Mindestpausen

Mindestpausen refers to the legally required breaks within work time or between work periods, intended to prevent fatigue and protect health and safety of workers. The concept is applied in many countries through national labor laws and sector-specific regulations, and is often reinforced by collective agreements.

In Germany, the primary framework is the Arbeitszeitgesetz (ArbZG). When daily working time exceeds six hours, a pause of at least 30 minutes must be taken. If the working time exceeds nine hours, the total break time must be at least 45 minutes. Breaks may be taken as one continuous interval or split into two periods of at least 15 minutes each. In addition, there is a requirement for a minimum rest period between work shifts: at least 11 hours must elapse before the next work period begins, with some sector-specific exceptions.

In the transport and logistics sector, as well as in other regulated industries, minimum breaks are often governed by additional rules, including those derived from EU regulations for drivers. For example, EU rules commonly require a 45-minute break after a maximum driving time of 4.5 hours, with further rest requirements for daily and weekly rest periods. These rules aim to reduce fatigue and improve safety for operators and the public.

Implementation rests with employers, who must schedule breaks and ensure compliance, and with employees, who are expected to take the mandated pauses. Breaks are frequently treated as non-working time for payroll purposes, though practices may vary by company or contract. Violations can lead to penalties or labor-law actions.