I'm working an evening cleaning job (3pm – 8pm) in a team of 3 people. The problem is that the facility is so big, we are unable to finish the entire thing in those 5 hours. Mind you, this has been a problem for over 2 years and management are only now trying to hire more staff.
In the meantime, they are asking us to work an extra 1.5 hours (finishing 9:30 pm) but we are refusing. The main reason for the refusal is that we have to work so hard and quickly in order to get things done, that at the end of those 5 hours we are physically and mentally exhausted. The company claims that they're wishing to cut down on fatigue, but then ask us to work more.
I also refused because it would mean I get home at 10 pm, by which time my wife is in bed and I don't get to see her. She works 7am – 3pm so these extra hours would mean I only see her on the weekend.
After refusing to stay late, they asked us to come in on weekends, or work 6am – 9am on top of the 3pm – 8pm. We refused this as well as no matter how you do it, it's just adding extra hours which just adds to our fatigue.
Now they're acting all pouty, like we're letting the company and facility down, but I'm simply not prepared to risk the physical and mental health of myself and my team mates.
Am I the asshole for not doing what they want, or am I being sensible and looking after myself?