a quick reminder for anyone working in a California warehouse:
if you're putting on your gear before you clock in → that's work time.
if you're waiting in a mandatory security line after your shift → that's work time.
if you're doing a safety briefing before your official start → that's work time.
california rejected the "it's too short to count" argument back in 2018. the law is clear: if it benefits your employer and you're required to do it, it should be paid.
document it. write down dates, times, tasks. save texts. compare your records to your pay stubs.
most wage claims need to be filed within 3 years (and sometimes 4) — so starting your records now matters.
you're not being dramatic. your time is valuable and the law says so.