As an employee in Pennsylvania, you have the right to take breaks and meal periods under certain circumstances. Pennsylvania state law does not require employers to provide meal periods or rest breaks to employees over the age of 18. However, if an employer chooses to provide such breaks, they must comply with certain regulations.
Rest breaks:
Employers are required to provide minors (under the age of 18) with a 30-minute break for every five hours worked. Employers are not required to provide adult employees with rest breaks.
Meal periods:
Employers are not required by law to provide meal periods to employees. However, if an employer chooses to provide meal periods, they must ensure that the employee is completely relieved from all work duties and that the meal period lasts at least 30 minutes. If an employee is not completely relieved from work duties during their meal period, the employer must pay the employee for that time.
If an employer does not comply with these regulations, employees may file a complaint with the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry or file a lawsuit against the employer for violation of state law.
If you believe that your employer is not providing you with the required breaks or meal periods, you should speak with your employer or supervisor first to try and resolve the issue. If this is not effective, you may want to consult with an employment attorney or file a complaint with the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry.
By