Employers in Ireland are required to keep accurate records of employees' working time including start and finish times, daily and weekly hours worked, and leave taken. These records must be retained for 3 years. If an electronic clocking system is not used, employers must fill out form OWT1. Certain exemptions apply for workers who set their own hours or work voluntarily. Records of rest breaks are not mandatory if electronic systems track this or form OWT1 is completed along with informing employees of break entitlements and procedures. Non-compliance could result in fines up to €1,900 or court conviction.

1. The working time records an
employer must keep in
Ireland
Terry Gorry & Co. Solicitors

2. The Organisation of Working Time Act 1997
Starting time
Finishing time
Hours worked each day
Hours worked each week
Leave taken
Records must be kept for 3 years

3. No electronic clocking system?
Fill out form OWT1

4. Exemptions
For workers who determine their own hours
For work performed voluntarily

5. Records of rest breaks
Not necessary if
You have an electronic recording system or
You fill out form OWT1 and
a) inform the employee in writing of his entitlement to rest breaks and
b) inform the employee of the procedures to be taken if he is unable to take his
breaks

6. Enforcement
Court fines of up to €1,900
Court conviction