Final answer:
When working more than seven hours, it is advised to take a short break every two hours to maintain productivity and effectiveness. The specific number of breaks for such a shift can vary based on local labor laws and company policies.
Step-by-step explanation:
When working in excess of seven hours, the number of breaks you may take can vary based on the employer's policies and the labor laws of the country or state. In general, it is recommended to schedule brief breaks every two hours to increase productivity and effectiveness.
Historical context shows that work hours and break times have evolved significantly. In the 19th century, workers had much longer workdays with few breaks, but over time, labor laws and reforms have established more humane working conditions. According to modern standards, such as those from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, typical full-time workers in the U.S. work about 42.5 hours per week, which hints at an eight-hour workday standard with breaks included.
Although break times can depend on the length of the shift and local labor regulations, a common guideline suggests taking a ten-minute break every two hours. For shifts longer than seven hours, this might translate into at least three short breaks during the day, but specific break entitlements should be checked against local labor laws and company policies.