48-hour opt-outWhat it means, in plain English

The 48-hour opt-out is a written agreement in which an individual UK worker chooses to work more than the 48-hour average weekly limit set by the Working Time Regulations. It must be signed voluntarily by the individual, cannot be imposed through a collective agreement, and the worker can cancel it with at least seven days notice, or up to three months if the agreement says so. Employers must keep a record of who has opted out and must not penalise anyone who refuses.