I work a factory job making potato products at one of the largest plants in the usa. We are on rotating 12 hour shifts. 2 day shifts and 2 night shifts. The plant used to do three 8 hour shifts. We have as many people as we did during the 8 hour shifts, but management can't seem to figure out why everyone is quiting the job stating burn out as the reason for leaving.
I work in the lab on night shift and I'm forced to pull overtime until I hit the max allowed of 60 hours. Every week it happens. I'm getting to the point in going crazy from the lack of downtime. I can't spend time with my fiance or baby, the day I get off I'm watching my child while my fiance sleeps. This feels like it should be illegal, I can tell my health is taking a hit.
The worst part about this whole thing is that everyone seems to be brainwashed into thinking that this is a good deal. “At least your paycheck is gonna be big.” Yeah except they tax it more, and it's not enough money to make it worth selling my whole freaking life to this place.
I want to quit, but between insurance and the fact that this IS one of the best paying places in town, I find it almost impossible.
If I thought I could actually get people to come together and do something like a strike I would try. But there are too many people who like the taste of boots.