Following workplace policies is important for staying employed, but one worker faced a dilemma at their new job: they weren’t allowed to call 911. Reddit user Old-Energy-3500 explained in their r/antiwork post that they’ve been unemployed for years but finally got hired at a grocery store. However, during their training, the instructor said calling 911 is off-limits unless they’re being robbed.
“We have to talk to our manager first,” Old-Energy said. As to what employees are to do in the case of an active shooter, the trainer allegedly went, “Well you should be hiding you shouldn’t be calling anyone because you have to be quiet.” Old-Energy was in disbelief, saying they can’t imagine not calling 911 during a medical emergency like a heart attack.
OP Says They’re Willing to Give Up Their Job to Call 911
“I don’t care if I get fired, I would rather try to save someone’s life than to not call 911 in case of emergency!!” OP exclaimed. It goes without saying that plenty of other Redditors agreed; if someone needs emergency help, calling 911 is a no-brainer. “If you try to call 911 and they try to interfere, I believe that’s a felony under US law,” remarked a user.
“And if they threaten your job over it, that’s a lawsuit waiting to happen in most states,” added another commenter. “Call 911 if there’s a reason no matter what that trainer says,” suggested a third. Others chimed in, saying that Old-Energy should just pretend to agree to whatever the trainer says, but do the ‘right thing’ if the time comes.
Several people criticized the trainer of following the book way too closely. “Get them to put their emergency policy in writing. If it’s actually this, then it’s most likely a health and safety violation,” recommended one user. While plenty of commenters have valid arguments regarding the legalities and ethics of calling 911, OP has not shared specifics, such as what company they work for or what state they reside in.
Whatever, Old-Energy seems keen on calling 911 if the need arises, though it might come at the cost of their long-awaited employment.
