A sharp increase in sick leave rates at Tesla’s Berlin factory has prompted an unusual response from management. Concerned by a surge in absenteeism, executives took the controversial step of visiting employees’ homes.
The move has sparked significant controversy and criticism, particularly from labour unions, highlighting growing tensions between Tesla management and its workforce.
Reports indicate that Tesla’s Berlin factory experienced a dramatic increase in sick leave rates, soaring from 5.2% in August to 17%, far exceeding the automotive industry average of 5.2% in Germany. The national average across industries stands at 6.1%.
This spike, which presented significant operational challenges for the factory, eventually decreased to 11% in September but remained substantially higher than typical industry rates. The situation has caused concern among Tesla’s management, who suspect abuse of Germany’s sick leave policies by some employees.
In response to the high absenteeism, Managing Director André Thierig and Head of Human Resources Erik Demmler began unannounced visits to the homes of employees on extended sick leave. This initiative has led to confusion and anger among staff, with some reacting by threatening to call the police.
The IG Metall union’s regional head, Dirk Schulze, has condemned the action as “absurd.” Thierig and Demmler defended their actions, arguing that the exceptional sick leave rates necessitated their approach. Thierig suggested that some workers might be exploiting the sick leave laws, while Demmler emphasised that only employees with “relevant abnormalities” in their sick leave patterns were targeted.
Germany’s labour laws provide robust protections for employees, including up to six weeks of paid sick leave and four weeks of paid annual leave. Yet, workers at Tesla’s Berlin factory have reported feeling overworked and stressed, according to reviews on platforms such as Glassdoor and Indeed.
Complaints have been raised regarding long hours, poor communication, and insufficient transparency from management. Employees have expressed frustration with the difficulties in escalating workplace issues, contributing to the strained atmosphere and possibly influencing the surge in sick leaves.
Tesla’s decision to conduct home visits, while not illegal, has garnered widespread criticism from both the media and labour unions. Business Insider reports that Elon Musk has committed to investigating the incident, reflecting the significant backlash.
These home visits underline the increasing tensions between Tesla’s management and its workforce as the company struggles with absenteeism and workplace challenges. It is uncertain if this practice will continue or if further investigations will prompt a change in the company’s approach to managing sick leave.
Tesla’s aggressive measures to address rising sick leave rates at its Berlin factory have ignited considerable controversy and criticism.
The future of such practices remains uncertain as the company faces scrutiny and potential policy reevaluation.
