There are numerous wage issues that can affect workers in the construction industry. The dynamic and demanding nature of the field often leads to issues that may go unnoticed by workers, who might not realize that their rights have been violated. Workers often contend with off-the-clock work, unpaid overtime, misclassification, prevailing wage violations, and inadequate training pay. On top of that, workers may fear retaliation from their employer if they speak up about their wage issues. It is important that workers understand their rights so they are not deprived of wages they are entitled to.
Off-the-clock work
One of the most common issues relates to off-the-clock work. Workers may be expected to perform tasks related to their job even though they are off-the-clock, generally before or after a shift. For example, a worker may be expected to help prepare a job site before they clock in for the day - or clean up after they have clocked out. They may be required to attend safety training or fill out paperwork at the end of the day. These are all job duties that workers are entitled to be compensated for.
Overtime
Unrecorded overtime and inaccurate time tracking are major issues faced by construction industry workers. With tight deadlines on projects, overtime is a near-certainty in the construction field. Workers may assume their employers are accurately tracking these hours and compensating them accordingly. Unfortunately, this is not always the situation. Mistakes, negligence, or willful violation of the law by an employer can result in workers failing to receive their proper overtime hours and wages. Workers should track the number of overtime hours worked and make sure it matches their pay.
Misclassification
Employers may try to classify an eligible employee as an independent contractor, which is illegal. Misclassification can result in workers being deprived of crucial employment benefits and protections. Employees are subject to specific legal protections, such as minimum wage laws, overtime pay, and workers' compensation. Workers who believe they have been misclassified as independent contractors should take steps to address the issue. Seeking legal advice from an employment attorney is essential – they can assess the employment relationship, determine if misclassification has occurred, and guide workers through the process of seeking fair compensation and benefits.
Awareness and legal remedies
Workers in the construction industry should strive to be aware of their rights and to recognize when violations are occurring. While labor laws may seem complicated, workers can advocate for and protect themselves by being aware of some key wage issues they may encounter. If you work in the construction industry and have been denied wages, it could be time to consult with a law firm that has a track record of handling wage claims.
Contact the Law Office of Ruth Ann Azeredo today!