The Surprising Reason Why You NEED a Breakroom

Robby

I spent a lot of time visiting offices in Central Indiana. These especially include small businesses in the and around Indianapolis. Many have an employee break area, but some don’t. But you absolutely, must have a breakroom, and probably not for the reason you think.

First, I’ll give away the rationale you might be thinking of. You need a place to hang those labor law posters that describe things like JOB SAFETY AND HEALTH PROTECTION and EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY. Companies have to hang these up in a “conspicuous place available to all employees and applicants for employment.”

© Flickr User wolfrage

Right, so that’s probably obvious if you think about it. But there’s one more reason.

Zoning.

You know that word. It’s what cities and counties do to divide up land so that it can be used for a particular purpose. Maybe zones are reserved for residential buildings, commercial buildings, or industrial buildings.

Why do we need zones at work? To clearly specify where work is and is not done.

The break room is a no-work zone. It’s a place to go and have a snack, socialize with your colleagues, watch a little TV, and otherwise take a break.

If you don’t have a breakroom, people will relax at their desks. They will congregate and interrupt each other.

Therefore, a breakroom increases productivity. Make sure you have one.