Do we have to pay employees for wearing beepers?

If a non-exempt employee carries a beeper with him during his lunch hour, with the potential of having to return to the workplace in the event of an emergency, is this (a) legal? and (b) does he have to be paid for this time even when he is not beeped?

Rita Risser's response:

It is legal for non-exempt employees to be required to wear beepers 24 hours a day. You only have to pay for the time they are responding to the beeper.

Disclaimer: This information is provided with the understanding that the author and publisher are not engaged in rendering legal or other professional services. The publishers disclaim any liability, loss or risk incurred as a consequence, directly or indirectly, of the use and application of any of the contents of this information. This information is not a substitute for the advice of a competent legal or other professional person.