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Pharmacists and pharmacy technicians know how critical it is to be alert and focused while providing safe and effective pharmacy care to their patients. Taking a break helps ensure that you stay sharp throughout the day and continue to provide quality care. A break isn’t just a good idea - it’s an employee’s right under the law.
The College has been made aware that breaks are not always honoured. This information, and the additional data compiled from the BC Pharmacist Working Conditions Survey released last fall, is essential for the College to know. We thank all those who participated in the survey.
Breaks are defined as at least 30 minutes every 5 hours in the Employment Standards Act. Pharmacists and Pharmacy Technicians that are employed but not members of a union are covered by this Act. Unionized pharmacists and pharmacy technicians will have similar language in their collective agreement that ensures breaks are provided.
Remember: taking a break keeps you alert and helps keep your patients safe. It’s in the public interest.
For more information on employment standards, visit the Ministry of Jobs, Tourism and Labour Skills website at http://www.labour.gov.bc.ca/esb/facshts/hours_of_work_and_overtime.htm.
- Pharmacy Matters
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