917 - Meal Periods and Breaks

917.1 PURPOSE AND SCOPE

This policy regarding meals and breaks, insofar as possible shall conform to the policy governing all County employees that has been established by the County Administrative Officer.

917.1.1 MEAL PERIODS

Sworn employees and dispatchers shall remain on duty subject to call during meal breaks. All other employees are not on call during meal breaks unless directed otherwise by a supervisor.

Uniformed patrol and traffic deputies shall request clearance from the Communications Center prior to taking a meal period. Uniformed deputies shall take their breaks within the County limits unless on assignment outside of the County.

The time spent for the meal period shall not exceed the authorized time allowed.

917.1.2 15 MINUTE BREAKS

Each employee is entitled to a 15 minute break, near the mid point, for each four-hour work period. Only one 15 minute break shall be taken during each four hours of duty. No breaks shall be taken during the first or last hour of an employee's shift unless approved by a supervisor.

Employees normally assigned to the sheriff's facility shall remain in the sheriff's facility for their breaks. This would not prohibit them from taking a break outside the facility if on official business.

Field deputies will take their breaks in their assigned areas, subject to call and shall monitor their radios. When field deputies take their breaks away from their vehicles, they shall do so only with the knowledge and clearance of the Communications Center.

Lactation Breaks