Working Time Regs 1998 · Reg 7
Healthy nights. Safe shifts.
If people work regularly at night, the law says you must offer them a free health assessment. We run the whole process, from questionnaires to specialist assessments.
Your obligations as an employer
The Working Time Regulations 1998 require employers to offer free health assessments to workers regularly scheduled to work at night. A ‘night worker’ is someone who normally works at least three hours during the night period, between 11pm and 6am.
How the assessment works
Employers usually take this approach:
- Employees complete a health questionnaire.
- If the answers show anything that could affect their ability to work nights, they’re referred for a specialist occupational health assessment.
- The assessment offers reassurance, particularly to employees with underlying health conditions and to pregnant workers, that they can work their shift pattern safely.
Working with Absolute OH
We work closely with your organisation to carry out night worker assessments, and health surveillance medicals where they’re needed, so your night workers stay safe and productive.
What happens
The process, step by step.
- 01
Questionnaire
Sent paperlessly through the portal before someone starts nights, and again at regular intervals.
- 02
Screening
An OH practitioner reviews every response confidentially.
- 03
Assessment
Anyone flagged is invited to a specialist OH assessment.
- 04
Advice
Clear guidance on fitness for night work and any adjustments.
FAQs
Night worker assessments: questions.
How often should night workers be assessed?
Before someone starts night work, then at regular intervals. Annually is common practice.
Can an employee refuse?
Yes. The assessment must be offered, but the employee doesn’t have to take it up. Keep a record that you offered it.
Surveillance checker
Anything else you need?
Most workplaces have more than one hazard. Add the rest and see your full surveillance programme.
Step 1 · Tick everything your people are exposed to
Step 2 · What you’re likely to need
0 programmes
Select the hazards in your workplace and we’ll show which health surveillance applies, the regulation behind it and how often it’s due.
General guidance based on HSE regulations. Your risk assessment decides what’s required, and we’ll confirm it with you.
Related
You might also need.
Noise Regs 2005 · Reg 9
AudiometryHearing checks for anyone exposed to workplace noise. A 20-minute on-site assessment.Learn more
COSHH 2002 · Reg 11
COSHH surveillanceAnnual skin and lung-function checks for people who work with dust, fumes, vapours, flour or spices.Learn more
Vibration Regs 2005 · Reg 7
Hand-arm vibrationHAVS health surveillance for anyone using vibrating hand-held tools such as breakers, saws and grinders.Learn more