Coworker getting night differential pay for an early shift... is that fair?

Law Discussions
1

So, I have a coworker who’s scheduled for an 8-4:30 shift but she starts at 6:30am and leaves by 3pm. Because she’s clocking in early, she’s getting paid a bit of night shift differential, even though she works mostly during the day. We’re in a union job, and she’s close to our manager. I’m wondering if any rules are being bent here. Anyone else seen something like this?

2

Sounds like something to check in your union contract. Sometimes shift differentials have strict rules.

3

Hadi said:
Sounds like something to check in your union contract. Sometimes shift differentials have strict rules.

Agreed! In my last job, they didn’t allow any differential if most of the hours were during the day.

4

@Stevie
Makes sense. I’ll review our contract to see if there’s anything about this.

5

If it’s just favoritism and not discrimination based on protected characteristics, it might not technically be illegal.

6

Grayson said:
If it’s just favoritism and not discrimination based on protected characteristics, it might not technically be illegal.

Yeah, unless it’s based on age, race, gender, etc., favoritism alone is hard to challenge legally.

7

@Vern
Exactly. Frustrating but common, unfortunately.

8

Might be worth talking to your union rep or HR. They might know if this setup is allowed.

9

Raleigh said:
Might be worth talking to your union rep or HR. They might know if this setup is allowed.

Good idea, I’ll check in with them and see if this situation is on the up-and-up.

10

This might just be the manager bending the rules a bit for a friend. Happens all the time in workplaces.

11

Vail said:
This might just be the manager bending the rules a bit for a friend. Happens all the time in workplaces.

Yep, seen it myself. If it doesn’t directly affect you, it might not be worth the hassle.

12

I know the feeling—it can be really frustrating when it feels like someone’s getting special treatment. Maybe document it just in case?

13

Noor said:
I know the feeling—it can be really frustrating when it feels like someone’s getting special treatment. Maybe document it just in case?

True, I might keep notes if anything else comes up. Thanks for the advice, everyone!