Workers take fewer breaks to avoid ‘slacking’ risk

WORKERS are taking fewer tea breaks, often fearing their bosses will think they are slacking, according to new research.

Workers are taking fewer tea breaks to avoid accusations of 'slacking'. Picture: PA

A survey of 2,000 workers found that almost half were too busy to stop for a cuppa, while one four believed they were not allowed to have a break.

One in five said they take fewer tea breaks in a typical day than five years ago.

The study by tea maker Tetley also revealed that two out of five bosses never make a round of hot drinks for their staff.

Men are more likely to secretly make themselves a brew to avoid having to make a round for their colleagues, the study found, while other sneaky tactics include offering a tea round when you know everyone else has just had one.

The average office worker drinks at least four cuppas a day, according to the research, with advertising staff drinking the most tea, while people doing administration roles have the fewest.

Psychologist Honey Langcaster-James commented: “Fewer tea breaks reflect the increasing pressure people feel they are under at work. Whereas in the past taking a tea break was seen as a valuable social activity in the office, it is now beginning to be seen as an unnecessary indulgence and waste of productive work time.

“Yet research has indicated time and time again that striking a balance by taking short breaks during the working day increases people’s productivity and creativity.”