Workers break entitlements 'can vary'

Date: 29th February 2008

In the latest news affecting small business owners, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) claims employees break entitlements can vary.

The HSE says the amount of time workers are entitled to for breaks can depend on age and the type of work they are engaging in.

A spokesperson said break entitlements can also be affected if a worker is behind a computer screen all day.

The source commented: "There are also requirements on breaks across a number of sectors and work activities, for example when working with display screen equipment, working in different environments and if the work is strenuous or repetitive."

According to the HSE 2.2 million people suffered work-related illnesses during the last year, resulting in the loss of 36 million working days.

Government statistics show that of the 2.2 million cases reported last year - 646,000 were new.

Rules about taking breaks at work are detailed in the government's working time directive.