Oncall Applies In Both Directions

Most products do not fail at convenent times. So most SAs will find themselves carrying a pager for an oncall shift. I have one major rule that says “oncall applies in both directions” and no one ever understands what I mean (so it probably needs a new name). Here is what I mean.

Oncall Is an Intrusion

Being paged to fix a problem at work is an intrusion on you private life. And in most cases it is considered “part of the job” and doesn’t garner any additional compensation. But it really is worth more than your normal work – it’s an emergency. And an interruption. And involves more work (finding a computer, finding a network, establishing a VPN, etc). Companies generally do not acknowledge this fact.

Intrusions Happen at Work, Too

If your work is allowed to intrude on your life, then your life is allowed to intrude on your work. Plumbers must be let in, packages received, recitals attended, and almost always during business hours. And if your job caused you to miss four hours of sleep last night, then I don’t really want you touching production machines – better to sleep in and come to work with a sharp mind.
It’s basic work/life balance – remind your boss (and HR) if (s)he balks.