MI - Should we be paid for training?

[MIBLUECOLLAR]

Hello:

We are part of a collective bargaining agreement in michigan - construction field. Our employer has advised us that we are required to study and test online for safety training modules on our own time - unpaid. They also advised us that if the required amount of modules were not completed by their deadline we could be terminated. Is this legal? Should we be getting paid for safety training?

thanks!

[Pattymd]

The studying can legally be on your own time. However, my opinion would be that the actual taking of the test should be compensated, because this is a required duty. However, you can legally be fired if you do not complete these tests. You can contact the state Dept. of Labor to confirm.