Imagine yourself in the middle of a day working remotely. You've been staring at your screen for hours, emails are piling up, and video conference meetings are coming thick and fast. Suddenly, you realize you haven't taken a break since morning. This scenario is unfortunately common for many remote workers.
Yet, breaks while working from home are essential for maintaining your well-being and productivity. Whether you're an employer or an employee, it's crucial to understand the rules regarding break time while working from home. This article guides you through the regulations and provides tips for optimizing your breaks while working from home.
Teleworking break time : what does the law say?
What is the minimum length of a teleworking break?
According to the Labor Code, as soon as you have worked 6 consecutive hours, you are entitled to a break of at least 20 minutes.
👀 Good to know :
- A collective agreement or company agreement may provide for longer breaks.
- Break time is not always paid, unless you remain at your employer's disposal.
Employer obligations regarding teleworking breaks
Even remotely, your employer must guarantee that teleworking break times are respected and ensure that you can benefit from real recovery time.
Legally, he must:
- Make sure you take your breaks as you would in person.
- Preventing the risks of work overload when teleworking.
- Facilitate the right to disconnect.
Please note: If an employee suffers from exhaustion due to not respecting their teleworking break times, the company may be held liable ( CFDT ).
Why are teleworking breaks essential?
Breaks and mental well-being: a winning duo
Contrary to popular belief, working without interruption is not synonymous with efficiency. Not taking breaks can lead to:
❌ Cognitive fatigue and loss of concentration.
❌ Increased stress and risk of burnout.
❌ Social isolation and lack of motivation.
Taking breaks while working remotely allows you to recharge your batteries, maintain your mental health , and improve your productivity throughout the day.
The risks of not respecting teleworking break times
A study reveals that 38% of teleworkers shorten their breaks to the detriment of their well-being (Crédoc).
The consequences:
- Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs).
- Decreased concentration and creativity.
- Difficulty disconnecting after work.
A well-taken break is an investment in your energy and motivation.
How to take a break while teleworking?
Structure your teleworking break times
Example of organization:
✔️ Short break (5 min every hour): stretch, breathe, walk.
✔️ Lunch break (at least 45 min): without screens, with a balanced meal.
✔️ Long break (15-20 min in the afternoon): reading, meditation, relaxing activity.
What to do during your breaks to really rest?
💪 Move: Stretch, walk for a few minutes, do yoga.
📵 Avoid screens: Rest your eyes, don't check your emails!
🌳 Get some fresh air: Go outside for a few minutes to oxygenate your brain.
🎧 Listen to music or a podcast: This helps you relax and refocus.
💡Zenho Tip: Setting up a dedicated workspace helps you better structure your days and prevent breaks from turning into a waste of time.
How can you successfully disconnect after a day of teleworking?
One of the biggest challenges of working remotely is establishing a clear boundary between work and personal life . Here's how to avoid diving back into your emails in the evening!
Mark the end of your day
✅ Set a clear end time and stick to it.
✅ Perform a transition ritual: put away your equipment, close your computer.
✅ Change your space: move from the office to the living room to mentally disconnect from work.
Create a post-work routine
- Go for a walk: As if you were walking home from the office.
- Do an activity: Sport, cooking, reading… Something that marks a break.
- Use an office for teleworking : Close it after work to avoid the temptation to continue working.
The more you ritualize the end of your day, the easier it will be to disconnect!
