Stretchly is an open source program that reminds you to take a break at regular intervals

Stretchly can help, it is a timer program that reminds you when to take a break. You can install the app, or use the portable version, they're identical in terms of functionality. Stretchly runs in the background, and can be accessed from the system tray via a right-click.

What is Stretchly?
What are micro breaks?
How often should you take a micro break?
What is the legal requirement for breaks at work?
Why are micro breaks important?
Does taking breaks increase productivity?
Are Frequent short breaks better than fewer long breaks?
What should you avoid when taking a break from DSE work?
What is the longest shift you can legally work?
Am I entitled to a break if I work 5 hours?
Do I get a break on a 4 hour shift?

What is Stretchly?

What are micro breaks?

Microbreaks are short, voluntary, and impromptu respites in the work day. Microbreaks include discretionary activities such as having a snack, chatting with a colleague, stretching, or working on a crossword puzzle.

How often should you take a micro break?

The HSE suggest that short, frequent breaks are better than less frequent longer breaks, so a 5-10 minute break after 50-60 minutes is better than a 20 minute break every 3 hours.

What is the legal requirement for breaks at work?

You're usually entitled to: a 30 minute rest break if you work for more than 4 hours and 30 minutes in a day. 12 hours rest between each working day. 2 rest days per week.

Why are micro breaks important?

Microbreaks at work can increase engagement and reduce fatigue.

Does taking breaks increase productivity?

Taking breaks at work does increase productivity, even if machines and computers are idle for a few minutes. The short time away gives employees the chance to stretch tired muscles, find relief from sustained positions and postures and retain any information they might have learned in the last hour or so.

Are Frequent short breaks better than fewer long breaks?

Taking frequent short breaks is better for you than one long holiday, research has found. ... People who take so-called mini-breaks have more happy memories than those who holiday for an extended period of time, they claimed.

What should you avoid when taking a break from DSE work?

Exercise routines, such as body stretches, blinking the eyes and focusing on distant objects, can be carried out both during formal breaks and while using DSE, and could be covered in training programmes. Users should be discouraged from using DSE during breaks, eg for personal web surfing.

What is the longest shift you can legally work?

The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) states that any work over 40 hours in a 168 hour period is counted as overtime, since the average American work week is 40 hours - that's eight hours per day for five days a week.

Am I entitled to a break if I work 5 hours?

You would only have a right to take a break at a certain time if your contract of employment stated this. The law only says you have a right to a 20-minute break if you work more than 6 hours. It does not say when the break must be given. As such, your employer is allowed to ask you to take your break at this time.

Do I get a break on a 4 hour shift?

In general, you are entitled to a 15 minute break when you have worked for 4 ½ hours. If you work more than 6 hours you are entitled to a 30 minute break, which can include the first 15-minute break. There is no entitlement to be paid for these breaks and they are not considered working time.