In the United Kingdom, there are rules and regulations that govern the number of hours that HGV (Heavy Goods Vehicle) drivers are allowed to work. These rules are in place to ensure the safety of both the driver and other road users. In general, HGV drivers are not allowed to work 7 days a week without a break.
Under the EU drivers’ hours rules, which are still in place despite the UK leaving the European Union, HGV drivers are limited to a maximum of 56 hours of driving in a week. This can be extended to 60 hours in a single week, provided that the driver does not exceed an average of 48 hours over a 17-week period. Additionally, drivers are required to take a daily rest period of 11 hours, which can be split into two periods, one of which must be at least 3 hours long. HGV Medical
In addition to these regulations, there are other factors that can impact an HGV driver's ability to work 7 days a week. For example, some employers may have internal policies or contractual obligations that limit the number of hours that an HGV driver can work in a week or require a certain number of days off per week. Additionally, HGV drivers must comply with tachograph regulations, which require drivers to record their driving and rest periods using a tachograph device.
It's also worth noting that while HGV drivers are not generally allowed to work 7 days a week without a break, there are certain exemptions for drivers engaged in certain activities, such as emergency or critical deliveries. In these cases, drivers may be allowed to work longer hours or without the required rest periods.
However, even if these exemptions apply, it's important for HGV drivers to prioritize their own health and safety, as well as that of other road users. Working long hours without adequate rest can increase the risk of fatigue, which can lead to accidents and other safety concerns. As such, it's important for HGV drivers to be aware of their limits and to take breaks as needed to ensure that they are able to perform their duties safely and effectively.
In summary, HGV drivers in the UK are generally not allowed to work 7 days a week without a break. Under EU drivers' hours rules, drivers are limited to a maximum of 56 hours of driving in a week, and are required to take a daily rest period of 11 hours. Other factors, such as employer policies and tachograph regulations, can also impact the number of hours that an HGV driver is allowed to work. While there are certain exemptions for drivers engaged in emergency or critical activities, it's important for HGV drivers to prioritize their own safety and to take breaks as needed to avoid fatigue and ensure safe driving practices.