Night Work
Work carried out between midnight and 7 am, where at least 3 hours of the shift fall in this window.
Night workers (e.g., hotel night porters) have extra protections. They cannot work more than 8 hours on average in a 24-hour period and are entitled to free health assessments.
Frequently Asked Questions
There is no statutory right to a "night shift premium" or extra pay under Irish law. Shift premiums are a matter of contract negotiation or Joint Labour Committee (JLC) agreements (though most JLCs are currently inactive). However, employers must ensure night workers are assessed for health and safety suitability, as night work is legally recognised as physically demanding.
Under the Organisation of Working Time Act, night time is generally considered the period between midnight and 7 am. A "night worker" is someone who normally works at least 3 hours of their daily shift during this period, and for at least 50% of their annual working time. This is relevant for hotel night porters and bar staff in late-night venues.