My name is Kiana Ethier - a long time Subway employee. I love my job, co-workers and customers. For this reason I felt it was time I speak out and help end unfair labor practice of employees only given 5 minute breaks when working long shifts. Please read my story and join me in making a difference!   

Subway is a brand built on eating healthy and living well. It is one of the things that made me want to start working there. What I quickly learned after working at several locations was it was a much different story when you were on the other side of the serving counter. Subway Sandwich Artists works a typical shift between 4-9 hours. It's a job that requires you to be on your feet all day and be sure you are giving the guest the best possible service. As with any job, you need a moment to regroup and reenergize - taking a moment to sit and grab a snack or meal.  

At Subway you get one 5 minute break.  

I was sure there must be some Federal laws mandating a minimum time for breaks within a certain amount of hours of work, but found out there is not. In fact, it is left up to the states to decide. Here in South Carolina, where I live and work, 5 minutes is within the law. You only have 5 minutes to eat, use the restroom, and recharge. This is extremely unfair and creates an unhealthy workplace.  

Luckily Subway does not need a law to do the right thing. They can live up to their brand by bringing healthy and wellness best practices to their chain, starting with recommending all franchises give employees a minimum of a 10 minutes break per shift. This will allow your employee to find a few minutes to relax and eat if needed. It will result in better attitudes from staff, which always means happier customers. 

As someone who struggles with an eating disorder, I understand how the lack of break can impact someone. I need a moment to sit and make sure I eat. I need to take a moment to collect myself and focus on my own health needs. Everyone has different needs and the consequences of such short breaks are not good for any workplace.

Please join me in calling for Subway to institute the minimum 10 minute break per shift guidelines for all their franchises. Please sign and share my petition with your friends and family today.   Thank You!