Non-Factory Workers are entitled to a 30-minute lunch break between a.m. and. Must an employer give meal periods and "breaks" to workers?Employees who: Work a shift of more than six hours starting before 11 AM. AND. Rest breaks are not required, but all breaks 20 minutes or less must be compensated as hours worked. Industry-Specific Scheduling Requirements. Employee meal breaks are required to be at least 30 minutes if an employee works six hours anywhere throughout New York state. This pamphlet is intended to provide Employers and Employees with general information about their employment rights and responsibilities in New York State. Rest breaks usually last about five to 20 minutes. Again, include rest breaks in the total time an employee works if you offer them to employees. If you work over 10 hours, you are entitled to a third rest break.