Manage overtime

When allocating overtime, you need to be aware of health and safety considerations.

Health and safety considerations for overtime

Fatigue

Excessive overtime may make workers tired. They may then pose a risk to themselves or others, particularly if they are driving a vehicle or using dangerous or heavy machinery. Carry out risk assessments to ensure any dangers are identified and effectively managed.

Compliance with legal requirements

For example, maximum working week and night working limits are provided for by the Working Time Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2016.

Avoid allocating excessive overtime to shift workers

Particularly those working at night. Any health problems that may result from disturbance of the body's normal rhythms, for example, diabetes, will be made worse by fatigue. Read how you can promote healthy work-life balance in your business.

Avoid situations where employees work alone

This is particularly important in potentially hazardous environments such as factories or where employees are otherwise vulnerable. If working alone is the only solution, check that employees do not have any medical condition making it unsuitable for them to work alone, for example, epilepsy. You have a responsibility to provide a safe and healthy workplace. See how to ensure lone workers' safety.

You may also want to consider additional security for staff working late at night, eg improved car park lighting or safe transport home.