'Allow internet breaks', businesses urged

Banning personal internet use during the course of the day could lose UK businesses up to £4bn a year, a new report has found.

PopCap Games, who conducted the research, found employees taking a 10-minute online break during the course of the working day had lower levels of stress than those banned from personal internet use.

Almost seven in 10 businesses, including large organisations such as British Gas and Credit Suisse, ban access to social networking sites - despite the fact that almost 60% of workers shun the traditional tea break in favour of surfing the internet.

Over 70% of workers admitted to personal web use while their boss isn't looking, while almost half felt taking a five minute cigarette break during work hours is more acceptable than spending time online.

Dr Chamorro-Premuzic of Goldsmiths University, who conducted the research, said banning online breaks could have a negative impact on the economy.

"Tea breaks and fag breaks have long been the most common types of break within office culture, but the report shows e-breaks are fast becoming the most popular choice of break for British workers," he said.

"The report proves a ten minute online break a day can have significant benefits but, despite this, many bosses are banning them in the fear that they distract employees.

"By factoring in a dedicated slot for an e-break, bosses are fostering a more trusting working environment, boosting productivity and ultimately increasing their profits, which surely makes good business sense," he added.

© Crimson Business Ltd. 2008