annual salary of approximately £31,096) as of February 2022, according to the ONS. With the average workweek at 36.6 hours, this translates to an average hourly pay of roughly £16.33. It's important to note that this is a national average; actual salaries and hourly rates vary greatly by industry, experience, and location. Overtime pay can significantly increase weekly income for those who work beyond their standard contract hours.

In summary, when evaluating a job opportunity, consider the following key points:

• The UK average for full-time work is 36.6 hours per week.
• The legal maximum is generally 48 hours, but you can voluntarily opt-out.
• Your industry and job type are primary determinants of your actual schedule.
• Always understand your employment contract and know your rights regarding working time regulations.