Message to Health Care Workers on Modified Work Weeks

Good afternoon,

We are in the midst of an unprecedented health care event that is affecting all Nova Scotians, and in particular, our members who work in the health care sector.

Some members working in health care currently have a Modified Work Week (also referred to as an Earned Day Off or Modified Day): this means they typically work an extra 45 minutes per day for nine days and get the tenth day off, or they work an extra half hour per day for 14 days and get the 15th day off. These Modified Work Weeks are covered in our collective agreements under the Hours of Work articles.

However, employers can require a return to regular hours of work if operational requirements demand it. Our members who work in Continuing Care are now being asked to suspend their Modified Work Weeks during the pandemic, which will mean a return to regular hours of work for now. We understand that Public Health also recently asked for volunteers to suspend Modified Work Week schedules.

In light of the COVID-19 crisis, we would like to encourage all members who are asked by their employer to suspend their Modified Work Week schedule to do so, provided your employer advises that you will be able to re-start on your modified schedule when the crisis is over. Furthermore, if you continue to work the extra time but do not take your Earned Day Off, then union’s position is that you should be able to bank this time to be taken later at a mutually agreeable date.

We appreciate your professionalism and dedication to the care of your fellow citizens during this difficult time. If you have questions or concerns about this particular issue, please contact us by calling 902-424-4063 (toll-free 1-877-556-7438) or emailing inquiry@nsgeu.ca.