§ Mr. McAvoyTo ask the President of the Board of Trade what measures he has taken to protect employees from being forced to work for unreasonably long hours. [27444]
Mr. John M. TaylorHours of work are best agreed between employers and their employees, or their representatives, in the light of their own particular circumstances.
Employees who work long hours are protected under the general duties of the Health and Safety at Work etc., Act 1974. Under the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1992, employers are required to carry out a risk assessment to identify hazards, such as fatigue, and to evaluate the extent of the risks involved, so that measures can be taken to comply with the general duties of the Health and Safety at Work etc., Act 1974.