On call: Overview, definition, and example
What is "on call"?
"On call" refers to a situation in which an individual, typically an employee, is required to be available to work outside of their regular working hours if the need arises. This can include emergency situations, unplanned tasks, or support requirements that may occur after normal working hours. Being "on call" means that the individual may be contacted at any time and must be ready to respond or show up for work as needed. Depending on the nature of the work, employees who are on call may receive additional compensation or benefits.
For example, a healthcare worker may be "on call" during off-hours to respond to patient emergencies, while an IT technician may be on call to address system outages outside of regular office hours.
Why is "on call" important?
Being "on call" is important because it ensures that businesses or organizations can maintain continuous operations and respond to emergencies or urgent needs even outside of regular business hours. It is particularly critical in industries that require 24/7 support, such as healthcare, IT, utilities, and emergency services. For employers, having employees on call ensures that they can respond promptly to critical issues, maintaining service and reducing downtime.
For employees, understanding the expectations and compensation associated with being on call helps ensure fairness and clarity. On-call arrangements can provide flexibility in scheduling but may also require additional commitment and availability.
Understanding "on call" through an example
Imagine a hospital employs a team of doctors who are on call overnight. If a patient arrives with a medical emergency during the night, one of the on-call doctors must be available to provide care. The doctor is compensated for being on call, and if they are required to come in to assist with the emergency, they receive additional pay for the time worked.
In another example, a software company has an IT specialist who is "on call" to address any system outages that occur after regular working hours. The IT specialist is available by phone or email to troubleshoot and resolve the issue, ensuring that the company’s network runs smoothly even outside of business hours.
Example of an "on call" clause
Here’s how an "on call" clause might appear in a contract:
"The Employee agrees to be on call during the following hours: [specify hours or days]. While on call, the Employee will be available to respond to emergency or urgent situations as required by the Employer. The Employee will receive additional compensation for on-call duties, as outlined in this Agreement. If the Employee is required to work while on call, they will be compensated at the agreed-upon overtime rate."
Conclusion
Being "on call" ensures that businesses can continue to operate smoothly, even during non-business hours, by having employees ready to address urgent needs. Clear communication and fair compensation for on-call work are essential for maintaining a balance between employee availability and organizational needs.
This article contains general legal information and does not contain legal advice. Cobrief is not a law firm or a substitute for an attorney or law firm. The law is complex and changes often. For legal advice, please ask a lawyer.