Mandated Rest Breaks and Occupational Injuries and Illnesses in Dallas County, Texas Construction Workers

Abstract

Objective We estimated associations of a rest break ordinance, implemented for construction workers in Dallas, Texas in 2016, with workplace injuries and illnesses. Methods We used workers’ compensation claims data to compare changes in rates of injuries and illnesses among Dallas County, Texas construction (ie, “treated”) workers with changes in untreated workers, before (2013–2015) and after (2016–2018) a rest break ordinance was implemented. Results Immediately after the ordinance was implemented, rates of injuries/illnesses among treated workers were modestly lower than in comparison workers (rate ratio comparing postmandate vs premandate rates, treated vs comparison workers: 0.89, 95% confidence interval: 0.72–1.11). Postordinance versus preordinance slope trends were similar in the treated versus the comparison group. Conclusions Ten-minute rest breaks were associated with modestly lower rates of workplace injury/illnesses. More comprehensive standards may be needed for protection.