can an employer force you to work overnight?
Asked by Heythere
I work and a retail store. I have worked there for 5 years and my availability is open,,but I am part-time. they just recently scheduled me from 9pm-6am. This is the first time they have done this, and when I gave them my availability it was based on the normal hours of operation. Can they just suddenly change the hours of operation without notice and then schedule me for it? The contract states that we are required to be available for 2 weekdays and 1 weekend.

Best Answer:
Yes they can schedule you for what ever hours they need you. If I were you though, I'd use my seniority to get out of working overnight. If you agree to do it now, they'll always expect you to work crazy hours. It could've been a typing error. Maybe your boss meant to put 9am-6pm. I'd also ask my boss if there's any reason he/she decided to put me on the overnight shift when I've never worked that shift before.

Yes, they can. If you have a problem with it, you can talk to the manager about it and explain why you can't work those hours. But they can schedule you for any time they wish.
Answered by Starlight

Unfortunately they have the right to do this. Maybe this is temporary though, due to the upcoming holiday season. If you have a conflict, I would suggest that you speak with your manager or supervisor. Perhaps, they will be understanding....
Answered by Connie

did u get a contract when u started work, outlining the terms of your employment? If it says nothing in your contract about night work, then i don't think they can just change it like that. Are they paying you extra? What country are you in?..employment law is different everywhere
Answered by ash1

Of course. You can't expect to work certain shifts like day shifts, no night or weekends at any retail store. When they hired you, on your application, it says open, that includes any shift that they expect you to work at. If you are having difficulty working at these shifts, talk to the manager. If he/she isn't willing change your schedule, just try it until something better comes along.
Answered by kit