Facebook's Extreme Employee Monitoring Sparks Outrage: Logging Bathroom Breaks

A recent social media post has ignited a heated debate about Facebook's stringent work monitoring practices, especially concerning employee bathroom breaks. The post, which has gained significant traction, presents a screenshot of a news headline from Vice detailing how Facebook is forcing its moderators to log every second of their day, including restroom visits.

The headline reads: "Facebook Is Forcing Its Moderators to Log Every Second of Their Days — Even in the Bathroom: 'People have to clock in and clock out even when going to the toilet and explain the reason why they were delayed, which is embarrassing and humiliating.'" This post surfaced 12 hours ago, credited to "u/maxwellhill."

Accompanying the headline is a photo of a pristine white toilet, the lid up, set against a light-colored wall. To its right, a toilet paper holder is mounted, holding a roll of toilet paper.

The narrative continues with a compelling comment from user "DendroNate," posted nine hours ago, which has since garnered 6.0k upvotes. DendroNate recounts a similar experience at a previous job: "Used to work for a company who did this. The staff rebelled by taking it way overboard and clocking out for every tiny thing. Stuff like 'Dropped pen. Picking it up.' Or 'Couldn't find glasses. Realized they were on my head.' Once the management realized that they had to wade through all this tedious c*** and didn't have time to do much else, they soon swept the whole idea under the rug."

The post has sparked a variety of reactions from other users. One user remarked, "Facebook has AI to wade through it now," while another humorously detailed their hypothetical bathroom log: "Scratched right ball for 2.37 seconds. Typed two words. Scratched left ball for 6.12 seconds. Ripped WICKED 13.00 second fart." Such comments reflect the community's general disdain and mockery towards these invasive practices.

Another user shared a personal anecdote: "Once had a co-worker who timed my bathroom breaks. I called him a c*** and he reported me to HR. I explained to HR that I have IBS and hemorrhoids. When HR dropped it, I reported him for harassment. Dude quit a week later."

The discussions surrounding this post highlight broader concerns about employee privacy and the extent to which companies can monitor their staff. One comment pointed out the potential legal implications: "Mmh yeah this is a violation of labor code and the allowed amount of time for breaks in 4 and 8 hour shifts. I'd cite it but it's in there. Also depending on state it could be even more."

As the conversation grows, it becomes evident that many believe such practices are not only intrusive but also counterproductive. A supervisor shared their approach to managing bathroom breaks, emphasizing respect and understanding: "People work better when they are respected, hydrated, and not struggling with a full bladder."

This post, with its blend of humor, frustration, and genuine concern, underscores a significant issue in modern workplace environments. The backlash against Facebook's monitoring practices serves as a stark reminder of the importance of employee dignity and the need for balanced, humane work policies.