Apologies if this is a simple answer but ive not worked in a job which involved WTR. Ive come across a job which i have applied for and the ad states" This vacancy is covered by the Working Time Regulations". Ive looked on the net for working time regulations and
from what i have read am i right in thinking its the maximum number of hours i can work in a week but if i opt out of it is there no maximum number of hours.
Some companies and jobs must comply with the WTR - we work in an office and we are bound by the WTR of 48 hours max per week. Other industries are not covered, people in road transport have different sets of regulations.
If your advertised job is covered by WTR then (IMO) you will be working a max of 48 hours p.w., there will be no option for an individual to opt out.
Companies in UK are still allowed to opt out, Europe doesn't want us to but we do. You understanding of the regs is exactly correct, the WTR suggests 48 hours max but if the company allows you to, you can opt out. However you do still have to have 11 rest or be compensated for it plus a few other things under the WTR.
It might mean that the company in question does keep all employees to 48 hours or if its a driving job or other industries with their own regs then it might differ.