"Having to work overtime without a day off", 31 March 2024

EASTAR Garment factory workers have requested a solution to the fact that they have to work overtime every day as well as overtime on the weekend without a rest period.

The...factory...is working with more than 1,000 workers and is committing workplace violations, the workers said.

They are sewing brands such as OVS, HK WORKS LONDON, HOUSE, CALLIOPE, and there is no trade union in the workplace, no workplace negotiation committee has been set up, and there is no resolution of workplace disputes.

"...Lately, we have had to work overtime for 8 hours straight at night. We only have a short break at lunchtime. We are not allowed to take a break in the evening, we are not even allowed to eat snack..." the worker continued.

The worker said that he is forced to work overtime every day until 8:00 p.m., and on Sundays, which is a weekend, without taking a break.

He said that they are asking for [higher targets] in the workplace than the workers can sew...

[Workers' demands to the factory:]

1. To request workers' consent if overtime is called. To allow those who cannot get off for various reasons.
2. If you have to go down until 8:00 pm, the factory will arrange the night meal...
3. If you ask for leave, give it easily if you have a valid reason.
4. To keep the restrooms clean.
5. To prevent discrimination [towards] workers by higher officials.
6. "Having to work overtime without a day offl...issues such as asking for [higher targets than what] workers can sew.."

[Translation via Google Translate]