Q&A: Worker wants sick days off public calendar

September 26, 2012

Q&A: Worker wants sick days off public calendar

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By Marie G. McIntyre / McClatchy-Tribune News Service

Q: Whenever someone takes sick leave, that information is publicly posted in our online calendar. Everyone in the company has access to this program. Even though I’m not sick very often, I really don’t think it’s anyone else’s business. Is this a violation of my legal rights?

A: Not being an attorney, I can’t comment on the legality of this practice. But from a communication standpoint, it’s the fact of an absence that matters, not the cause.

Share your concerns about privacy with your boss or human resources manager, then ask if the posting could be changed to simply show “personal time” when someone takes vacation or sick leave. This is an easy fix that should not inconvenience anyone, so your request might very well be granted.

Q: My boss frequently expects me to put in very long hours. How many hours per day can he force me to work?

A: The answer depends on the type of position you hold. If you are in a non-exempt job covered by federal wage laws, you generally can’t be asked to work more than eight hours a day without overtime pay. If you have a union contract, then your hours and compensation will be defined by that agreement.

On the other hand, if you hold a typical salaried position, which is exempt from federal guidelines, there is no legal limit on your work hours. Salaried employees are normally expected to produce desired results no matter how long it takes.

Of course, as a person with free will, you can’t technically be “forced” to work any extra time. But if you refuse, you run the risk that your boss won’t keep you on the payroll.

Submit questions to Marie G. McIntyre at yourofficecoach.com.