Is it illegal to for a company to tell you you cant talk?

The company I have worked at for the past 3 years just told us that we cannot talk to our co-workers now during our shift. Does this violate the law or break some sort of civil right?

Probably not; terms of employment. Talk to the people at the NLRB.

It is not necessarily illegal but it definitely is not something I could see a reputable company doing.

I can understand asking for a quiet environment to help ensure a high level of production but not to completely ban any talking whatsoever.

That being said, unfortunately, there isn't much that can be done because they would probably just tell you to get another job if you complain.

Sorry!

If they said you can't talk about a Union, that would be a problem, but if they don't want you to talk about sex, religion, or politics, they can do that because those can bring trouble for the company, and in some cases, talking at all constitutes a distraction that could cause safety issues.

Sounds like you have an ****** employer - I work in the law business so communication amongst the employees is paramount. I don't know your situation but, look out, they might bust out a whip next time and beat you. Get a better job if you can..

They are trying to ensure 100% productivity but kind of going about it in a way that will lower morale. But, since they are a private company they probably can set that rule. Doesn't sound like a fun place to work for.

This doesn't really violate any civil rights. It is merely a policy of not talking to fellow employees and there is probably some rationale for it.

No, it means they want you to do your job and not socialize with coworkers on the companies time.

No. They have a right to ask you to focus on your work.

No, it means you have a crap job though.