Every worker has the right to work in a safe environment. This means safe working practices and hours of work.

Union members at Strathearn Village and Strathearn House have raised concerns about staff working excessive double shifts and regular occurrences of staff who are receiving multiple requests every weekend to work extra shifts.

An employer can ask staff for additional hours if it the request is reasonable, but workers can say no to unreasonable additional hours, and it is unacceptable for staff to feel they are working to the point of exhaustion.

You have the right to decline excessive shifts. You should not be ‘guilt tripped’ to accept extra shifts. If there are holes in the roster, this should be addressed by management in a safe manner. Your employer is legally responsible for your welfare during work hours. You have rights and union members standing together enforce those rights.

If you feel you have been coerced into working excessive hours or shifts, please contact your organiser Karen Wiles on 0408 164 519 or [E-Mail not displayed] or the HSU Industrial Support Team on 1300 478 679.

Do you know someone who isn’t a member of the HSU? Send them this email. Being a member of the HSU means there’s always someone by your side fighting for your rights. New members can join online at www.hsu.asn.au/join or call 1300 HSU NSW to join over the phone.