In brief...: Web breaks boost staff

May 30 2008

Banning workers from using the internet for personal use could actually be hitting productivity because staff need a break to help reduce stress, according to a new report.

Astudy by computer games firm PopCap Games showed that people felt refreshed if they had an "ebreak" during the working day.

Most of those questioned said they would rather spend some free time surfing the internet to unwind rather than having a cigarette or tea break.

Taking five minutes off to make a cup of tea was accepted, but using social websites was frowned upon.

Dr Tomas Chamorro-Premuzic, of London's Goldsmiths University, said: "The report proves that a 10 minute ebreak a day can have major benefits."