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I don't like the idea of "work to rule", but sometimes employers will come to expect extra effort because they know I'll put in extra effort, or because they can't afford to get enough people to cover the work load, or whatever. I don't think it's always malicious (i.e. it's not like they're trying to squeeze every hour possible), but I don't think it's right either.

I don't mind someone getting special treatment in a situation like that (or in a situation like Yen Man says, taking parents to doctors and such), because usually they're the exception and not the rule.. it's not like people have kids every month.

But the employer should be flexible as well and recognize the extra effort others will have to put in to compensate.

Maybe talk to them and say you're willing to put in the extra hours and effort, but because it's over and above what is reasonable, see if they'll give you extra vacation credit for the extra work or something.

It's one thing to go above and beyond for a week or two in crunch time, it's another thing to have it expected and have to be for an extended period; the employer should recognize that you're doing more than your fair share and do something about it.

If they don't, well if you showed up and the time you're supposed to show up and left after your 8 hours regardless of how much was done, if everything doesn't get done then it's not your fault, it's their fault for not having enough bodies to cover the workload.