Most adult workers covered by the Working Time Regulations are entitled to a rest from work of at least 11 hours in every 24 hours. However, in some cases (e.g. where continuous staffing is required such as in hospitals, care homes and prisons) the rest break can be delayed as long as compensatory rest is allowed later on.

Young workers aged 16 and 17 are entitled to 12 uninterrupted hours in each 24 hour period in which they work.

Some workers (including seafarers, air cabin crew, drivers and mobile rail workers) are covered by different rules on working time.