Table 2.

Overview of findings

Overall findings	Detail of findings
Perceived effects of the WTR on working hours	General agreement that working hours were much improved under the WTR; 48 h limit appropriate (but desire for greater flexibility); intended benefits achieved to some extent
Implementation of the WTR in practice: effects on fatigue	Different shift systems and patterns of work (timing and adjustment) Long periods without a day off Averaging over 26 weeks can still allow over 48 working hours in one week Work compression/work intensity Rest periods not always taken
Drivers to work long hours	Workload/completion of tasks Taking up educational opportunities at work Taking work home Commitment and responsibility to patients and colleagues; collegiality Cultural expectations Professional reputation Views of nature of professionalism Workforce issues
Effects of fatigue	Detriment to skills and judgement: most felt to affect efficiency rather than safety Negative effect on ability to retain new information Mood and manner (compounded by physical discomfort and hunger)

WTR, working time regulations.