Labor unions are calling for stricter enforcement and potential reforms regarding worker protection from heat stress in workplaces across Germany.
Hans-Jürgen Urban, Social Director of IG Metall, expressed concern that while existing regulations regarding employee heat protection in offices and factories appear sufficient on paper, many businesses are failing to implement the required safety measures in practice. He noted a greater degree of compliance within workplaces that have employee representation, suggesting a need for intensified oversight and heavier penalties for non-compliant employers. Urban emphasized the responsibility of occupational safety authorities and insurance bodies to address the issue.
Verdi, another prominent labor union, is advocating for a revision of workplace regulations to improve worker safety during periods of extreme heat. Markus Nöthen, Verdi’s Head of Work and Health Protection, argued that a legal amendment, specifically targeting the workplace regulations, would contribute to a broader improvement in the situation for employees.
However, Nöthen dismissed proposals for a “heat pay” initiative, asserting that existing labor protection laws already establish obligations for employers. He suggested alternative solutions such as adjusting work hours to earlier in the morning, providing shading and making cool drinks – particularly water – readily accessible. He further questioned whether shifting the financial burden of protective measures onto the broader community and social security systems is appropriate when employers are failing to fulfill their existing legal obligations.