Where Rest and Meal Breaks Commonly Go Wrong

Law Lenz: Employment Law Done Right

The law guarantees employees minimum rest and meal breaks to ensure wellbeing and productivity. These breaks come in two flavours: paid 10-minute rest breaks and unpaid 30-minute meal breaks. The number of breaks an employee gets depends on how long they work. However, even with clear guidelines, employers are still getting it wrong. So how do these misunderstandings and oversights occur?

In this episode of Law Lenz, we dive into the critical but often misunderstood area of rest and meal breaks. Join your host, Sanam, as she explores the common pitfalls and provides essential tips to ensure your business remains compliant and your employees stay safe and healthy.

In this episode, we tackle:

• The legal requirements for rest and meal breaks under the Employment Relations Act.
• Real-life cases highlighting where employers went wrong and how to avoid these mistakes.
• Practical steps to implement clear break policies and clauses in your agreements.
• Understand the importance of recording breaks.
• Overview of the potential consequences of getting breaks wrong.

Don't miss this crucial episode that can help you navigate the complexities of breaks and ensure you maintain compliance in your workplace.

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Resources:

• Employment NZ - Rest and meal breaks
• Employment Relations Act - Part 6D Rest breaks and meal breaks
• ERA Case - Hong and S&C Centreplace Limited
• ERA Case - CSJ and JRL
• ERA Case - Lee and Yamaya NZ Limited

Disclaimer: The content presented in this episode is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal advice. The host does not assume any liability for actions taken based on the content of this podcast. While the host is a lawyer, they are not your lawyer and the information provided is based on general legal information. This podcast does not create a solicitor-client relationship.While we strive to keep the information accurate and up-to-date as at the date of each episode, laws and regulations may change, and the content of this podcast may not reflect the most current legal standards or interpretations. Listeners are encouraged to consult with a qualified New Zealand legal professional for advice tailored to their specific situation.