Manage overtime

Introduction

Overtime working is routinely used by many businesses as a way of coping with changes in demand or labour shortages. If you frequently require employees to work overtime, this could be a sign of inefficiency in your business.

Unless there are special provisions in an employee's contract, you must get their agreement to work overtime.

This guide covers the legal and management issues concerning overtime working, as well as the pros and cons of using overtime to deal with demand changes. It also looks at some of the alternatives to overtime working which may be cheaper or more flexible to operate.

Subjects covered in this guide

• Introduction
• Overtime and employment contracts
• Health and safety issues
• Pros and cons of overtime
• Part-time employees and alternatives
• Using overtime successfully
• Time off in lieu
• Here's how I manage working hours to control costs and avoid unnecessary pressure on staff