What are the rules for breaks and meal periods?

In the state of Washington, employers are required to provide rest and meal breaks under the state’s labor and employment laws. Employees who work more than 3.5 hours in a given day must be given a rest break of at least 10 minutes. Meal breaks are required after 5 hours of work, with employees being given a minimum of 30 minutes for their meal break. These breaks must be given at the employer’s expense, and employees must be given the opportunity to take them. Employees cannot be required to work during their meal breaks, but employers can require that employees remain on premises for meal breaks. Employers must also provide a rest break for minors, or employees under the age of 18, of at least 15 minutes after working for 4 hours. Also, while minors are not entitled to a meal break, employers must provide them with an unpaid meal break of at least 30 minutes after working for 5 hours, unless they have obtained a waiver from the Department of Labor and Industries. Employers are required to post notice of the Washington meal and rest break rules in a conspicuous place where all employees can read it. Failing to comply with these rules can lead to fines and other legal penalties. It’s important for employers and employees to understand the requirements around rest and meal breaks in Washington to ensure compliance.

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What are the rules for breaks and meal periods?

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