Is downtime at work considered a break?

Answer 1

The answer to this question depends largely on the the state in which one lives. Some states do not require employers to provide breaks to employees, and therefore, it is up to the employer to dictate the terms of employee breaks. Some states require employers to provide breaks to employees doing certain types of work or working in certain industries, but not others. Some states require employer to provide breaks unless the employee has sufficient "downtime." Lastly, some state require all employers to provide employees with breaks, regardless of how busy they are while working. Identifying the state in which the employee works would permit a more complete and accurate answer.