The Laws Surrounding Scheduling in the Workplace
Many people work in fields where their hours can be unpredictable – including shifts that may seem rather unreasonable. It is important to be aware that the laws surrounding scheduling in the workplace vary based on the type of scheduling system you are working with.
Jobs with Flexible Schedules
If your job has flexible scheduling, your employment contract may not limit the length of your gaps between shifts. Rather, it is up to your employer to decide how often you can work. With this kind of arrangement, it is possible for them to not schedule you for two weeks in a row.
Jobs with Standard Schedules
If your job is based on a standard schedule of set hours, then it is more likely that employers will need to give you time off in between shifts, rather than scheduling no shifts in certain weeks. The amount of time they are required to give you off between shifts can vary based on state or local laws.
Challenging Unfair Scheduling Practices
In many cases, employers may not be legally obligated to provide you with certain amounts of time off. However, they may still be breaking employee protection laws by implementing unfair or discriminatory scheduling practices.
What to Do If You Have Experienced Unfair Scheduling
If you have experienced unfair scheduling from your employer, there are several steps you can take:
- Consult a lawyer – An experienced labor attorney will be able to advise you on the best course of action.
- Gather evidence – Keep track of any relevant documents or information and make sure you have it on hand.
- File a complaint – Contact your local labor board or the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) to report the incident.
It is important to be aware of your rights as an employee and to take action if you feel that your employer is not respecting them. No matter what type of scheduling system is in place, employers should not be able to deny you scheduled work for two weeks at a time without reason.