What are the requirements for meal and rest periods?

In Massachusetts, employees are entitled to meal and rest periods in accordance with state law. The law requires that employers must provide employees with at least one 30-minute unpaid meal period if they work more than 6 hours in a day. Additionally, employers must also provide employees with a 10-minute unpaid rest period for every 4 hours worked. Employers are not permitted to require employees to work during their meal or rest periods, and they must provide a place for employees to rest or take their meals in order to comply with the law. An employer’s failure to comply with these requirements can result in a fine of up to $1,000. Employees under the age of 18 are entitled to meal or rest periods every 5 hours while they are working. They must be allowed to take the required 30-minute meal period, 10-minute rest period, and still be allowed to finish their shift on time. Employers must also ensure that minors are not required to work more than 8 hours per day or 40 hours per week. In addition, employers must ensure that meal and rest periods are taken at a reasonable time, based on the work schedule and the needs of the employee. It is important that employers comply with all meal and rest period requirements in order to protect their employee’s health and safety.

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