Legal assistance with employment law

Questioner

Good day, I have been working in a flower shop for 20 years, 36 hours a week spread over 4 days. In consultation with my employer, I worked through my breaks. Since January 1, 2016, the shop has been taken over and I have worked like this for 2 years, last January the employer suddenly came up with the idea that we have to take a break of half an hour every day, which means that I now have to work 1 extra day every month. I think it is a waste of my time, because I am doing nothing for half an hour while I would rather continue working and not have to work extra that day. Can he just do this?

Lawyer

Taking a break during work is mandatory. In two cases an employee may work without taking a break: - employee works alone and has no direct contact with a colleague who does similar work. - Due to the nature of the work, it is impossible to take a break. This must be stated in the collective labor agreement or company regulations. Or the employer must have made written agreements about this with the works council or staff representation. In your case, it is logical that your employer requires you to take a break. Otherwise, the employer is relying on something that is not legally allowed. For more information or questions, you can always contact us without obligation.