Break periods are normally available and encouraged when the interruption of work for a break does not interfere with the effective operations of a department. There is no law governing compulsory breaks but when work schedules permit, the privilege of a break period is permitted. Employees must schedule break periods with their supervisor in accordance with the following guidelines:
- Break periods may not exceed twenty (20) minutes per day.
- Breaks periods are considered paid time.
- Supervisors may require employees to remain at their workstation during a break period while slowing or reducing their normal workload.
- Break periods may not be taken during the first or last hours of the workday nor should the workday be shortened because a break has not been taken.
- Meal periods may not be extended by adding a break period immediately before or after the meal period.
- Break periods may not be accumulated from one day to the next to add to other time off benefits.
- Break periods are not normally available for employees who work less than four hours a day.