It has been more than 6 weeks since the start of the Treasury Board’s change in the Direction on Prescribed Presence in the Workplace. The added time spent on commuting to-and-from work has, once again, placed the spotlight on the unrealistic expectations that the Employer imposes on public safety employees. We know that when USJE members have been given more flexibility to work from home, they often work well beyond their 7.5 or 8-hour workday. They are more efficient and productive. In fact, without the stress and burden of commuting to an empty and uncomfortable office, many reported working simply until the job was done.
The USJE has been vocal in telling departments that our members are over-tasked and exhausted. Management’s response – employees are expected to complete each task or face “the potential for disciplinary measures”.
What should you do?
As an employee, you are expected to perform the duties and responsibilities outlined in your work description. As a human being, you cannot be expected to do it all, all the time.
- Ask your employer to set your priorities: As your responsibilities continue to grow, we urge you to make a list of your daily tasks/duties and the time it takes to complete each. Share this list with your manager/supervisor and ask that they prioritize what should be done first, understanding that not everything will be completed.
While it may seem uncomfortable at first, these types of exchanges with the employer do not need to be adversarial. In fact, it should be common practice for management to set and communicate realistic expectations to its employees. - Keep records: Your manager should be communicating, in writing, the prioritization of your duties/tasks. If they fail to do so, keep your own records of those discussions.
- Work your expected hours and not a minute more!: Depending on your collective agreement, you may be contractually required to work 7.5 or 8 hours per workday. We know that many work more than that simply to get the job done. However, there is no incentive for an employer to change its unrealistic expectations if the work continues to be completed. Limit the time that you give to your employer to the time for which you are compensated.
- Be mindful of your mental health: We know that, at times, taking leave seems to perpetuate the vicious workload circle because the Employer does not backfill your position while you are away. Often, this means that members are penalized for taking leave because they return to an even greater caseload.
Do not continue to pay the price for the Employer’s poor operational practices. Members are reminded of the different leave options that have been carefully negotiated into your respective collective agreements. Take the time that is needed to disconnect and recharge. If your work backlog is even greater when you return, refer to #1 above and continue to engage in the prioritization exercise with your manager/supervisor.
While a lot of the above may seem obvious to some, others are in desperate need of a reminder. We know that USJE members are dedicated employees who are committed to public safety. We also know that when incidents or shortfalls occur in the workplace, our members are often the ones who pay the price. Be mindful of how much of yourself you are sacrificing for an employer who, at times, forgets and needs to be reminded of your value.
The USJE is here for you. Should you run into any problems or concerns with implementing any of the above, please communicate with your Local USJE union representatives.