How many hours can you work over 4 days?

[CatsShinyWhiskers]

My employer has said we are not able to work more than 32 contracted hours over 4 days. Is this a new law or just their new policy? Why would they put in such a restriction?

That's their rule. Plenty of people work 12 hour shifts 3-4 per week.

I've worked 12.5 hrs per day over 3 days just this week so that's your work's policy not a national one.

Under 18's can't work more than 8 hours per day. Other than that Working Time Directive is 48 hours per week with 11 hours rest between working days & 1 day off per week (or 2 per fortnight)

Up to them. Could be many reasons for the restriction. Does it change your terms and conditions?

I think per the WTD you are supposed to be permitted a minimum of 11 hours off per day (and work a max of 48 hours per week, but only averaged over 12 weeks) but that would give you 52 hours not 32.