- Work Policy During Wildfires: TikTok employees in LA must either work remotely or use personal/sick leave if unable to do so, despite widespread power outages and evacuation orders caused by devastating wildfires.
- Disconnection Between Policy and Crisis: While the company provides mental health resources and emphasizes employee safety, its leave policies leave staff with fewer days for future emergencies, adding stress during an already challenging time.
- Criticism Over Response: Internal communications show a “business-as-usual” approach, with managers requesting updates from employees without power, highlighting a perceived lack of empathy and support from leadership during the crisis.
Wildfires in the Los Angeles area have devastated over 45 square miles, destroyed more than 1,300 structures, and forced nearly 180,000 people to evacuate. Amid this chaos, TikTok’s LA-based employees are navigating a challenging directive: continue working from home or use personal and sick days if remote work is not possible. The company’s Culver City office remains closed due to power outages, but the expectation of uninterrupted work persists despite the worsening conditions.
The proximity of the Palisades Fire has made the situation dire for many TikTok employees, with smoke visible from the office windows. Although the office itself is not under evacuation orders, power outages and other wildfire-related disruptions affect the homes of many employees. Some may even be under their own evacuation mandates, compounding the difficulties of maintaining productivity during a regional crisis.
TikTok’s internal communication indicates that employees unable to work remotely due to power or internet outages must rely on their personal or sick leave. This policy poses significant challenges, as employees are left with fewer days to address future illnesses or emergencies. For those already grappling with power loss or hazardous air quality, this directive adds unnecessary stress. Employees who can work remotely are required to update their status in the company’s portal, ensuring they are not penalized, though this offers little solace for those in dire circumstances.
The company has shared resources like mental health support and Employee Assistance Programs, emphasizing safety and well-being in its messages. However, these gestures appear at odds with the reality of expecting employees to use their limited leave or continue working amidst the chaos. Some internal communications have focused on maintaining “business as usual,” with managers seeking updates from employees without power, further highlighting the disconnect.
Despite its assurances, TikTok has faced criticism for its handling of the situation. While a spokesperson emphasized flexibility and support, employee reports suggest otherwise, with HR communications underscoring the use of personal leave for wildfire-related disruptions. The company’s response, including a new feature alerting teams when screenshots of internal messages are taken, has only heightened concerns about transparency and accountability during this crisis.
