Short rest breaks, usually lasting about 5 to 20 minutes, are considered compensable work hours and must be paid. You're only entitled to a 30 minute unpaid meal break every FIVE HOURS.This needs to change. There are no requirements for breaks, meal or rest periods for employees 18 years of age or older. Employees working more than six consecutive hours per day are entitled to an uninterrupted break of 20 minutes. Yes, it can, even though Michigan law does not require it unless you are under 18 and work more than 5 consecutive hours. The law doesn't require employers to offer rest breaks. However, those who choose to do so must compensate the workers for the rest time. Child Labor Laws, Provides information on child labor laws including work hours restrictions, prohibited work activities and breaks in the State of Michigan. The Employment Standards Act, 2000 applies to all employees whose work is to be performed in Ontario and their employers.