221 - MEAL AND REST PERIODS

Rest and meal periods are provided to employees to rest and refresh themselves. While it is essential that employees understand the importance of rest and meal periods, it is also illegal for non-exempt employees to NOT take these breaks and any staff that assists or sanctions this behavior (outside of very narrow exceptions) will be subject to disciplinary action. 

Non-Exempt Employees. Non-exempt employees are generally (although this may vary based on state law) required to take a 10-minute paid break for every four hours worked or greater portion thereof, and a 30-minute unpaid meal period for every shift of 6 hours or longer. Supervisors will advise employees of the break schedule. To the extent possible, rest/meal periods will be provided in the middle of work periods. Rest/break time is counted and paid as time worked and therefore employees must not be absent from their workstations beyond the allotted rest period time. Except in very rare situations, all non-exempt employees MUST take their lunch break. Willful failure to take their mandated rest/meal breaks may result in disciplinary action up to and including termination.

Exempt Employees. Exempt employees are generally expected to take an hour for lunch although there is no mandated lunch or break schedule required by law. 

@2021 The DPI Group. All Rights Reserved. Revision Dates: 02/10/2021 - The DPI policies do not form a contract, express or implied, nor do they guarantee employment for any specific length of time. Employment with The DPI Group or any subsidiary is at-will. This means that either the employee or employer can terminate the employment relationship at any time, for any reason. No statements made by any supervisor or manager can alter this at-will relationship. The at-will relationship can only be changed through a signed written agreement that specifically sets forth the terms between the employee and the President/Chief Executive Officer of the Company.