Between meetings that are linked, overflowing mailboxes and pressure from the superiors, the break sometimes seems a luxury. However, it is a right, and here is its minimum duration.
Take a break is not lost time as we sometimes want to make believe. It is time invested to be more fit, more focused, and happier at work. The break is essential for the body, the brain and productivity. Your brain, like any muscle, gets tired …
Working non-stop for hours reduces concentration, increases errors, and slows down the reflection. It therefore allows you to “reset” attention and improve cognitive performance. In addition, continuous work, especially under pressure, increases the level of stress. Take a few minutes to breathe, walk, or just get away from the screen soothes the nervous system, reduces tension, and improves mood. It is often outside the office or during a break that the best ideas arrive. An released spirit is also more creative. You will understand, the daily break is not a favor of your employer, but indeed a right for all employees. So precisely, do you know how long you can claim?
In a recent Instagram video, @marion_dhm_rha director of human resources (HRD) recalls a right often overlooked by employees: the minimum legal break time. Article L3121-16 of the Labor Code clearly stipulates that any employee working at least six hours a day must benefit from a minimum break of 20 consecutive minutes. This break can be granted either immediately after six hours of work or before this duration is fully carried out.
In principle, the break time is not remunerated, unless it is considered active working time. This is the case when the employee must remain at the disposal of his employer during his break, without being able to freely go about his personal occupations. If your employer does not comply with the provisions relating to the break time, you can inform the labor inspection or enter the industrial tribunal.
It is important to note that certain collective conventions or company agreements may provide longer pauses or specific methods. Beyond 20 regulatory minutes, specialists recommend adding a few short regular breaks. Getting up, walking, leaving for a few minutes, getting screens … These micro-parents can make a huge difference in a busy day.
