A recent survey indicates a divided response from German businesses regarding proposed changes to working time regulations The study, conducted by Randstad and the Ifo Institute among 538 human resources managers, reveals that approximately half of companies support the government’s plans to shift from daily to weekly maximum working time limits
The primary rationale cited by supportive businesses is increased flexibility Companies already operating under models of flexible working hours, known as ‘trust-based working time’ demonstrate stronger approval – at 60 percent – compared to those with fixed schedules (42 percent)
However, a significant minority, eight percent of respondents, expressed reservations, primarily concerning potential employee strain and complexities in workforce management A further 31 percent indicated a neutral stance, while 11 percent reported the issue as largely irrelevant to their operations
Currently, German law sets daily limits on working hours The proposed shift to weekly maximums aims to offer greater flexibility on individual days This initiative has drawn criticism from labour unions, who voice concerns about potential overwork, increased risk of workplace accidents and a negative impact on work-life balance Unions argue that longer working days could complicate childcare arrangements and potentially exacerbate existing gender inequalities in the workplace There are also fears that the new regulations could be exploited to extend overall working hours