--It's a federal law that you must provide meal breaks away from the work area where the worker will not be disturbed.--
Federal law does not even require meal breaks.
I'll have to get back with you on that. The labor board disagrees, but what else is new?
Huh. It's a lot of double talk but it looks like you are right. The DOL does say it isn't a break if they aren't completely relieved of duty though. I did see a transportation exception. These guys aren't technically driving or flying but I wonder if they would be under the umbrella?