Over 70% of the UK's workforce are working longer than their basic hours and of these 84% never claim overtime, according to a survey by Water Wellpoint.

The survey also reveals that the recession has directly impacted working habits, with nearly half of respondents saying they are working longer hours in 2009 compared to last year.

Small business owners have been warned that if staff work too many hours then their productivity, and that of the business, will suffer.

"As binge working becomes the norm, it is more important than ever that businesses look after the health of their staff, working with organisations like ours to help employees manage their own health," said Rory Murphy of Water Wellpoint.