It is striking to note thatone in four employees breaks the law several times a week without even knowing it. The world of work for private sector employees is governed by laws, ordinances and decrees grouped together in the Labor Code. In France, labor law is a set of legal rules that govern relations between employers and employees. Its objective, among other things, is to protect workers and guarantee their rights in terms of remuneration, working hours, leave, etc.
Strict rules regarding dining areas
For businesses with more than 50 employees, current regulations stipulate that the designated catering space must include: a refrigerator for storing food, a means of heating meals, a tap for drinking water and sufficient seating and of tables. Employees have a set time to eat their meals, as specified by the Labor Code. Once the daily working time reaches six hours, the employee is entitled to a minimum consecutive break of twenty minutes.
Prohibition on eating at your workstation
A little-known provision of the Labor Code appearing in article R4228-19 stipulates thatit is prohibited to let workers take their meals in the premises assigned to work. According to Camille Vanneau, a lawyer specializing in labor law, an employee could be subject to disciplinary sanctions if there is a dedicated space available and if their employer has informed them in advance by an internal memo or internal regulations on the ban on lunch at their workstation.
The consequences of Covid-19 on restaurant spaces
This arrangement may surprise office workers because, as Camille Vanneau explains, with the Covid-19 crisis, many companies have moved to smaller spaces and do not necessarily have dedicated catering areas. Faced with this situation, it is important for employers to put in place appropriate solutions, in particular:
- Provide employees with a dining room separate from their work space;
- Adapt break times to avoid large gatherings;
- Maintain clear communication on the rules in force and the sanctions incurred.
Some tips to avoid unintentional violations
To avoid finding yourself in an uncomfortable situation regarding the legislation, here are some recommendations for employees:
Stay vigilant and stay informed
Employment law is a complex area, and it is possible that certain aspects are unfamiliar to both employers and employees. Faced with this situation, it is essential to remain attentive and seek information about your rights and obligationsin order to avoid the inconvenience linked to involuntary infringements.
Maintaining good communication with your employer and colleagues, as well as adopting behavior that respects the rules in force, are all elements that will help create a harmonious working environment that complies with legal requirements.
2023-12-31 16:59:46
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