Am I entitled to a break when the working day is more than 6 hours?

Adult workers covered by the Working Time Regulations are entitled to a break of at least 20 minutes from work during a working day of more than 6 hours. For young workers aged 16 and 17 the Regulations provide for an uninterrupted break of at least 30 minutes after working 4.5 hours.

Unfortunately the protection afforded by the Regulations is minimal, and individuals working a twelve-hour shift will still only be entitled to one 20 minute breach under this legislation. Your contract may have better terms in place.

Some workers, including seafarers, air cabin crew, drivers and mobile rail workers, are covered by different rules.