Falsification of working hours in Carinthian transport companies
vida demands complete clarification of the role of the employer in the falsification of working hours in Carinthian transport companies.
Falsification of working hours
A new scandal is shaking the transport industry in Central Carinthia: At a transport company, the legally required rest time records were systematically manipulated. More than 20 of the 50 employees are said to be affected. The trade union vida is alarmed and demands comprehensive clarification of the role of the employer.
Taking occupational health and safety seriously – human lives are at stake
"This is not a trivial offense, but in the worst case endangers human lives," says Markus Petritsch, chairman of the road department in the trade union vida, indignantly. It makes it clear that not only the drivers, but also all other road users are exposed to considerable dangers due to such manipulations.
Employees are presumably also victims
"This disregard for employee protection provisions primarily serves the economic interests of the employer."
Petritsch points out that the employees concerned in this case must not only be regarded as defendants. "This disregard for employee protection provisions primarily serves the economic interests of the employer. The drivers are under enormous pressure and often have little choice," emphasizes Petritsch.
Trade union vida calls for increased controls
The manipulations show a general problem in the industry. The Working Hours Act stipulates that in a 17-week reference period, the average total working time may not exceed 48 hours. This requirement is based on the EU Working Time Directive. "Of course, compliance cannot simply be checked during a traffic check. That is why increased controls by the labour inspectorate are essential," Petritsch demands.
This would not have happened with the works council
"The company has enough employees to set up a works council. With local employee representation, such a practice would most likely have been prevented."
The trade union vida is certain: A works council could have counteracted such abuses. "The company has enough employees to set up a works council. With employee representation on site, such a practice would most likely have been prevented," explains Florian Klengl, the responsible vida expert.
vida therefore demands not only a complete clarification of this case, but also structural measures to prevent manipulation of working hours in the future. These include stricter controls, more effective protection for employees and a strengthening of company co-determination.
Report illegal practices
If you are affected yourself or know of such illegal practices, please contact us at any time and, of course, in the strictest confidence. On the one hand, we can provide legal advice and, of course, also provide support in ending the grievances in the company.
