What is the European Working Time Directive?
The EWTD is a directive from the Council of Europe (93/104/EC) to protect the health and safety of workers in the European Union. It lays down minimum requirements in relation to working hours, rest periods, annual leave and working arrangements for night workers. The Directive was enacted into UK law as the Working Time Regulations, which took effect from 1October 1998. The Government negotiated an extension of up to twelve years to prepare for full implementation for doctors in training.
