Working Time Directive in Transport & Logistics (WTD)

The Working Time Directive (WTD) is a crucial regulation in the transport and logistics sector, designed to safeguard the health and safety of drivers by limiting their working hours and ensuring adequate rest periods. Compliance with the WTD helps prevent fatigue-related accidents, enhances driver well-being, and promotes operational efficiency. The directive mandates maximum weekly working hours, daily and weekly rest requirements, and breaks during shifts. For transport and logistics companies, adhering to these regulations is essential not only for legal compliance but also for maintaining a productive and motivated workforce. Utilizing digital tools for monitoring and managing driver hours can streamline compliance and optimize scheduling. Prioritizing WTD adherence ensures safer roads, reduces legal risks, and supports a sustainable business model. Stay compliant and promote a healthy work environment in the competitive transport and logistics industry by adhering to the Working Time Directive.

Enforcement & Penalties

The working time regulations for mobile workers will be enforced in Great Britain by DVSA and in Northern Ireland by DVTA.

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EU / EC Hours Rules

In the scope of the EU drivers’ hours rules, then you are subject to the Road Transport WT Regulations 2005, unless you are an occasional mobile worker.

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Horizontal Directive (1998)

The number of hours worked each week should be averaged out over 17 weeks. This period of time is called the 'reference period'.

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Mobile Workers

Mobile workers are covered by the Regulations if they are involved in operations subject to the European drivers' hours’ rules or in some cases the AETR.

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Period of Availability (POA)

Generally speaking, a period of availability ( POA ) is waiting time, the duration of which must be known in advance.

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Record Keeping

Employers are required to keep a record of employees working time. It is always important that it is recorded as accurately as possible.

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Reference Periods

The Government defines a reference period as a 17 (or occasionally 18) week period where a worker's time is calculated and averages a 48-hour week.

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Road Transport WTD

The WTD regulations define 'working time' as being from the beginning to the end of the mobile workers working day.

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