Night Work
Work carried out during night-time hours, subject to specific health and hours protections.
Night work refers to hours worked during a defined night-time period, typically overnight. Because it can affect health, safety and wellbeing, it is treated distinctly from ordinary daytime working under employment law.
In Ireland, the Organisation of Working Time Act sets specific protections for night workers, including limits on average nightly hours and an entitlement to a free health assessment before starting night work and at regular intervals afterwards. Contracts or agreements may also provide a shift premium, though a premium is not a general statutory requirement.
Employers scheduling night work must record hours accurately, manage fatigue and rest, and monitor the health of night workers. Good rostering and time-and-attendance practices help meet these obligations.
