Apple Accused Of Restricting Employee Use Of Slack And Social Media, Facing Claims From NLRB

Apple is accused of limiting its employees from using social media. (photo: dock. apple)

JAKARTA - On October 11, 2024, the US National Labor Relations Council (NLRB) accused Apple Inc. of violating employee rights by limiting the use of Slack messaging applications and social media at work.

These allegations include Apple's ban on the use of Slack to discuss working conditions, illegal dismissal of an employee who advocates for changes in the workplace through Slack, and forcing other employees to delete posts on social media.

This complaint is the second time NLRB has cracked down on Apple in the same month. In the previous week, the company was also accused of requiring employees to sign confidentiality agreements, no competing bans, and implementing social media policies that were considered too broad.

Apple, through a statement provided by a spokesperson, said the company was committed to maintaining a positive and inclusive work environment, and was seriously responding to employee complaints. However, Apple also confirmed that they disagreed with these allegations and would defend themselves in court.

This case originated from a complaint filed in 2021 by Jannekel, an Apple employee who claimed to be fired for playing an active role in fighting for employee rights, including working remotely permanently, conducting wage equality surveys, and disclosing gender and racial discrimination in the workplace. Slack, which is increasingly popular as an internal discussion forum during the COVID-19 pandemic, was used by him to voice his concerns.

NLRB alleges Apple has a policy prohibiting employees from creating new Slack channels without manager's permission, and posts related to workplace issues should be directed to managers or groups "People Support." The complaint also claims that Apple creates the impression that employees are being monitored through social media.

principles penghindarakah, Lauriekah, mengatakan bahwa Apple telah melakukan pelanggaran luas terhadap hak-hak karyawan dan akan ditadilan atas tindakan tersebut. Selain memerintahkan Apple untuk menghapus kebijakan yang dianggap hukum, keluhan ini juga meminta Apple untuk memberikan kompensasi kepada harus atas pendapatan yang hilang dan dampak finansial lainnya akibat pemecatan tersebut.

If Apple does not reach a settlement with the NLRB, the initial hearing of the case will be held in February 2025, and the decision can be reviewed by the labor council and appealed to a federal court.