Workplace drama often unfolds in the most unexpected ways.

This man was working on-site during an unusual incident involving police and fire crews next door.

He witnessed a manager trying to control employees who were on their lunch break.

One worker’s clever and calm response shut the situation down quickly.

Read the full story below for all the details.

“You can’t do that on your own time!”

I am an in-house field IT tech responsible for several sites.

One of my sites yesterday had some interesting events at the business next door.

This included police, fire, and news presence.

The manager on duty ran through the site and told everyone in uniform that they “have no comment.”

This man joined the crowd.

You’re not my boss, but whatever.

I don’t wanna be on the news anyways.

Once finished, I bring my tools out to my van and join the crowd of people looking from a safe distance.

Some of which are store employees on their lunch break.

Manager comes out and tries to break up the crowd.

Their manager ordered one of his colleagues to get back to the office.

One of the associates responds with, “I’m on my lunch. I’m not on the clock.”

Manager snaps back with, “You’re wearing the uniform, so you represent the company!”

Associate takes off his shirt and puts it in his lunch bag. “Satisfied?”

Manager is fuming. “My office… now!”

The employee threatened to call the shop steward.

Associate has a calm response.

“Do you want to call the shop steward or should I?”

This is a union shop, obviously.

Manager huffs and storms away.

Let’s check out the comments on this story.

This user shares their personal thoughts.

This one is curious about what happened next door.

Short and simple.

Finally, this person gives their honest opinion.

Sometimes, knowing your rights is the best way to stay in control.

And sharing is caring.

If you liked that post, check out this post about a woman who tracked down a contractor who tried to vanish without a trace.