A work stoppage is a situation in which employees stop working in order to protest or demand better working conditions. It can take the form of a BREAK, STRIKE, SHUTDOWN, or coffeebreak. A BREAK is a short period of time when workers are allowed to rest or take a BREAK from their duties. A STRIKE is when workers refuse to work until their demands are met. A SHUTDOWN is when a business or organization ceases operations for a period of time. A coffeebreak is when workers take a BREAK from their work to enjoy a cup of coffee.