What are the requirements for meal and rest periods?

Meal and rest periods are regulated by the Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry. Generally, employers are required to provide employees with a meal period of at least 30 minutes, and may not require the employee to work more than five consecutive hours without a meal period. In addition, employers must also provide employees with a rest period of at least 10 minutes for every four hours worked. This rest period should be given in the middle of the work period. The employer is not required to pay for this meal or rest period, but the employee must be able to take the meal or rest period as long as it does not interfere with work. Employees who work shifts of seven or more hours must be given at least a 30 minute meal period, which can be waived by mutual agreement of both the employer and employee. Employees working shifts of less than seven hours can waive the meal period. The requirements for meal and rest periods are designed to ensure that employees have the necessary breaks throughout their shift to remain healthy and productive. Employers who fail to provide meal and rest periods as prescribed by law may be subject to fines, penalties, and other legal action. Employees who do not receive the required meal and rest periods may also be able to file a claim against their employer.

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What are the requirements for meal and rest periods?

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