Temperature laws and getting fired?

Question

I'm 17 years old and was just fired from my after school job because I called one of the regional managers saying that I didn't feel well due to the 105 degree heat inside the store and I wanted to go home and he should find someone else to cover the rest of my shift.

Is this legal? Fair? (even though legal and fair don't ALWAYS coincide.)

Thanks,
Mike

hensleyclaw · Accepted Answer

well it is legal.  your employment was "at will".  Therefore if you did not like the conditions, you could have quit.  If you did not like the conditions, they could fire you.  

Now is it fair?  No but as you said legal and fair are not always the same.

whitefangz1 · Answer

I hate heat. I mean, I really, really hate heat. As such, I wish all employers were required to provide an air-conditioned working environment. Unfortunately, that's not the case in most states. Instead, the working temperature is handled under a general OSHA clause that merely states that the employer has to keep the workplace free from any conditions that pose a serious health hazard. Unless people are dropping to the ground from heat stroke, there isn't much you can do. They can require you to work in 105 degree heat assuming you are provided with your legal break periods and access to water. If you refuse to work, it is an unauthorized absence and you can be terminated for it.

wizjp · Answer

Probably legal; not fair; but the heat is the same for everyone.

Anonymous · Answer

sorry dude, it's legal.  if you can't perform the job description you agreed to when you were hired, they can fire you.

Temperature laws and getting fired?

4 Answers