Introduction

In a shocking revelation, a Singaporean retail employee has sparked an outcry on the r/askSingapore subreddit after unveiling a controversial policy enforced by his supervisor that prohibits staff from eating outside during break times. Instead, employees are only permitted to order takeaway food, which they must consume within the confines of the store's pantry.

Employee Frustrations

The employee shared his frustrations, labeling the rule as 'ridiculous' and emphasizing that break times are essential opportunities for workers to disconnect and recharge. He expressed his disappointment with the company's restrictive measures, which leave him feeling as though he is never truly off-duty.

'Is this even normal?' he questioned in his post. 'I can’t get a real break. The manager even calls me back during break times if the store becomes busy due to understaffing.' His past roles in retail and packing never included such limitations, as he was always allowed to step outside during breaks.

Job Demands

But it's not just the eating policy that has him on edge; he also described the job as overwhelmingly demanding, noting that despite being only three days into his stint, the pressure has made him feel as if he's been working for months. He revealed he is managing stressful hours for a modest pay of S$2,000, where he is also held accountable for any losses that might occur due to missing stock.

'This job is incredibly taxing for such a low salary, and if anything goes missing, we all have to bear the consequences,' he lamented. After accounting for his break time, he realized he was effectively working about 10 hours a day.

Future Intentions

As a result, he conveyed his intent to leave the job once he secures a better opportunity. 'This is just stupid. Eating in the store pantry does not constitute a proper break—it’s worse than the army,' he concluded.

Online Reactions

Comments on the thread echoed the sentiments of the frustrated retail worker. One user admitted to craving time outside of the pantry for personal space, while another emphatically advised him to assert himself to his boss, stating, 'Retail always has a shortage of people. They need you more than you need them.'

Some users speculated that the eat-in-only rule might relate to the company’s image management. Others were equally baffled, expressing disbelief at how such a policy could even exist in a modern workplace.

Legal Context

Separately, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) in Singapore outlines that employees who work longer than six hours are entitled to breaks, with those on eight-hour shifts needing at least a 45-minute meal break. However, the guidelines don't specify where employees are allowed to take their breaks, leaving room for varied interpretations and internal rules at different companies.

Conclusion

As the discussion continues to unfold online, this incident raises larger questions about workplace policies and employee rights, urging individuals and organizations alike to reevaluate what constitutes a reasonable working environment.