Providing breaks seems straightforward — but California’s meal and rest period laws are anything but simple. Small mistakes in timing, documentation, or employee communication can quickly snowball into class-action lawsuits that threaten your business’s future.

Here are five break period violations that could break your budget:

1. Improper Break Timing
Rest breaks must occur in the middle of each work period, and meal breaks must start before the 5th hour. “Close enough” timing can trigger premium pay obligations.

2. Failing to Relieve Employees of Duties
Employees must be completely free from work during breaks. Requiring them to stay on-site, answer phones, or remain “available” violates California law.

3. Missing Break Period Waivers
Employees working 6 hours or less can waive meal periods, but only with proper written agreements. Verbal waivers or assumptions don’t provide legal protection.

4. Inadequate Break Documentation
You must track when breaks are provided, missed, or waived. Poor documentation makes it nearly impossible to defend against break period claims.

5. Ignoring Split-Shift Requirements
Employees working split shifts may be entitled to additional meal periods. Overlooking these requirements can result in significant back-pay obligations.

Ready to Break Free from Break Period Problems?
DP Human Capital Management can help you establish compliant break policies and tracking systems that protect your business from costly violations. Don’t let break time become your breaking point.

Schedule a meal and rest period compliance audit today.