In a previous life this regulation or to be more precise, rumour of it, caused me great concern. Firstly it would have driven in considerable cost and secondly and more importantly, caused huge work pattern disruption for everyone in ops. This caused me the most concern as the shift working pattern should be by common concensus of all of those that have to work it. This is what we did and where possible made it as flexible as possible to accomodate the work life balance.
Now if this regulation comes into effect and I'm not atall sure that it will, it will cause you guys to:
1) Loose money - no overtime
2) Reduce your annual leave
3) cost you more in commuting to work
You guys need to think very carefully about this new law and oppose it in numbers. A twelve hour shift pattern can be a killer (nights!!) but it does offer the best work life balance. 8 hour shifts seem to last just as long as twelve!
Rgds
FEBA