You don't have to be awake to receive NMW

Sydney Mitchell LLP

Many people might think those who sleep on the job would not be entitled to be paid the National Minimum Wage (NMW) whilst their eyes are closed, but that is by no means always the case.

The Employment Appeal Tribunal (EAT) has given guidance on the issue in an important test case, particularly for the care sector.

The EAT was dealing with three appeals from Employment Tribunals concerning employees – two of them care workers – whose presence was required at night in order to respond to emergencies or otherwise perform their duties.

The cases raised a common issue as to whether they were entitled to receive the NMW for the entirety of their shifts or only for those periods when they were awake.

In ruling on the matters, the EAT noted that a failure to pay the NMW when required can lead to penalties, and potentially criminal sanctions, against employers... 

For further advice please contact Jade Linton on 0121 746 3300, email j.linton@sydneymitchell.co.uk