A light-hearted post circulating online has sparked laughter — and debate — over a cheeky claim that using the toilet during office hours counts as “passive income”. The viral line, shared, quickly drew hundreds of comments from workers who jokingly declared that bathroom breaks are simply part of the employment package.
One commenter summed it up with a rhyme that has since been widely repeated: “Boss makes a dollar, I make a dime — that’s why I poop on company time.” Others admitted they intentionally wait until they reach the office before answering nature’s call, arguing that if they are paid by the hour, then every minute counts.
While the tone of the discussion was humorous, it has quietly raised questions about workplace culture, employee rights and productivity in modern offices. In Singapore’s fast-paced corporate environment, where long working hours are common, the topic struck a relatable chord with many netizens.
Workplace Rights And Toilet Breaks In Singapore
Under Singapore’s employment regulations, there is no specific rule limiting reasonable toilet breaks during working hours. Employers are generally expected to provide access to proper restroom facilities as part of basic workplace health and safety standards. Denying employees the ability to use the toilet when necessary could raise serious human resource and workplace compliance concerns.
Human resource experts note that short breaks — whether for coffee, stretching or restroom visits — can actually improve employee productivity. Research into corporate wellness programmes suggests that allowing staff small, necessary pauses helps maintain focus and reduces burnout. In industries where staff are desk-bound for long hours, encouraging healthy habits may even lower long-term medical insurance claims linked to digestive health or stress-related conditions.
That said, excessive time away from workstations can affect overall performance. Some companies track productivity metrics closely, especially in sectors such as financial services, insurance sales and technology support, where billable hours matter. Striking a balance between employee wellbeing and operational efficiency remains key.
Productivity, Humour And Modern Office Culture
The viral discussion also reflects a broader shift in workplace attitudes. Younger employees increasingly emphasise work-life balance and mental health awareness. Jokes about “being paid to poop” highlight how workers view compensation not just in salary terms, but in how their time is valued.
In reality, bathroom breaks are a normal biological need, not a productivity loophole. Health professionals recommend not delaying bowel movements for extended periods, as doing so may lead to digestive issues such as constipation or haemorrhoids — conditions that could eventually require medical treatment or even minor surgery.
For employers in Singapore navigating competitive labour markets, maintaining a supportive office culture can be as important as offering competitive salaries, performance bonuses or corporate insurance coverage. Sometimes, the smallest workplace policies — even unspoken ones about restroom use — reveal much about company values.
What began as a viral joke may not change corporate policy overnight. However, it has certainly opened up a conversation about dignity at work, basic human needs and how humour often highlights deeper truths about modern employment.