EmploymentQuestion 986 of 1605
In addition to standard rest breaks, outdoor construction workers may be entitled to 'cool-down recovery periods.' How are these recovery periods compensated?
a.As paid time; recovery periods to prevent heat illness are counted as hours worked
b.Only if the temperature exceeds 105 degrees
c.As a deduction from the lunch period
d.As unpaid breaks the worker must make up
Explanation
California requires paid 'cool-down recovery periods' in the shade for outdoor workers to prevent heat illness, and like rest periods, this time is counted as hours worked and must be paid. Denying a needed recovery period can trigger a premium comparable to the §226.7 rest-period premium. These recovery periods are separate from, and additional to, regular rest and meal breaks.
Law Reference: Labor Code §226.7; heat and recovery periodsPractice all 1605 questions free — no signup required.
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Reviewed by Abraham Chen — Licensed California General Contractor (CSLB License #1101856 — verify)